I am so very saddened by the clear racism that exists in this country. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the grand jury findings in New York and Ferguson, it is clear that black men are very often treated differently than white men when confronted by the police. I say this for many reasons but one that saddens me greatly is the conversation black parents feel they must have with their black sons. It is is different from the one I had with my white sons.
The conversation that I had when giving advice about talking with police was something like,"If you get pulled over for speeding, don't answer back,,,don't argue...,just say 'Yes, Sir...No, Sir." Black parents also have to give the admonition that young black men are treated differently...often not given the benefit of the doubt...often roughed up and arrested for minor offenses...
Way too often there is a difference. Can we begin to have a conversation that acknowledges that difference?
I have never used this blog for political opinion but I believe this conversation is one we must raise. It is an issue of social justice---not politics. If nothing else we each need to reflect and pray about how we continue to have prejudice in our own lives. How do we act and feel about our co-workers or neighbors who may be racially or ethnically different? Do we treat them equally? What jokes do we laugh at? What words are allowed in our homes?
I realize this blog is read by persons from countries other than the United States. Sadly our racial prejudice is not a secret---and I believe it exits in all countries. We all have a personal responsibility in this.
The cultural change begins with each of us----and it is part of our recovery.
I pray we begin the conversation in our own hearts, in our families and our social networks--not in anger but in peace.
Blessings-Penny
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