Reparations Means not being afraid of the Harsh Realities of Race

I must be fair. By now, it should be clear that I am a supporter of Senator Obama. However just as one should not be labeled un-patriotic for criticizing America, I should not be labeled anti-Obama now that I will criticize him.

Reparations means not being afraid of the harsh realities of race. Reverend Jeremiah Wright said, "God damn America..." until she treats her people fairly. Now, what is wrong with that? The Bible states that we will all be damned if we mistreat those who have been placed in our care.

In the Gospel of Luke, chapter 12, verses 42-48 our Lord says:

I'm talking to any faithful, sensible servant to whom the master gives the responsibility of managing his household and feeding his family. If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. I assure you, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns. But if the servant thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' and begins oppressing the other servants, partying, and getting drunk – well, the master will return unannounced and unexpected. He will tear the servant apart and banish him with the unfaithful. The servant will be severely punished, for though he knew his duty, he refused to do it. But people who are not aware that they are doing wrong will be punished only lightly. Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given.

America is a blessed land - much has been given to us. And, if we believe Christ - much is thus required. So, how can we condemn Reverend Jeremiah Wright for stating the prevalence of racism in America?

Is it not true that this Country has been oppressive? Has not America oppressed Native Americans, Blacks, Chinese, Japanese, Hispanics, and even the Irish, Jews and Italians? Are not people still oppressed by crippling government programs, unjust applications of the law, poor education, poor health care and poor housing - among others? Is America smart enough to know that people are suffering? Raise your hand if you think this Country is really blind to the sufferings of people and the stark racial disparities affecting our society. Or, do you feel they simply turn a blind eye?

These issues obviously still strike chords; otherwise, Jeremiah Wright's comments would not be such a huge story. So, if these issues still strike chords - Senator Obama - are we really bringing change to America if we give in to the pressure?

Reparations means not being afraid of the harsh realities of race. Reparations means not backing down from the truth. As free men and women, we should be able to speak our minds without being condemned. Criticize him - yes, but condemn?

For Barack Obama to step away from Jeremiah Wright is almost as if he stepped away from our struggle. His previous stance in the face of the Clinton juggernaut was one commanding respect and instilling pride. This shift of stance stinks of the kowtowing of yesteryear, when Blacks could not say anything that might offend White people.

Reparations means not being afraid of the harsh realities of race. And, those realities are at times offensive. Yet, this has always been - is, and will always be - larger than Barack Obama. And, despite this let down the movement for reparations must continue. So, we continue to support Senator Obama for the sake of the dialogue that's provoked - in hopes that further progress may be made towards our goal.

For further perspectives check out The Root

Come and Get Your Reparations!