Black lives matter and it matters that we reiterate that truism because there seems to be an epidemic of thought and deed that is trying to convince us otherwise. From rampant terrorism in Africa to political candidates and their supporters bragging about their bigotry to unequal justice being meted out, the thesis being proposed is that they don’t matter.
This week’s tragedies could be a tipping point or a turning point depending on how we see the world. The violence and vitriol mongers could tip the story toward more outrage, more revenge, more hatred and drag society into a deep pit of fear and reprisal. More deaths could occur across the continent and move to other jurisdictions. A powder keg of vile disregard could be ignited and burn up countries and cultures. The demonstrations would always have an edge of riot and unlawfulness and violence would beget violence.
I prefer to hope that this is a turning point. A moment where we unite, regardless of color, creed or politics, and say ” Enough, we won’t stand for this anymore.” If we are going to have protests in the street, let’s all join in and raise our voices and our banners. Across North America, UK and through Europe let’s link arms with brothers and sisters of every age and colour demanding that ‘authorities’ make black lives matter a rallying call for citizens and public servants. Let’s weed out ‘leaders’ who are buttering their own toast with hateful rhetoric. Let’s make it known that elections are coming and then act to remove bigots, racists and fearmongers regardless of their political stripe.
Let’s have conversations in our kitchens, on our lawns, while walking the dog, attending a service with neighbours, family, friends and strangers about how we want the world to be and commit to making it so by our individual and community actions.
Let’s leverage our consumer power and support businesses and corporations that openly demonstrate their position of equality and stop supporting businesses that offer support to those who would divide us. Let’s use this week as a positive turning point and turn up the heat, in very civil disobedience.
B
