I am very impressed with the faith community of Richmond for taking a visible lead in bringing civility back to the City of Richmond. In the article it stated that a rainbow of people participated in the 7 minutes of prayer and the gathering at the City Hall. Knowing Richmond’s reputation, new people who have chosen to live in Richmond because they believe in the rainbow ideals and want to live with people of all races. Nonetheless, they did not choose to live with violence and young people killing themselves and innocent bystanders.

We have a rich Black culture here that can enrich all of us. Still we are denied it because of the violence and the fear, real and imagined, of going into some neighborhoods. Most of the Bay Area sidesteps the whole city because of the violence and makes us all the poorer.

What I am most concerned about is the segregation that results. Not knowing each other, not shopping together, not being part of each others’ lives breeds distrust, dislike, and lack of cooperation in dealing with citywide issues of jobs, the environment, casinos, toxins, etc.

Perhaps now we have a chance to become a community due to the faith community.

I hope from his example that more small quality places emerge.