To the Editor:
Another unarmed black man has died at the hands of police, and once again, the nation is in turmoil, pain and conflict. We are members of the Riverhead Clergy Council, and we feel the frustration, the despair, the need to speak out, to stand up, to make changes in this nation so that this never happens again.
On Wednesday of this week, former President Jimmy Carter reminded us that silence can be as deadly as violence. He said “we must all shine a spotlight on the immorality of racial discrimination.”
And so, we will not remain silent. We will stand in unity with all our oppressed brothers and sisters. To affirm that all people are created equal, each one a child of God. To condemn those who corrupt the message of equality and social justice by their acts of violence, looting and theft. To support law enforcement officers who faithfully serve and protect the people (and the U.S. Constitution) amid the present turmoil.
To affirm the challenge of believing in the ultimate power of justice in a world that appears to be overwhelmingly unjust. To promise to do all we can, individually and as a community, to work for an end to the injustice which fosters the racism from which this nation so badly needs to free itself. To serve as witnesses to injustice, and to listen to the voices of the unheard. To face with courage and resolve racism and economic injustice with our congregations and community.
Riverhead Clergy Council
Rev. Lorraine De Armitt
Rev. Anton DeWet
Fr. Larry Duncklee
Rev. Bohdan Hedz
Rev. Dr. Sean Murray
Rabbi Michael Rascoe
Bishop Emil Wcela
Rev. Janet Wright
Rev. HyoungDock Yoo
The survival of local journalism depends on your support.
We are a small family-owned operation. You rely on us to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Just a few dollars can help us continue to bring this important service to our community.
Support RiverheadLOCAL today.
