White privilege?

I was happy to read that city leaders condemned the armed citizens who have stood guard outside businesses during the Black Lives Matter protests, calling them “armed vigilantes.” Several business owners have also complained about their presence. It doesn’t appear that any business has asked for armed militia members to guard their establishment. However, officials have said there is little they can do to remove armed people from the street because Washington permits the open carrying of firearms.

I wonder if the same policy would be followed if the men carrying assault-style rifles were African American. Can you say white privilege?

Mary L. Vanderwal

Spokane