‘I could not do the same things my white brother could do’
Chris O'Conner
Christopher O’Conner is founder and CEO of the production company Prodigi Arts, based in Memphis, Nashville and Los Angeles.
Chris O'Conner learned at a young age that he and his best friend couldn't play with the same toys. One that looked like a knife "could cost little black boys their life."
Related stories
Ben Johnson knows of racial prejudice, but believes America can do better
The son of a black mother and a white father, Memphis Redbirds manager Ben Johnson grew up in Whitehaven and Germantown with a foot in both worlds. Even after recent events in Minneapolis, he hasn't lost hope for a more civilized America.
Why protest? Recent killings resonate powerfully with black Memphians
Critics point out that these tragedies occurred outside of Memphis. They also complain that activists should focus on issues such as joblessness, educational deficits and crime. But in times of crisis, public protest is essential.
‘I was white and it came with many privileges’
Lifelong best friends Zach Waters and Chris O'Conner are the same age and went to the same schools, but remember gradually discovering that one of them had to live more cautiously for a reason that confounded them.
Comments
Want to comment on our stories? If you’re a subscriber, scroll down to the comments. If you’re not a subscriber, only paid subscribers can add their thoughts, so subscribe now. Our commenting policy can be viewed here.