Oh, how easy it is to move on to the next crisis or news event.
It hasn’t even been two months since a cross-burning on the front lawn of an Arlington family’s home made national news, and how many of us who were moved to action or at least strong emotion then could say we’re still working on the issue today? Or that we’ve even given it much thought?
An Arlington father expressed concern this week that the fight against racism has lost momentum. The city says is hasn’t forgotten about it. It’s a matter of coordinating people’s schedules and finding a date that works for all.
Perhaps the community should step up and let officials know that they’ll make the meeting times work for them, instead of the other way around. After all, our actions determine where our priorities really lie. If people – anywhere, not just in Arlington – are serious about solving racial and diversity problems in this county, thoughts must turn into plans and plans into action.
Fortunately, this is happening to some degree in Arlington and elsewhere. Look no further than Arlington High School, where students have formed a group charged with making the school’s social and cultural climate better, with options such as class meetings, assemblies and training. And the city is going to be sure to include representatives from other groups at the next meeting. This isn’t an issue just for Arlington, but the entire county.
We don’t have to wait for an official meeting to address racism in our communities. Examining our thoughts and actions toward others should be a daily process.
On Monday, thousands of people across the country celebrated the 50th anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that barred racial segregation in schools. “We must work every day to bring life and breathe life into the Brown decision,” said Rep. Elijah Cummings of Maryland. “It is not enough to celebrate.”
It is indeed not enough to celebrate. It is not enough to take a stand right after something happens and expect the matter to resolve itself or for someone else to maintain the urgency and progress.
We must continue to talk with each other on a regular basis, make plans to address concerns, and take action. Then we can celebrate.
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