Justice for George! Justice for Breonna Taylor! The world is united in solidarity calling for social and economic changes in society.
Millions worldwide are participating in rallies, and these rallies are essential to continuing the conversation on relationships in America.
As I watch these rallies I am hopeful by seeing members from “Generation Z” who are organizing these peaceful demonstrations speak with great enthusiasm and passion. I am seeing positive people coming together as a community of one to support each other.
Every citizen should salute the village police departments, the Nassau County Police Department, and New York State Police for protecting those who will not give up their First Amendment right.
But, alas, now is not the time for high fives or pats-on-the-backs as there is real work to be done. We the people of this great republic of all races and genders must not go quietly into the night. We must not wrestle with our own sense of morality. Nor should we allow our personal relationships to impede our actions.
The time for action is now. We the people must demand public policy that removes any and all barriers which may prevent a person, regardless of race/creed/gender from achieving their potential.
We the people must support a cultural shift in this great nation to allow for more and greater interaction between Americans.
More so, policymakers should seek greater community engagement before they begin to draft potential legislation. Policymakers should build and develop community work groups to allow for maximum input into the policy.
They should review and discuss possibly holding academic institutions to a higher standard. They should encourage academic intuitions to review K-12 academic curricula to ensure students are being educated in a manner that helps to eliminate racism. They can work towards a better tomorrow by helping communities come together on common interests.
All Americans must refuse to accept any injustice, and we must commit ourselves to long term advocacy and civic participation for the good of our nation. To those who feel the way I do, I write Sláinte! For those who are still working it all out, I look forward toasting you when you arrive.
Matthew Hynes
Floral Park
