“One of the challenges is that our shared values have become buried under an avalanche of issues that divide us, such that we lost sight of what we actually do hold in common.” — Dr. Vivek Murthy
“Despite our best efforts and highest hopes, America’s long struggle with race is far from finished.” — Hillary Clinton
“Our nation is moving toward two societies, one black, one white—separate and unequal.” — Kerner Commission Report
“A riot is the language of the unheard.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
“They want us to be afraid… Their aim is to divide us all!” — Kamand Kojouri
These were
supposed to
be our days
to come together
to unite and
to embrace empathy
Instead
we fought and faced
curious choices between
forced freedoms and
reasonable restraint
And networked figures
convinced followers
that faith in science
and living responsibly
was a sign
of fear
And we turned
our phones
against our neighbors
to document and denounce
those who made excuses
to unmask
posting and spreading
their sin
spreading their shame
And saying
Black Lives Matter
somehow devalued
the worth of all souls
And holding all
police to the highest
standards meant
you were not
a patriot
Some cried
to open businesses
and schools
yet closed hearts
to those forced
to risk lives
to just do
their jobs
And online
agitators continued 'gramming
tweeting
TikToking to trigger
and to troll
the slushiest snowflakes
And they continued
pushing lies
Big Lies
meant to breed
burn and boil
If only we would
listen and learn
instead of
squawk and spew
We are blessed with
a new day
a new choice
a new tomorrow
Will we join
fractured forces
eager to undermine
pleas to unite?
or
Will we listen?
will we learn?
will we love?
We have a choice
Will it get better?
5 Ways to Help a Divided Community Unite
- Foster Open Dialogue: Encourage respectful conversations through community forums and town halls to build understanding across differences. Source
- Establish Common Goals: Collaboratively set goals that align with community needs, creating a shared vision for success. Source
- Engage in Community Service: Participate in projects that unite individuals from diverse backgrounds around common objectives. Source
- Promote Media Literacy: Equip citizens with tools to critically evaluate media and identify misinformation, fostering informed communities. Source
- Invest in Social Infrastructure: Support public spaces like libraries and parks that encourage inclusive community interactions. Source
These Were Meant to Be Moments of Unity
These were the days when we had a chance to stand together in the face of crisis.
Yet too often, we fractured. We pointed fingers. We let voices that divided us speak louder than those that called for community.
It is not too late to choose differently.
Listening, learning, and leading with care are civic duties we owe to one another—especially now.
The future will ask us what we did with this moment.
Will we answer?