Madison vs. Ferguson: Contrast of Community in the Face of Tragedy

Soapbox moment:

I have been closely monitoring the media coverage, community & activist attitudes, and the reaction of the Madison police and city regarding the shooting of Tony Robinson.  There are comparisons being made between Madison and Ferguson that are entirely misplaced.  Here's why:

• Wisconsin is one of only two states that mandates the investigation of any police-involved shooting by an outside agency
• The Robinson family has taken an active role in promoting open dialogue and patience while the investigation is conducted
• Police Chief Koval's leadership has been embraced by Black community leaders and the Robinson family itself

Madison is not perfect. We have serious social cleavages and the problem of discrimination against minorities, among other issues, that deserve attention.  We have started a dialogue and we are taking steps toward improving our community.  Inflammatory, uninformed rhetoric has no place in this discussion from either side.  It works against progress, not for it.

Ferguson and Madison are both being exposed for the cities they are.  I cannot speak for Ferguson but I am proud of the Madison community and city leaders for showing the country how a *community* should handle a tragedy: by fostering a positive environment for dialogue and working to identify the root causes, then working towards a solution.

The biggest difference between Ferguson and Madison?  Ferguson is being pulled further apart by tragedy; Madison is being brought closer together.  Make no mistake, progress is slow and difficult but, from what I have seen, Madison is resolute in its vision of a better city.  It is our duty as citizens to facilitate the changes necessary to make a better city, a more cohesive community between races and cultures.