Profiling and prejudice

Sat., Dec. 3, 2011

I never knew Otto Zehm but I’ve always thought about the sad way his life ended. It’s scary for me! Why? Because I’ve chosen to go through life with a quite similar appearance. You know, long hair, beard, scruffy looking! I’ve kept this appearance over half of my 60-year life! Has its ups and downs, as Otto sadly learned.

I wish I could ask Otto one last question – the same question I would ask all the officers who saluted their comrade after his conviction!

That question is: Do you think the practice of profiling and prejudice is still a much-used force in our society?

Pretty sure of what Otto would have said. Before he went into the convenience store. My wife and I face it every day from our families, supposed friends, and a lot of this society.

My thoughts, prayers and best wishes go out to the Zehm family.

Jim and Deb Peterson

Chewelah, Wash.

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