Something to Think About . . .

Five souls go missing in the deep Atlantic, and the world rallies, confirming our view that the value of life is beyond limits. Technology, aircraft and shipping resources were put to use in a concerted effort to find and rescue these explorers. Media coverage has been constant and intensive throughout the effort. That’s inspiring.

Meanwhile, hundreds of people are at similar risk on the Mediterranean, fleeing oppression and danger in flimsy, overcrowded boats. Many die without aid, and the losses continue, largely ignored by the same interests that came together so valiantly to address the [Titanic exploration submersible] event. Children starve in great numbers across Africa and the Middle East, with little public or media response.

Apparently what we really value is drama and excitement, not human life. Put yourself at risk in an expensive, dangerous and completely unnecessary adventure, and society will spare no expense to correct your mistake. They will pray earnestly for your survival. Suffer due to being born in the wrong place, and you are on your own. Good luck.

– Tom Dewey
Letter to the Editor
Star Tribune (Minneapolis)
June 25, 2023

Related Off-site Links:
A Titanic Disparity in How the World Responds to Maritime Disasters – Amy Goodman and Denis Moynihan (Democracy Now, June 22, 2023).
When the Rich Get a Global Rescue Mission and the Drowning Poor Get . . . Nothing – Dan La Botz (Common Dreams, June 23, 2023).
As Media Spotlights Titanic Sub, Hundreds of Migrants Who Died in Greek Shipwreck Get Scant Coverage – Democracy Now! (June 23, 2023).

See also the previous Wild Reed posts:
• A Prayer for Refugees
• Fasting, Praying, and Walking for Immigration Reform
• Reflections on Babel and the “Borders Within”
• Rallying in Solidarity with the Refugees of Syria and the World
• Demanding Justice and Embodying Compassion for Separated Families
• Letting Them Sit By Me
• Vanessa Redgrave: “Just Being Alive, Staying Human, I Think That’s Infinitely Precious”
• Something to Think About – July 10, 2018
• Thoughts on the Titanic Centenary