It’s hard to believe that our community is the epicenter of a movement that has ignited a red-hot wave of global protest, casting light on racism, injustice and white privilege.
In looking back, George Floyd’s death is a moment of truth that forces us to see ourselves through the unforgiving lens of hindsight. What happened is more significant than racism — it is about humanity.
There is a surge of anger among people who feel they have no voice, no political influence and little economic power over their future. This animosity is feeding social division and intolerance, and causing an eruption in violence. What is happening in our backyard goes deeper than flaws in law enforcement practices, politics and policy.
Some of our neighbors choose to ignore the adversity and suffering of those who don’t look like them. Even the locally invented “All Are Welcome Here” signs do not change the fact that marginalized groups are invisibly residing in places where most never venture.
There is now a sense that this time is different. A prevalent realization that old oppressions and long-standing inequities must be addressed. The question is, How far will this energy be translated into concrete action and change?
We need to have honest, uncomfortable conversations to expose the contradiction between American ideals and the realities of oppression. The outcomes of these dialogues can help us challenge our beliefs, form new opinions and understand others with different points of view.
Our region’s reputation and custom of being “nice” needs to be more than superficial and must be tested for inclusivity. Now is our opportunity to do something. Making change can range from donating our time to using our affluence to direct money toward initiatives to end racism. However brashly ambitious or seemingly inconsequential, our efforts can’t be performative.
May we all move beyond our own self-interest to help create communities of kindness. It’s time that our society works equally for everyone.
Sincerely,
Frank Roffers, Publisher + Editor-At-Large
