Dylann Roof, 21, a resident of Lexington, SC entered Emanuel AME church with a firearm the evening of Wednesday, June 17. Eye witnesses reported the suspect stood up to proclaim his intentions: “to shoot black people.”

According to Bipartisan Report, a political news source and data gatherer, 87% of mass-shootings are committed by Caucasian males aged 13-56. Is this just a coincidence or something more prevalent in modern day society? Is the rotating question about racism relevant to the act of Roof? His alleged statement seems to justify the answer.

It is truly unfortunate we live in such a forward country that has such backward ideas of freedom. Racism, bigotry, and white supremacy continue to flood the country many blacks call home.

What’s more sickening is police officials reaction and way of handling the suspect. It is not wise to generalize an entire group of people, however if police can arrest an armed terrorist without killing him, there is simply no justification for killing any suspect.

Furthermore, coverage of the incident proves there is a racial double standard in America. Roof had been arrested twice prior to the shooting for trespassing and for possessing drugs. He was also seen wearing racist apparel. Several news sources stated he was said to be “quiet and soft-spoken.” America will not progress until something is done about the excessive amount of hate that resides in our country.

Deepest condolences go out to the victims and relatives of the Charleston shooting.