An American Summer: Love and Death in Chicago

by Alex Kotlowitz

“The violence damages cops just like it damages anyone else who has to watch it day in, day out.” He comes to see how the violence has dented everyone it touches.

The thing about Chicago’s violence is it’s public—very public—and so each shooting or its aftermath is witnessed by many, children and adults alike. I’ve met kids who have flashbacks or are easily startled or have trouble sleeping.

felony marks one for life. In some states you lose your right to vote. For certain felonies you can’t receive federal loans for college and are barred from federally funded housing. You can’t legally buy a firearm. In many states you can’t get a license to become a realtor or stockbroker or nurse or teacher. You can’t work in child care. Potential employers can lawfully refuse employment if you have a felony on your record. It’s permanent.

“What you’re going to see here is desperation, without real hope. How do you operate with individuals who don’t operate from a vantage point of hope?”