FORGING A PATH OF RACIAL JUSTICE

The Baha’is of the United States are saddened by the unjustified homicides of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and the many more who were, and those who continue to be, victims of violence because of their skin color. This unjust violence, along with the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on people of color, as well as the continued disproportionate arrests and convictions of Black and Brown people has made the issue of racial prejudice even more urgent. We recognize that racial injustice is a major problem in our country.

YET, AMIDST THESE TRAGEDIES, THERE ARE ALSO SIGNS OF HOPE.

Many people have come forward to say that we are all part of the same country and to ask for actions to fix the unfairness that has affected our society for a long time. We remember who we want to be as a nation and are committed to making things better. This moment beckons us to a renewed commitment to realize the ideal of E Pluribus Unum—out of many one; the very ideal principles upon which America was founded.

Creating a fair society starts with acknowledging that we are all connected. Just believing this isn't sufficient; we must take action and examine every part of our lives from a justice perspective. This means significant changes in our society are necessary, and for that to happen, people of all races and backgrounds must participate. Only through inclusive involvement can we find new moral and social paths.

Regardless of the outcomes of the current protests, the eradication of racism will need a continuous and focused endeavor. Although we can have a great appreciation for the courage expressed by protesters who peacefully defy unjust systems to make us aware of the many many racial injustices faced by people of color, it is only the first step needed in the much harder process of establishing a fresh system of fairness. We will only succeed if we learn to form genuine friendships, respect, and trust with one another. These values will then serve as the foundation for our institutions and communities to thrive.

We must work together to learn how to make models of our desired vision for every aspect of American life. By practicing unity through practical involvement and personal experience, we can achieve this goal.