On Race: From a Letter to a Colleague

Obama noted in his race speech that Reverend Wright mistakenly views racism in our society as static. I share Wright’s affliction. This has prevented me from attempting to build coalitions to bridge the racial divide. I have chosen instead to engage in the notion of racial self-help as expressed by Wright and Farrakhan.

Those of us at the opposing racial extremes are incapable of bridging the divide. We are too entrenched in our camps. The progressives who have the intellectual and genetic capacity to gain acceptance in both camps will be the architects of change. Hence, Barack Obama.

The area where I’ve been more effective opposing injustice is on women’s issues. As a perceived “guy’s guy,” I’m expected to fear and resent women. I won’t insult any intelligent person by stating that I’ve transcended the male ignorance with respect to women. Yet I have been and will continue to be a successful advocate for women in the work force, particularly when I’m in positions of power. I credit my ex-wife for her influence.

So continue to fight the good fight for social justice, and somewhere in the process, enjoy your precious gift of life.

Photo courtesy of the author