Fighting Racism One Person At A Time

May 22, 1992
Originally published by Sacramento Bee

Somewhere, sometime, it had been predicted, the "products" of an unequal American society would rise up in an unprecedented conflict with the so-called establishment. That day has come. The highly controversial jury decision that acquitted four Los Angeles police officers in the Rodney King beating sparked numerous protests throughout America's cities and neighborhoods, most notably South Central Los Angeles.

The violence and chaos that resulted sent two messages: One, that African-Americans are fed up with the injustices in our legal system; and two, we must examine the factors that cause people to explode in outrage.

This is the culmination of an apoplexy that has smoldered for decades in the urban communities of our country. The United States was founded on the principle of "liberty and justice for all." Too often, however, this phrase has meant "for all whites." African-Americans are standing up in protest across this country to let America know that the "status quo" is no longer acceptable.

In court, the defense argued that cops cracked under intense pressure. It also argued that Rodney King somehow incited the beating by appearing as a "physical threat." But it was clearly evident by watching the videotape of the incident that civil and human rights laws were violated, that the actions of four cops were excessive and senseless.

Now that the law has deserted them, many African-Americans feel they have nowhere to turn. African-American males particularly are politically and socially invisible, making them vulnerable to changes in national sentiment. Often, they are powerless to defend and assert themselves within the economic, political and social arenas.

This message, delivered by the revelers, looters, arsonists and pillagers who ran rampant in our streets, has not been easy for some people to accept. Nevertheless, they must comprehend and recognize the growing discontent. These actions will be repeated and driven home in more violent incidents unless we rethink the way the "status quo" operates.

African-Americans are tired of turning the other cheek and taking injustice and racism in stride. We will exercise our right to speak out and make our voices heard, which we pray will be achieved through nonviolent actions.

Now, the second message: We as African-AMericas must totally rebuild in our communities. The physical, geographical rebuilding is obvious, but the individual and internal healing must begin at this moment. How do we do it?

We will start by participating in decision-making at every level, and in all aspects of this nation. We will make our votes count. We will strengthen community investments and entrepreneurship in our neighborhoods. We will provide more mentors for youth. Parents will know where their children are and support them. Remember, if you are not doing something to improve your community on a regular basis, you are part of the problem.

A word to African-American males: Let us not let this society define for us what and who we are. To all people--black, white, red or brown: Do not let racism exist without taking an active role in changing people's thoughts. So many times, we hear a racist comment or see racist actions and "we don't wan't to stir up trouble" by speaking out. We cannot let this continue to happen if we are to truly live up to our potential and take our righteous place in the United States as true American citizens.