The Fierce Urgency of Now
January 19, 2010It’s been over 45 years since Martin Luther King, Jr. called us to take a stand against racism with these words. I ache as I realize it has been that long. As a white person, I have not been very fierce or urgent. I have been too often distracted by the privileged world in which I live. I’ve diminished the cries of those who suffer as if I was turning down a radio dial when the sound gets too loud. Working for racial justice requires one to be conscious; not just when it’s convenient, but in every moment. I recommit to staying awake.
Today I’ve been writing my part of a sermon I will co-preach next week with a minister colleague of mine who is African American. Seattle First Baptist Church
I wonder about how we will be received. I risk speaking of racism and what it means to be white as authentically as I can in hopes that we can all take another step together towards justice. May it be so.
White matters 
Thank you! I have a lot of respect and admiration for you and your message. It takes a lot of courage to look in the mirror, subject oneself to true discernment, then boldly act on the results. As a person of color, I appreciate your willingness to speak out and add your eloquent voice in the effort to reduce (willful) ignorance. I look forward to following your blog.
I appreciate your encouragement and welcome your perspectives and comments as this goes along. Thanks for writing!