It’s been quite a ride in our country for the past few years. It feels like our political, racial, and gender divide is widening with little hope in sight. When other countries hear or read about some of the racist political rhetoric about immigration, African Americans, how does it affect their perception of Americans?
When we have politicians stereotyping immigrants seeking asylum in our country as rapists, gang members, and dirt, what does it say about our humanity?
What happened to the country that stated, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”? How can we build communities that are diverse and inclusive when we are ostracizing those who do not fit or standard of Americanism?
While it may look hopeless, I feel reassured by those who are doing the work to support, protect, and value the human rights of others. I feel blessed when I see the work that is being done by organizations such as Southern Poverty Law Center, Detained Migrant Solidarity Committee.
So as we approach the holiday season, I want you to ask yourself, what can you do to bring compassion into your life, your home, your community, your place of employment, your school, or your place of worship?
We may not be able to change how others see us a country, but we can begin to show, “…that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”- Margaret Meade
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