Trayvon Martin was the dark child in a gated community. He died only because of this. Privileged space and cock of the walk stand your ground vigilante stalking came together in one terrible moment. Martin’s killer has been set free because the prosecution couldn’t prove who hit who first–as though murder is not much more than a school yard affair. In the end, the Libertarians got what they wanted: a pure defense of gated property and the rights of said property’s defenders to behave in whatever ways they wish.
Public space is always provisional for people with disabilities. I’ve been shut out of many places because I travel with a guide dog–have endured the icy stares of the privileged who didn’t like the fact I was bringing my dog to the opera or the executive suite. Privileged space is the new American Express Card. “Don’t leave home without it.” “You better know where you’re walking sir. You can’t go over there, sir, dogs aren’t allowed; black children aren’t allowed; educated women aren’t allowed; tampons aren’t allowed.”
Privileged space and security guards go hand in hand. And with the travesty of justice in Sanford, Florida we’re told that anyone can be a security guard. And anyone can be gunned down.
Planet of the Blind 