Article published May 10, 2002
Clinton's offer to Cincinnati
Why shouldn't Bill Clinton offer the city of Cincinnati his assistance in easing relations between whites and minorities? The former president is willing to help however he can, and it's appropriate that Cincinnati Mayor Charlie Luken is interested.
Cincinnati's tense racial issues were reignited last year when riots broke out after a young black man was fatally shot by a white police officer as he was running from the officer. The shooting followed other police shootings of black male residents in Cincinnati. Representatives from the African-American and white communities tried to foster an accord after the riots. Although hostilities have eased somewhat, friction remains.
Mr. Clinton indicated last weekend he'd be willing, if invited, to visit the Ohio city to try to foster more harmony.
Mayor Luken, also a Democrat, says he'll contact the former president. It can't hurt for the mayor to at least investigate to see whether it's worthwhile to take advantage of Mr. Clinton's popularity among African-Americans. At this point in Cincinnati's history, he couldn't make matters worse.
The racial tension in Cincinnati is decades old and undoubtedly won't be erased by one visit from Bill Clinton. But if he can help bridge the racial gap even a little, why shouldn't he get the chance?
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