Often I’m asked the question, “Why do I care about injustices perpetrated against Black people in America, and why do I speak and write about these issues so frequently?” My answer is that we would all do well to care about what happens to our fellow citizens, because what happens to one impacts the lives of all of us. Certainly, Black people don’t need me to address these issues as there are far more competent leaders and voices within in the Black community that do a far better job, but I need to speak up for my own sake. I need to speak up to continue to address the residual racism that hinders my heart from the compassion and empathy necessary in our world. The United States of America is my home and I love my nation, but I know that we can all do better in understanding one another. To this end, I continue to write and speak out on these issues. Racism and discrimination are deeply ingrained issues in America, and the mistreatment of Black people is a critical issue that needs to be addressed by everyone, not just Black individuals or communities. It is imperative for white people to care about the mistreatment of Black people in America for several reasons.
Recognizing the mistreatment of Black people is a fundamental step towards combating racism and creating a more equitable and just society. Racism and discrimination have a profound impact on the lives of Black individuals, causing them to experience numerous disadvantages, including lower economic opportunities, unequal treatment in the criminal justice system, and reduced access to quality healthcare. By acknowledging the existence of these disparities and the systemic factors that contribute to them, white people can help to create the conditions necessary to dismantle racism and discrimination.
Addressing the mistreatment of Black people is not only a moral obligation but a civic responsibility. As citizens, it is our responsibility to work towards creating a society that is equitable, just, and inclusive. This requires recognizing and combating the systemic factors that contribute to the mistreatment of Black people. By ignoring this issue, white people are not fulfilling their civic responsibilities and are perpetuating the harm that is inflicted on Black individuals.
As we have witnessed with the murder of George Floyd, and most recently the beating death of Tyre Nichols, the mistreatment of Black people affects all members of society, regardless of race. Racism and discrimination undermine the fabric of society by dividing communities and promoting mistrust and hatred. When Black individuals are mistreated, it creates an environment in which fear, mistrust, and hatred can flourish, eroding the social cohesion that is necessary for a healthy and thriving society. This has a negative impact on everyone, regardless of race, and requires collective action to address.
Even a cursory glance at the historical record of America reveals that these injustices aren’t new. The mistreatment of Black people is an issue that has deep roots in American society. From slavery to segregation and the ongoing impact of systemic racism, the mistreatment of Black people is not a new issue. By acknowledging the history of racism and discrimination in America, white people can better understand the root causes of the current disparities experienced by Black individuals and take the necessary steps to address them.
Finally, the mistreatment of Black people is a global issue that has a profound impact on the lives of millions of people around the world. Racism and discrimination are not limited to America, and it is imperative for individuals everywhere to work towards creating a world that is inclusive and just. By addressing the mistreatment of Black people in America, white people can play a role in creating a more equitable and just world for everyone.
The mistreatment of Black people in America is a critical issue that demands the attention and action of all individuals, regardless of race. By acknowledging the existence of systemic factors that contribute to the mistreatment of Black people, recognizing the moral and civic responsibilities to address this issue, recognizing the impact that racism and discrimination have on society as a whole, understanding the historical roots of this issue, and acknowledging the global impact of this issue, white people can play a critical role in creating a more equitable and just society for all.
This is why I speak up, won’t you join me?
Scot Loyd 