La-Shanda’s Reviews > A mer[e] I CAN is AMERICAN > Status Update

The church has and possibly will be at the heart of the community. It builds characteristics of a good person. From Chapter 6, “The Pastor is Human” reminds me of a question I ponder as a child but was too afraid to ask. If God loves everyone, why are some people not welcomed to worship in the house of the lord? The author noted, our political views and social views are tied to what was preached from the pulpit.

Chapter 5 “Food For The Soul” reminded me about how socioeconomically challenged families received government cheese. I could visually see this huge big block of cheese. As in the book, it was best served as a grill cheese sandwich or Mac and Cheese. This chapter also touched upon HIV/AIDS and its misconceptions. The epidemic plagued communities of color and the lack of real knowledge about transmission.

Powerful and impactful words, “I am American”, as such I have the unalienable right to be treated as a human with dignity and respect. The education system failed Kionne by creating “prison like” classrooms. The social worker wasn’t an “advocate” or fulfilled the duties as a “trusted adult”. What is the solution when dealing with “at-risk” youth?

Growing up in Naranja is a tale of two stories. Author Kionne McGhee was exposed to the hardship of drugs, gun violence, and other obstacles. On the other side of the tracks, I lived in “Rainbow City”. From government housing to violence in the community, the impact is everlasting. Naranja Elementary was known for disruptive behaviors, as a student, Kionne added to the cycle. We experienced similar realities.