Ever since I learned that Corey Ruiz was shot and killed by a Madison Police officer while trying to apprehend him on July 22^nd, my mind has been preoccupied with all of the issues and feelings and angst that ripple out from those few moments when the actual act occurred.

My mind has been on overdrive, consciously and subconsciously, trying to absorb it all and trying to figure out how The Hues — with a staff of basically one — could be relevant as a small fish in a relatively large pond. And then again, The Hues has to be what it is, an African American, Latine, Asian American and Euro-American owned, written and read newspaper. And so it is from the community that we absorb and reflect on Corey Ruiz and the tragedy that has unfolded.

To understand Corey, I tried to get interviews with people who were close to him including his mom. But Ben Crump, the esteemed civil rights lawyer, — and most governmental sources —basically shut everything down in terms of gaining a greater understanding of the humanity of those involved. It has been reported that Corey had a rap sheet that included resisting arrest. Corey is no choir boy, but who is he?

I pray that Corey’s family is surrounded by loving and caring people beyond the legal system. I am not complaining about the lawyers who represent them. But the family needs nurturing beyond what any legal settlement can provide them. They are in my — and countless other’s — prayers as they navigate this most painful and what seems like an endless time in their lives.

In an interview that took place a couple of weeks ago, Madison Common Council President Sabrina Madison talked about members of her family experiencing homelessness and mental health issues, similar to what Corey experienced. It gave me insight into these issues that me or mine have not experienced. And it does reflect on the life that Corey Ruiz experienced here in Madison. That article is in The Hues.