I have been thinking about the current situation in our nation and praying about it. I have written some of my feelings and thoughts and have been sending to many of those I know. I am sending to you also.
I am trying to cope with anger and outrage over situations of police brutality and lack of regard for the humanity of Black and Brown people in our country. I am heartbroken and saddened over the senseless murders that have occurred--George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor,... It doesn't seem to end. How can I ensure that Black men, our children and for me especially, my sons, are protected and do not fall victim to the horrendous racism in our society? Something must be done. Things must change. Now, more than ever, we must seek justice.
What can we as citizens, parents and people of faith do to affect change? We must pray and we must do more. We must make our voices heard. We must vote. We must teach our children. Whether you are a person of color or an ally, we have to move from being a bystander to an upstander.
As you consider these issues, here are some useful links that may help:
Moving from a bystander to an upstander: https://videocast.nih.gov/watch=37765
The impact of racism on child and adolescent health: https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/144/2/e20191765
Talking to children about racism and current events:
I hope that the recent events lead us to ways to end these injustices rather than allow for the cycle to continue repeating over and over again. It is up to each of us. We must stand up for justice.
With hope for a better world,
Karen