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On Racism
By Bishop Andrew G. Grutka
It is essential that the barriers that are causing racial misunderstanding be broken down. Those of us that are Caucasian Americans can ask our Afro-American aquaintenances how it feels to be denies services of all kinds. We can inquire how restrictions in employment affect their families and particularly the incentive for further education of their children. We can learn the anguish they feel because of their inability to secure decent housing in more attractive neighborhoods. We can get to know about their frustrations and aspirations.
Those of us who are Afro-Americans might ask our White associates to describe their apprehensions and reservations. All the pitfalls of misunderstanding should be openly faced not for the sake of debate but with the idea of building solid bridges of mutual understanding. Only the open and free exchange of opinions can bring about the proper realization of the rights and responsibilities that bind all sides.
Possible demonstrations which are a part of our American heritage are being use to attract attention to their claims. As long as they serve a useful purpose under the guidance of responsible leadership they deserve our sympathetic attention and cooperation. Violence in any form is to be deplored. It only fans the flames or angry passions and stretches tension to the breaking point.
Let us examine our conscience. God never makes a mistake. Every human being created by him is here for a perfect reason. Comprehension of this truth will cause every individual to look at another with respect no matter what his condition. Where difference exist that seem to defy explanation, personal adjustment and resignation to the will of God is the only approach to a solution. On maters of racial injustice consciences should be examined frequently, attitudes aired and purified, emotions controlled and the mind kept open. Prejudice is a form of pride and like pride is seldom ever recognized by the possessor. The proud and the prejudiced man looks down on his fellow man and as long as he does is prevented from looking up to the God of mercy and compassion. The Father of us all.
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