Unrest in the black community

The arrest of John Wyche for allegedly misusing nearly $500,000 has got leaders in the black community nervous. Though some will admit off the record that Wyche maybe a crook, there still is fear that the black leaders are being targeted. There is “circle the wagons” mentality developing.

The arrests of Hugh King, Thelma Manley, Darnell Sims, John Wyche and OJ Rembert appear to be justified. However,fear and distrust is permeating the African-American community.

The easy response is – well, if you aren’t doing anything wrong, then you shouldn’t have to worry. However, the reality is there is a history of racial attacks on the black community and though they were decades ago, the memories still exist.

Manley, Sims, Wyche and Rembert will have their days in court. This may be the time for a community summit to talk out some of the issues and challenges facing minorities in our community.

Share:

Author: Rick Outzen

Rick Outzen is the publisher/owner of Pensacola Inweekly. He has been profiled in The New York Times and featured in several True Crime documentaries. Rick also is the author of the award-winning Walker Holmes thrillers. His latest nonfiction book is “Right Idea, Right Time: The Fight for Pensacola’s Maritime Park.”