The past month has been an unimaginably painful time here in the United States with the unwarranted death of George Floyd being the latest in a tragic history of violence against the people of color. As I watch the nation galvanize with one voice and people of all races, ages, and religious beliefs come together insisting that the deep-rooted systems of racial inequality and social injustice be addressed. It is clear to all that change must happen.
The words of Nelson Mandela a world leader who was incarcerated for 27 years have resonated so often since May 25th 2020.
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”
― Nelson Mandela, Long Walk to Freedom
As a mother of multiracial children, I have often times wondered what sort of world we are passing to them and will they seek to restore the core values of this country’s founding fathers. The past week’s peaceful rallies and social media messaging gives me hope. Again, I refer to Nelson Mandela’s message of hope for the future.
“Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.”
― Nelson Mandela
Thank you,
Susi Herowati
President