One thing is for certain: Marion Barry truly reflects the values, attitudes and criminal history of his constituents. There is no doubt about that. I hope he accomplishes everything he hopes for for his Ward: black-only-run and staffed hospitals, black-only-owned and operated stores, scaled back MPD presence, and a rock in every pot.
We have our own “Marion Barry” here in Norfolk, VA. His name is Paul Riddick. He’s recently been under investigation for failure to pay taxes (I think employees’ withholding) for a number of years. He’s one big crook, but his Ward keeps reelecting him.
Years ago, I worked for a background screening company. Students, who were enrolled in a community college program to get a degree in a nursing program, were required at some point to pay for a background screening. I overheard some phone calls where the students were informed that having a felony conviction disqualified them from ever getting a job in the medical field. I could hear their screaming and crying and it was heartbreaking that they finally were getting their life in order and crimes from their past caught up with them. I remember one girl was pleading and sobbing, “I paid my dues” and was firmly told, “I am sorry”. With these calls and others for similar jobs, there was a lot of cursing from the students or prospective employees, with many speaking ebonics.
Maybe that accounts for the influx of Filipino nurses who QUALIFY for the positions.