I have been blessed by the opportunity to speak at numerous events for schools, businesses and organizations during Black History Month and for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Its at those times that many of us take a look at the state of Black America and reflect on the struggles of the past. We do this to see where we were, how far we have come and the path that we need to take to ensure a better future. It should be obvious, by the recent events in America, that we are far from what may be considered an equal and free society, but at the same time we are far from where it all began.
As stated by Bishop Joey Johnson at the House of The Lord in Akron, Ohio, “one of the powerful realities of today is that the perils of yesterday have been greatly lessened.” Just look at the following facts:
Minorities and women have a measure of freedom.
Minorities and women can vote.
The practice of lynching has been greatly curtailed.
We have the opportunity to pursue happiness.
The other reality is that we still have a long way to go because,
Minorities and women have not attained true freedom and justice.
Prejudice and racism have largely gone underground, but they are not dead.
We are seldom lynched, but can still face substantial danger in caught in the wrong places.
Poverty is still a problem along with lack of education.
Bishop Johnson notes that the advancements in equality and justice appear to be moving at an increased rate. For example, from the Declaration of Independence to the election of Barack Obama is only 234 years. From the Emancipation Proclamation to his election was fewer than 150 years. From the marches of Martin Luther King Jr. to the inauguration is fewer than 50 years. It is my sincere hope that we will continue to advance at this same rate. However, I submit to you that we have to work both ends at the same time. We have to work on the laws and societal issues that keep racism and injustice alive while working on ourselves. Its’ the later part, working on ourselves, that causes a great debate in this current generation, but its the position from which I choose to pursue change. If you don’t change yourself, nothing will ever change for you. I encourage you to use this season to look at ways that you can take personal responsibility for change. Combining your personal efforts with those who pursue society change and progress will continue advance the position of all people. If you ignore the part that you personally play in the change game, Things will remain where they are.
For more information on this topic visit the “Finish First Workshops” at the East Cleveland Court on Monday nights at 5:30pm or visit my website.
East Cleveland Municipal Court’s Judge William L. Dawson is on a mission to help people to Finish First, live their best lives and be Cycle Breakers!
www.teamfinishfirst.com
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