It’s not uncommon to hear an American citizen question the justice system and how well it works. One of the frustrating things about the American justice system is the duality that it seems to operate under.
Kyle Rittenhouse will not face charges in the shooting of Anthony Huber and Joseph Rosenbaum. The fatal shooting took place on August 25th of 2020 and at the time Rittenhousewas 17 years old. The charges that Rittenhouse house faced were First Degree Intentional Homicide, Attempted First Degree International Homicide and First Degree Reckless Homicide. This was also just a few months after the tragic death of George Floyd. At the height of unrest, with emotions and injustice blairing, Kyle Rittenhouse reported to Kenosha, Wisconsin “to render aid” and “help” protect businesses from rioters.
Details That Matter:
It was testified that the men who Rittenhouse murdered and injured were aggressors. However, one could question the motive for his presence in Kenosha that drove him to carry a semi-automatic weapon. Its worth mentioning that Kyle himself was not yet legally able to purchase the weapon during the time. Ask yourself a few questions. Could the murder have been avoided? Let’s address the elephant in the room. If Kyle Rittenhouse were Black, would he be accquited today?
Duality of The Justice System :
The justice system doesn’t work equally for everyone. In this case, the judge and jury deemed self defense a viable reason for murder. Why then are so many Black and Brown individuals sentenced to prison regardless of their attempt to defend themselves?
A report in The National Center for Biotechnology Information shows Florida had an increase of 24-45% in gun violence that was directly related to self defense claims. Additionally, it has been common for White Americans to use the claim of self defense. while African Americans and other minorities are often less successful doing so.
Today, the verdict in the Kyle Rittenhouse trial shows the duality and the complexity of the American justice system. Although days like today may put a damper in the hopes for change, faith, activists and those committed to change provide us solace.
