Andy Kim is my congressman. I am very proud of him and his accomplishments. I share the sentiment contained in the following statement from him.
February 1, 2021 Press Release
Congressman Kim Statement on Black History Month
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) released the following statement celebrating the beginning of Black History Month
“New Jersey plays a significant role in shaping Black History. From its stops on the Underground Railroad to its proud sons and daughters, we have much to celebrate as we seek to expand justice and equality for all.
However, Black History Month isn’t just a time of celebration, it’s also a time for deep reflection. While we should celebrate the incredible contributions of Black Americans across our country and history, we should pause to reflect on the inequities faced by our neighbors even to this day. While those two actions may feel contradictory, they’re intrinsically linked. We cannot honor Black achievement without seeking to fully understand the Black experience; an experience that many of us have and will never endure. It’s important that we recognize the extra lengths Black Americans must go to achieve the same as so many other Americans. And we must dedicate ourselves breaking down those barriers and destroying the burdens that create those very conditions.”
Growing up in a multi-cultural school district I was exposed to various ethnicities and races. As far as I can remember we all seemed to blend well together. But when the riots of the 1960s and 70s occurred many people took sides. I remember being quite taken aback when an African American friend suddenly was less congenial and amiable than before. We did eventually return to “normal” but I think my naivete made me believe everything was fine.
Now some 40 years later, I realize I was quite blind to the plights of individuals, and in particular what they had to endure throughout their lifetimes. I credit my new “2020” acuity to many things. 2020 has been described as the worst, most horrible year in recent history due to the effects of COVID-19, the senseless killings of people of color, and the deepening divisions within our country. However, I feel this past year has also been a significant learning opportunity for all of us. I would not have the improved visual and mental clarity I have today if not for all the heartbreaking loss of life from both the excessive use of force and the pandemic, the lost livlihoods, the extreme income inequality and the erosion of core American values and institutions .
I am now more sensitive to and more empathetic toward people and how they are perceived and treated. It never occured to me that we had so many closet bigots in this country and frankly, I don’t understand why that is. In the end we all want the same thing; happiness and good health for ourselves and loved ones, prosperity for our families, and to be looked upon with dignity. So why not contemplate that before being judgemental?
Why can’t we all think before we speak and act, and try to walk in each others’ shoes? I truly believe that unless you experience what others are experiencing, you have no idea what they are going through and you cannot and should not make flash judgements because of the color of their skin, or what they wear, or how they worship.
So I return to Andy Kim’s words who so eloquently said….”It’s important that we recognize the extra lengths Black Americans must go to achieve the same as so many other Americans. And we must dedicate ourselves to breaking down those barriers and destroying the burdens that create those very conditions.”
This should apply to all people of color.
Life Redecorated 