LETTER: We must create more safe, trusting, loving spacesTo the Editor:
I attended the “Promoting Racial Justice in the Mohawk Valley” event hosted by the Town of Kirkland Democratic Committee April 5. Moderator Phyllis Breland created a warm and inviting environment for the conversation. The four panelists were Utica Spanish teacher Brandon Long, journalist and teacher Jeanette LeNoir, community empowerment specialist Patrick Johnson and political activist Freddie Hamilton.
All of them are African American residents of the Mohawk Valley.
The audience was predominately white women and men who acknowledge the disenfranchisement of people of color through power structures and institutions over centuries in a country they helped build. The audience wanted to learn how they can act in solidarity with black people who experience racism and bias in daily life. The panelists urged the audience to continue showing up for black people, stand up against racist thoughts, deeds and practices and to come from a place of love.
The Mohawk Valley needs more training on racial justice, especially in our school system because it’s clear we aren’t learning enough from each other. We must create more safe, trusting, loving spaces where white and black people can have conversations that may be uncomfortable at the beginning but will end in hugs and friendships.
Sarah Reeske, Clinton