The Other Virus Plaguing The World

“I can’t breathe.”

When I heard and saw the horrific video of the murder of George Floyd, I was instantly reminded of Eric Garner, a black man from New York who suffered a similar fate at the hands of police and uttered those same words in 2014.

A couple weeks before this, the nation found out that back in February, a young, black man named Ahmaud Arbery was targeted and shot while jogging. Also, a young woman named Breonna Taylor was shot and killed by police in her home.

Am I sad? Yes.

Am I angry? Yes.

But am I surprised? No.

The United States of America has a history of oppressing minorities and it sadly still rings true today. Racism is still as prevalent as it was at the beginning of the nation’s history.

As a black individual living in America, every time I go on social media and turn on the news, I’m reminded of the fact that I, my parents, my brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc., could be perceived as a threat simply because of the color of our skin and frankly, I’m tired of it.

I’m tired of feeling uneasy when I see a police officer, even though I know not all cops are bad.

I’m tired of having to be lectured by my parents on how to act and be careful when I go out, simply because of my skin color.

As a Christian, I long for justice to be served and I believe God, who is just, will serve it whether on this side of heaven or on judgement day.

On a tangent, during this time, I also long to be a carrier of love, peace and unity, as difficult as it may be during this time. I strive to be an image-bearer of Jesus.

At the same time, I’m urging people not to turn a blind eye to the systemic racism occurring not only in the United States, but the world. With that in mind, I’ve been encouraged by how the Church has responded and are willing to discuss these issues and have these conversations.

I saw a picture of a CNN headline that said this: “Two Deadly Viruses Are Killing Americans: COVID-19 and Racism.” How sad and true.

We are in two pandemics: one has been occurring for months and the other has been occurring since, what feels like, the dawn of time.

We must to better. We have to. Let’s continue having these uncomfortable conversations, educate ourselves, donate to organizations and sign petitions. Let’s extend grace and show love, not hate. Let’s ensure that the world is a better and safe place for future generations.

In the words of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.: “I look to a day when people will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”