by Carly Mack

Created on: January 15, 2009   Last Updated: March 19, 2009

The article you are about to read will probably be unpopular. It is a point of view that is shared by many but likley to be reviled by more. It speaks predominately to a race within a race, a culture within a culture. It is my hope that rather than offend, it will cause serious reflection and that readers will realize and understand the passion and conviction of these words. It is how and why I say, Unequivocally, NO in answer to this racially motivated topic.

The descendants of slavery have received restitution, in the form of freedom and opportunity. Expecting anything more shows a lack of pride and appreciation for their struggle and sacrifice of those before them and an absolute ignorance of the true meaning of that struggle. The search for a big, fat check or free ride through life is the very mentality that fills prisons to capacity and the streets with drugs. It is appalling and without basis that blacks today feel helpless and persecuted or owed apologies and restitution.

This country was built on the struggles, blood and sweat of ALL its people, not just blacks. Many races and people have been treated unfairly by this county's governing body. I will not apologize for the people who advocated slavery four lifetimes ago, nor will I pretend that the freedoms of a black man are more precious than my own. I prefer to live in the here and now, to press forward toward a better future and equality for all. I am one quarter Cherokee... so what? I have no desire to collect on the misery of my ancestors from a country and people that no longer exists.

What do the blacks of today know of slavery in real terms? What have they endured that would justify compensation? They have the same freedoms as do all Americans. They have the same advantages and in many cases, better opportunities due to the lopsided principals of reverse discrimination and minority rules. I do not begrudge that, however, I do take offense that such considerations are so readily discounted and often abused. The attitude that blacks are somehow owed to the point where certain benefits are assumed and taken for granted is nothing short of arrogant. Everyone in this country has the same opportunity and tools available in order to achieve success. It is unclear to me why many blacks feel they are entitled to a larger cut of pie. The slavery "ticket" is no longer valid. Anyone, black, white or otherwise, who considers themselves to have a right to payment for the work and sacrifices of another is without

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