Kindness, knowledge, empathy, tolerance and discourse. The recent Ferguson decision and the subsequent violence that erupted in that town has brought race relations to the forefront once again. I have witnessed some of the most ignorant assumptions and racist remarks that I have not seen since Barack Obama won the presidency. It seems that many White Americans do not understand Black Americans. And it’s almost enough to make me think that many don’t care to. But being the eternal optimist I cling to hope. There is an obvious disconnect between what people believe is good relations between the races. I think it is because some folks (on all sides) are defensive and do not engage in reasonable discourse while some non-Blacks refuse to view the history of African Americans without some feeling of persecution.
Kindness, Empathy and Tolerance.
Here is the truth: the history and experience of African Americans is complex. And people have to understand that. Is it really such a big deal to be a little sensitive to Black folks at this time? Sure, everyone is entitled to their own opinion but if you really want to IMPROVE the situation then you must use your heart and you have to do a little work. This comes naturally to many people. You simply apply good manners and common sense. If someone is hurt by a situation, you don’t run around making snide remarks about it on social media or in the work place.
But for those of you who are at a loss for what is going on, you just need to use your heart. I am not asking anyone to sanction the violence that occurred last night in Ferguson. I abhor that kind of deviant destructive behavior but I don’t want my friends (who are not Black) ranting solely about that activity and not acknowledging the hurt that we as a community feel. Is it too much trouble to take a few minutes and try to see it from our side? If you feel hurt by something, say you are hurt. Gently admit that you don’t understand. Yeah it’s a bit of work, and maybe a lot of trouble but as I said to a friend earlier: Welcome to race relations in America.
Knowledge
Let go of the premise that Black People should “get over it.” Why should we? Many groups have suffered persecution throughout history. Why should anyone deny their heritage and history? You are a witness to something extraordinary. You are watching an entire sector of a population connected by race, history and culture, who is trying to determine itself in a Nation which up until a mere 50 years ago was subjugated to an institutionalized system set up against them. Slavery was only three generations ago. Racism is hard on the psyche. It’s residue lingers. Watch Dr. Henry Louis Gates’ PBS series “The African Americans” it’s a great history lesson.
Empathy and Discourse
I am not an angry person full of hate, I will talk to you.You don’t understand it? I will break it down for you. You are sick of hearing about it? Well, I am sick of having to deal with the crap my damn self. But you must not deny or belittle the pain that Black people are feeling right now. And yes, there is anger. But we have all dealt with anger. Forget the mob. Deal with a person. Maybe you do know someone who plays the “race card” all of the time. (By the way, NEVER use that term with someone you aren’t familiar with, it is condescending, ask me why) If you really talked to that person you would see that their anger stems from pain. How can you not empathize with that? And if they hurt your feelings and remain unreasonable then move away from that topic and find someone who will engage you in an open reasonable manner. Don’t feel persecuted. Be sincere. Listen. I will do the same. Yes, it is a lot of work but nothing good ever comes easy. And watch Henry Louis Gates series “The African Americans” it’s a great history lesson.
As for the true Racist bigots out there – I have to leave you to a higher power.
Thank you for your thoughtful writing on this