History and misplaced hate have kept us apart in America far too long. We have seen diversity in appearance and culture as a negative thing rather than as the sources of beauty and opportunity they make possible. This is a loss for African Americans, Native Americans and other groups that have been long held down and held back, but it is also a loss for all of the rest of us.
Systemic racism and otherisms in general have reduced our opportunity to make use of the creativity that comes from people of diverse backgrounds working together.
Economic and physical abuse of members of minority groups is immoral and unproductive.
What the continuing demonstrations are showing is that many of the privileged have been getting to know and care about those who have been discriminated against and that we are all stronger when acting together as equals.
It’s time and past time for the rest of us to follow.
Robert J. Reiland
O’Hara