predominantly white community where resources are plentiful, and overflowing–which had further prompted people to believe this narrative of entrapment.
Of course, social media played a huge part in the discussion forum surrounding this event, and layers were peeled off as opinions turned into hate, and passion turned into anger.
Some argued that entrapment involves coercion, as it is defined as the “action of tricking someone into committing a crime in order to secure a prosecution.” The Chicago Police department is standing behind their tactics, even though releasing a public apology. It is true: No one was forced to steal. However, the circumstances of those who live in the low-income community, speak to a different level by suggesting that placing this bait truck there was a “trick” in itself.
So, why the outrage?
Black and brown boys from the hungriest parts of Chicago wake up on survival mode every day because they lack resources that should be given to them, naturally. If you don’t know what it’s like to be a black and brown boy from these types of communities; to be starved in more ways than one: financially, mentally, emotionally and educationally, then it is hard to speak on whether or not you agree with this concept of entrapment.
Most people argued that despite a lack of resources, morals should override desperation–that stealing is still wrong, and unethical. There is a saying, adapted from a Cherokee prayer, Moccasins, that reads:
Oh Great Spirit, grant that I may never