I have been casually following the riots in France. It puzzles me (not really) as why so many Americans (mostly white that I’ve talked to) seem to be so surprised by the social outrage that has burst out violently by these people. They seem most surprised that it could have happened in France because, with them being European, they are more civilized. Many people I’ve talked to were not aware of the large numbers of people who live, work, contribute to and die in French society but are very much swept under the rug. There can be no greater snub than to strive neck-and-neck with your fellow man and not be able receive equal recognition and representation. I can only hope that as this plays out the damaage is kept to a minimum (especially loss of life).