Going to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church taught me a lot about diversity and white privilege. We have a diverse congregation and a beloved community team and the Essex County Community Organization.
They work very hard to educate us towards racial equality and justice. Growing up, I was always exposed to diversity. I am from Jamaica Plain and my parents and family were not racists, so I thought I knew it all but I’m still learning everyday that people of color have suffered and do suffer every day much more than whites.
They are targeted by the police and others for being who they are.
People of color have to teach their children what to say or do if they are stopped by the police. We all need to educate ourselves how we can help and not hurt one another and about the sins of the past; of slavery, and against Native Americans who have been treated horribly.
Amends need to be made to these people for loss of life and land. We need to repent — conservative Christians, all people of faith and non-believers alike must treat others as we want to be treated and make this world a better place for all.
We are all the same human beings and have the same needs for love, respect, dignity, food, housing, health care, etc.
Josephine Russo
Lynn
