Let me start by saying that I’m still not completely sure writing this is a good idea. I’m afraid of saying the wrong thing, I’m afraid of my message somehow being misconstrued, and, mostly, I’m afraid of causing any further pain to members of our community who are already hurting so badly. However, with the best of intentions, I feel I need to speak up. I want everyone in our Lower Bucks community to know that they are welcome here. I want to make it very clear that I am horrified and sickened by the extent to which racism still exists in our country, an extent that I’m learning is far greater than I had realized. My heart breaks for every parent who has to worry about the safety of their child just because of the color of their skin. I am angry on behalf of every Black person who continues to encounter racism in personal interactions or at a systemic level. There is so much work still to be done.
I commit to continued education around the issue of racism, am open to honest, respectful discussion and feedback, and dedicated to instilling in my son the values of equality, advocacy, empathy, and love. I’ve included some resources below that other White members of our community may find helpful as we work to educate ourselves, have tough conversations with our kids, and support our Black neighbors. I will never fully understand your experience, as I have not lived it. But I am listening with an empathetic ear and an open heart. I stand with you in this fight, today and every day.
In the name of peace and love,
Marcie
#BlackLivesMatter #WeStandTogether
Resources
Bucks County Library’s Resources for Learning More About Racial Injustice
Anti-Racism for Kids: An age-by-age guide to fighting hate - Parents Magazine
How to talk to kids about racism, protests and injustice - Today Show online
Coming Together: Standing up to Racism - Sesame Street and CNN Town Hall - airing Saturday, June 6th at 10:00am
Anti-Racism Resources for White Parents
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