I can’t write a compelling article to change a racist mind, so I won’t try!  I know that a mind once set is stronger than concrete. We both have set minds and finally, we stand on common ground.

Would it surprise you to know that every black life you have taken has caused me and countless others to weep with sorrow? We cry for the lives lost and the adventures never lived. We cry for the victims and the survivors. We cry because we love deeply and lose often, but you already knew that.

Do you know we teach our brown babies how to survive and thrive in a world that hates their very presence? Of course, you know!  That tidbit of truth is included in every article and speech bent towards making you understand and sympathize with our plight.  You know of all this and yet you remain unmoved and murderous.

I’m not here to tell you what you already know.  I’m here to shed light on what you are afraid to acknowledge.

Daily, we teach our sons how to be safe. We teach them how to be arrested whether they deserve it or not. We teach them they can somehow live to see another day if they do not resist. We teach them to humble themselves, so you feel exalted.  Though it saddens me to admit it, you taught them something far greater.  You taught them that their lives don’t matter (at least to you) so they might as well die trying.  You taught them that humbling themselves will get them killed anyway. You taught them to question your motives and the balance of power.

We taught our sons and daughters how to comply on the outside, but they know far more on the inside. Behind closed doors, we are also teaching them that they matter greatly, their voices matter.  Our words and your actions have created a powerful mantle.  A mantle that has been passed to the next generation. Look closely and you will see it.  This mantle is worn by my sons and daughters.  It is worn by every person of color.  It is worn by all races.  We are not alone.  We have white and Latino allies, Asian and Caucasian supporters.  Brown and alabaster brothers and sisters stand arm and arm under it.  Your hatred help created it.  Your fear cannot stop it.

The ripples of outrage continue to grow with every injustice. You cannot stop that either. Our generation will continue walking towards racial equality so the generations to come can stand in it.

Dear racist, do you see it?  The mantle has been passed.