A young man is murdered not because of who he was but rather because of what he represented. As he lies dying he comes upon the realization that life is not simply surviving but representing what you believe and having your actions reflect those beliefs. The short story “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” by Evan Hunter is a prime example of prejudice without reconciliation as well as self realization. First we find that Andy is solely identified based on his gang colors, this point solidly supports prejudice. Secondly it is evident that after judgments are made they are hard pressed to be removed. Finally Andy finds out that the only thing he needs to support in his life is himself and his beliefs.

“He heard the voice saying, ‘that’s for you ROYAL!’” Andy’s attacker does not identify him by using his name rather he calls him a “ROYAL”. This reflects how Andy’s choice of joining a gang attaches him to his wound and what has been done to him. This is a direct representation of prejudice. The phrase “He’s a Royal” is used by everyone but the narrator and Laura to identify Andy. Prejudice was a determining factor in Andy’s life, without it he would never have been stabbed or left for dead by those in a position to help him. Is it not truly tragic that Andy himself only realized what a cruel beast prejudice is because of dying in a street alley? In the story there are many examples of maltreatment towards Andy. (quote) Andy had many opportunities to be saved. However they were merely thrown away, despite who he may have been as a person.

In concurrence with the first point we find that the police officer as well as the couple Freddie and Angela do not allow themselves to reconcile with their first judgments of Andy. The officer’s opening remark ” A Royal, huh?” is answered with a timid “His name was Andy”. Either he did not recognize or simply chose not to acknowledge Andy for who he was, however the true reflection of his thought process are reflected in his choice to simply confirm what he cared about, the boys gang affiliation. “A Royal”.  Rather than change his viewpoint on how he felt about gang casualties the officer chose not to acknowledge with the fact that this boy was more than just a Royal, he was a human being. To further this point Freddie seems ready to help Andy but after seeing Andy’s jacket and uttering the phrase “He’s a Royal” Freddie’s willingness to help instantly deteriorates. Just like the officer Freddie is given the chance to change his prejudice view. “We can’t leave him in the rain” Freddie could have taken the chance and agreed to Angela’s statement however he let his fears and prejudice get in the way of seeing that it was a boy that was hurt not just a Royal. Both the officer and Freddie serve to only perpetuate Evan Hunters message of prejudice without reconciliation.