By Sharon Danosky

As I was preparing this newsletter – I really wanted to say something about what has transpired in the past 10 days and the racial unrest that has been pouring onto our streets.  But what could I say or offer to the conversation?  And what understanding do I really have of the issue?

I am a white women of privilege.  Not the “born with the silver spoon” type – but someone who could assume all the advantages of being raised white.  I assumed I would go to college, be judged equally when applying for a job, have opportunities to be promoted.  I assume I will be seen and heard when I walk into a room.  I assume I will be safe in most situations. I assume I will be treated respectfully in all situations.  And most of all – I erroneously assume that everyone is treated as I am.

I recently watched a 58-second video where Jane Elliott, an American schoolteacher, anti-racism activist and educator, made a simple request:  “I’d like to ask every white person in this room who would be happy to be treated the same way as this society treats our black citizens to please stand up.”  No one stood.  We all know there are racial inequities.  And yet we live everyday as if we are wearing blinders.

I would like to share with you a newsletter from an organization I have been privileged to work with in the past and the commitment they have made to help build a better future.  [CLICK HERE]

I, too, commit to walk without blinders and to do everything I can to help create a more just and equitable world.