Re Column “We must invest in ourselves,” Free Press March 28-30 edition:

While I can agree with Dr. Ravi K. Perry’s assertion that the state of Richmond Public Schools reflects years of racist policies, I do not agree with his solution.

I would be willing to contribute more tax dollars if I could be assured that my money would be well spent. But I have no reason to believe that it will.

When I read about the cost overruns for new school construction and the accounting errors at City Hall, I am left to wonder if anyone Downtown can add or subtract. Moreover, a school system that awards diplomas to children who fail to meet attendance or credit requirements and encourages cheating on SOLs (Carver Elementary School) does not inspire confidence in their stewardship.

I will offer two suggestions:

First, that the African-American population leverage its voting strength and insist that the Democratic Party address in its platform the state’s formula for distribution of education dollars.

Secondly, insist that the state allow the city to tax the state properties for the millions of dollars of real estate that the city cannot collect on.

If ever there was a time to influence an election, it would be the impending state contests in 2019.

Let the Democrats know you will stay home or vote Republican if they do not agree to support these changes. The Democrats cannot win without the black vote, and this would be the time to flex that muscle.

If the minstrel in the Governor’s Mansion wants to atone for past transgressions, this would be the opportunity to prove it.

NELSON CALISCH

Richmond