As has become my tradition during MLK week each year, I have once again read Dr. King’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail. This time I also read the letter from the white Alabama clergymen that prompted it. It’s unfortunate how relevant this exchange still is today. Here is what I want to reflect on after reading it this year:
- In what ways does American society today resemble that of April 1963?
- In what ways do I think and act like the white “law and order” clergyman? Have I ever been bothered by “outsiders” pointing out how I and my community still engage in racist practices? How does this attitude inhibit the work of racial reconciliation and justice?
- In what ways do I think like Dr. King and others who engaged in civil disobedience? How have I felt about the direct actions in which I have participated?
- What promises have I, my community, my institutions or the governments that represent me made to marginalized people that we have not kept?
- What laws am I currently bound by that I feel are immoral or unjust?
- Have I implicitly or explicitly encouraged marginalized folks to wait or be patient as they push for equal rights?
- What will it take to convince the white moderates Dr. King describes that a positive peace is much preferable to a negative peace and that it’s worth actively pursuing?
- What racial tensions already exist under the surface in my community? How can they be brought into the light so the healing process can begin?
- Which religious traditions and congregations in my community are actively working for the full and equal participation of ALL people in society without exceptions or qualifications? Which non-religious groups are?
- Given my talents, relationships, roles, and constraints, how can I best support these efforts? (How can I be a “creative extremist” for love?)
Kevin Daum 