The Reality of Racism

A mural and memorial outside Cup Foods in Minneapolis, where George Floyd allegedly used a counterfeit bill, prompting a call to police that led to his death.

(Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

(Galatians 3:28, ESV)

So many thoughts and questions pass through my mind as I consider the news stories around the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020 in the city of Minneapolis, MN. The death of this black man while in police custody has caused another wave of anger against the racism expressed all too often from whites to blacks.

Why did this situation play out as it did? What facts are we left unaware of? Is there any racism in us?

What? Is there any racism in us? Of course not! … or is there? One writer I read would not admit to racism but did admit to having had racist thoughts at times. If I am honest, I have to admit to that, too. I believe in my mind that God made everyone and made each of us equally in His image, and yet I catch myself thinking negative or judgmental thoughts about those different from me.

It may not be African Americans for us - more likely it is First Nations. Most of us are the result of a family member immigrating to Canada - and yet we are judgmental of those immigrating today. I want to deny the reality of racism, but I must acknowledge its presence and threat.

We are all image-bearers of God. Every one of us (no matter our heritage, status, or gender) is called to be one of God’s children.

Here are a few links putting a Christian perspective on this situation:

https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2020/may/george-floyd-ministry-houston-third-ward-church.html

https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-sorrows-of-minneapolis