My life has been made up of stories. As a small child I sat under the ironing board while Sirreaner ironed and told me stories of her life and answered all my nosy questions about sex and growing up. I felt safe and captivated by the descriptions that only she would share with me.
My mother told me stories about her life growing up in pre-WWII New York in an indulged home cared for by a nasty governess. Her stories reminded me of scary fairy tales with mean witches and a rigid set of rules and punishments.
My name is Rolondo Talbott and I am a member of the Claremont Police Commission. Just like many of you, these past several weeks have proven to be trying and emotional as I grapple with the senseless murder of George Floyd, and those before and after, whose lives ended tragically at the hands of police officers. I say unequivocally and without hesitation or mental reservation that All Black Lives Matter—I matter.
My father once told me you really get to know someone not when times are good, but during times of challenge. That’s certainly the case with the COURIER, as readers continue to subscribe, advertise and donate in support of our local news coverage. It’s been quite telling to see the depth in which supporters choose to help.
On June 2, Claremont Unified School District Superintendent Jim Elsasser sent a note to all district families that provided a cautionary glimpse into the future.
He wrote, “Simply put, we are told we could be facing the largest cut to education funding in a single year in the history of California.” There may be more government funding on the horizon to offset the cuts, but this is also an opportunity for our community to get involved.
As we witness events unique for this generation, I cannot help but feel Americans need to show the world how we can bridge our differences and unite as a nation.
On Wednesday, I watched 500 people march to the Claremont police station and peacefully, passionately express their views on police brutality. They joined groups all over the nation doing the same thing.
Claremont Courier on Social Media