This is a time of pain, righteous anger, and sorrow for our country. The killing by police officers of George Floyd demands justice and accountability. It reflects the deep structural racism evident in the killing of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, in racialized threats of violence in Central Park, and in similar events in so many communities. This hurt runs especially deep among Black Americans. If we are to heal as a nation it must be shared and understood by all Americans.
Our anger is magnified by an economic and public health crisis unlike any in decades — more than 100,000 deaths from Covid-19, with Black and Latino communities hardest hit, and the worst unemployment since the Great Depression. At a time when we need unity and truth, the president uses his bully pulpit to spew hate and sow division.
At this very hard moment, it is a time for good people everywhere to speak with one voice. To root out racism, uphold justice, and strengthen our democracy so it works for all — and especially for those so long marginalized. We must turn pain into purpose.