That word, embrace, is a word of “action”. It is never passive. So it is not enough for any of us to say we are not racist, particularly when we see so much racism around us.
What should we do?
I believe we need to start by exploring ourselves and challenging our own perspectives. I suggest reading about racism in the world and the history of it. Reflect on our own privileges and our own actions. Learn to listen to others and try to understand their experiences, especially those that differ from our own.
We all have blinders on when we view the world. Maybe so it won’t hurt so much. That is normal behavior in most instances of our early development. But, it is by listening carefully to others that we can learn how they may be experiencing the same world, very differently. This “action” of learning to understand by deeply listening can remove the blinders from our eyes.
The uncomfortable truth
The events of the last couple of months have made quite clear the uncomfortable truth of present-day America. Those of us with the blinders still exonerating our recognition believe that much progress has been made. However, racism continues to be a deeply rooted part of our society. The killings of three African-Americans: Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia, Breonna Taylor in Kentucky, and George Floyd in Minnesota are horrific acts of violence against Black people.
Pain, sadness and anger
We hold the vulnerability, pain, sadness and anger of people around the country. We recognize that multiple forms of societal discrimination are all intertwined and of the same toxic family. We stand in grief and solidarity with Black communities. In this moment we affirm the full humanity, dignity, and rights to freedom from violence for all Black people.
The need to commit
We truly need to commit to eradicating our biases, and to end daily expressions of discrimination whether overt or subtle. Commit to lifelong learning and dialogue, and to stand up for the humanity of all people at all times.
We need to recognize that this historical moment requires us to especially uplift the experiences of Black people while we stand in solidarity with all who experience marginalization, discrimination, and violence.
This is an “action”, it is a process, and it will take us on a more fulfilling journey through life.
Remember, change is inevitable…………wisdom is knowledge……………….however, growth is optional.
