Objective articulation of an argument and researched discourse is a fare rarely served on Medium. Far too often the diatribe served is infected with a vitriol that evokes indigestion.

Your essay and the worthy, articulated responses of the opinions of many, such as Galvinmike and McKenna Wilkinson along with your rebuttals make for a feast to the readers on Medium.

As the French would say - 'Chapeau!'

The issue of the slavery practiced in the southern United States, in centuries past, is as abhorrent as that which has occurred through millennia across a bounty of nations and cultures. Sadly the abuse of others, whether assigned a lower value by race, religion, or absurd proclamation, is not unique to any particular society. It is a travesty of the human condition which continues across the world to this day.

Often the discourse and lines of clear understanding surrounding America's history of slavery and of racism as it surfaces in current society are blurred. This lack of rational specificity is employed by some, with less honorable agendas, for personal gain and perhaps notoriety.

By no means do I suggest this is your intention. No means.

However aspiring politicians, righteous individuals and zealots are too eager to misrepresent or selectively advance arguments to elicit support and accolades.

Your essay and the comments by the above named individuals give creedance to the concept of Medium as a platform of mutual respect, polite discourse and worthy thought.

It would be illuminating if yourself and the above, who hold partially contrary opinions, were to have an open discussion linked to each other. Perhaps if it were to be debated in a series of posts it would surely be beneficial to many.

I applaud your thoughts. I do not wholeheartedly agree with all of them, but do not dismiss your right to have them.

One last thought provoked by your essay might be; Tolerance need not be seen as precipitating to blind compliance, so too intentional ignorance does not absolve one's culpability.

Thank you for your fine article and the respectful rebuttal you provided to those who took the time to comment. KF