Danita Green and Marsha Summers: Co-CEOs of Coming Together Virginia
Examples of racial prejudice, inequity, and violence continue to be a regular part of the news cycle. Within the past week, stories have emerged about racist hate speech directed at a Black member of the Duke women’s volleyball team during a match at Brigham Young University and the killing of an unarmed Black man by police in Columbus, OH. The ongoing litany of various forms of racial injustice seems overwhelming and leaves many of us wondering what if anything we can do in response. While there has never been a single response that is adequate to the challenges of racism, it is important to become aware of and connect with people and organizations committed to the struggle for racial justice. As the beloved Mr. Rogers advised the millions of children he loved and served, “Look for the helpers.” Last Saturday, I had the privilege of participating in a Unity Walk sponsored by Coming Together Virginia. It was encouraging to meet others in the Richmond, VA community who are called to resist racism and promote racial justice and equity. While this walk was largely symbolic, it is part of ongoing programs of education, relationship building, and equity focused advocacy that enable people to live into the organization’s mission: Working together to create a just and truthful society that acknowledges and seeks to heal from the racial wounds of the past ,from slavery and the many forms of racism it spawned.
Since moving to Richmond two years ago, I have become aware of multiple organizations and ministries that are “helpers” committed to working for racial justice in our area. I participate in monthly meetings of Clergy and Citizens Against Racism. This interfaith ministry provides mutual support for clergy and faith community members who see our faith in God as the foundation for the ongoing work of racial justice and reconciliation. The commitment and work of all these “helpers” receives little media attention compared to stories of racial hatred and violence. That is why it is important to look for and connect with the “helpers’“ in your community, state, and nation. Especially when we feel overwhelmed and scared by the depth and pain of racism, remember the words of Mr. Rogers, “Look for the helpers.”