Since the tragic death of George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement officers, our country has been roiled by protest, anger, and unrest. For so many African Americans this was not an isolated event.
Racist acts violate justice. They reveal a failure to acknowledge the dignity of the persons offended, to recognize them as our neighbors and fellow human beings. Racism extends beyond personal acts and can also be institutional when practices or traditions are upheld that treat certain groups of people unjustly.
For those who seek to act justly, the ongoing reality of racism is troubling. Our brothers and sisters are crying out saying they have not been seen or heard. Our nation’s laws and policies have not yet achieved justice or equal protection under the law for all people. Racism sows division and denies our common humanity.
We must speak out against violence in words and actions. Justice in society is not best achieved by destruction or violence. For many people of color “interactions with police are fraught with fear and even danger.” This sad reality can anger all of us, but in the fight for justice it is best to reject harsh rhetoric that belittles and dehumanizes law enforcement personnel who work to keep our communities safe. We must seek change, but with unity and understanding in the face of persistent injustice.
I would urge every person of goodwill to work for justice in our society, for reforms that bring peace, justice, and reconciliation.
Mike Berney
Executive Director
Racist acts violate justice. They reveal a failure to acknowledge the dignity of the persons offended, to recognize them as our neighbors and fellow human beings. Racism extends beyond personal acts and can also be institutional when practices or traditions are upheld that treat certain groups of people unjustly.
For those who seek to act justly, the ongoing reality of racism is troubling. Our brothers and sisters are crying out saying they have not been seen or heard. Our nation’s laws and policies have not yet achieved justice or equal protection under the law for all people. Racism sows division and denies our common humanity.
We must speak out against violence in words and actions. Justice in society is not best achieved by destruction or violence. For many people of color “interactions with police are fraught with fear and even danger.” This sad reality can anger all of us, but in the fight for justice it is best to reject harsh rhetoric that belittles and dehumanizes law enforcement personnel who work to keep our communities safe. We must seek change, but with unity and understanding in the face of persistent injustice.
I would urge every person of goodwill to work for justice in our society, for reforms that bring peace, justice, and reconciliation.
Mike Berney
Executive Director
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