Dear Friends,
This past week, justice has been served in the murder trial of George Floyd. As a result, the future looks brighter in spite of the tragedies that have brought us to this point. We have faced the truth that systemic racism exists, that people of color must be given equal justice under the law, and that we all need to wake up and become part of the solution.
From a spiritual perspective, we need to remember that the goal of this trial was not to make Derek Chauvin suffer, but to hold him accountable for what he did. By holding him accountable, we are setting a new precedent of equality and fairness for all people. This is about justice, not revenge.
Last week, Martin Luther King, III spoke about his father’s vision of a heightened level of accountability based on a revolution of values designed to bring about peace, justice, and equity. One of the ways I see this level of accountability taking place is for each of us to admit that no matter how loving and compassionate we might be, we are, more than likely, carrying unconscious biases toward others. Addressing these issues and taking responsibility for them, without shame or blame, brings us closer to this heightened level of accountability and allows us to experience life in more empathetic and compassionate ways
George Floyd’s brother, Philonise, has been speaking out about what the victory in this trial really means. He said, “People around the world have been sending me messages that say ‘Lets know we can all breathe again.’ We are fighting for accountability. This is a pivotal turning point.” Floyd’s young daughter, Gianna, told President Biden, “My Daddy changed the world.” Let us support her in that vision.
What can we do to help? I recommend a powerful, best-selling book called “How to be an Anti-Racist” by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. It is an incredible account of the many ways racism penetrates every level of society and a most important wake-up call to each of us to be conscious of working toward a new paradigm of equality and justice for all.
Blessings of Love
