reparations are due

Regarding “S.F. reparations task force soon to begin work” (Front Page, May 4»: To the “nearly twothirds of Americans and 90% of Republicans” who oppose the idea of providing reparations to our Black neighbors, let this white guy point out the obvious lesson taught by “Rally set after Black student accused of theft” (May 5). As long as a Black fifthgrader can be perceived as a sandwich stealer by Safeway security, despite showing his receipt of purchase, reparations are due to his community. To coin a phrase, consider that the cost of doing systemic racism.

Stefan Gruenwedel, San Francisco