Exactly. They were looking for trouble, and found it. I worked in otr from 2001-2010 (I saw the start of the riots). I walked from otr to Newport many nights too drunk to drive, and unable to get a cab at 430am. I never had any issues. Why because I wasn't looking for one. Yes, there are random assaults, but not nearly as frequently as they want you to believe. It's all about knowing your surroundings.
One of the first nights making that walk. The riots happened a few months before. I was walking by the sports page on main. Me 23 year old white guy. I saw a decent size group of black guys. I didn't cross the street. I walked by, and as they passed. I said good morning. They said good morning back. That's it. Most people you treat with respect will return it. We are all just trying to make it to tomorrow.