Can America Handle the Truth On Race? : Vivie Behrens (Period 6, Week 2)

     As Martin Luther King Jr. Day is upon us, we are forced to question, as journalist, Eric Liu, puts it, "Can America handle the truth on race?" It has been 150 years since slavery was rendered illegal in America, and still, there is prevalent racial tension in this country, as well as horrifyingly violent incidences that have caused underlying racial disputes to reemerge to the surface today. Liu references former South African President, Nelson Mandela, and his steps to create peace between the races after the end of apartheid. Mandela chose to recognize the horrific deeds committed against blacks by gathering testimonies around the country that showed mistreatment of black people and inviting the perpetrators to account for his or her deeds. Only after this mistreatment is recognized can justice be served and reconciliation be made possible. Even after Reconstruction and Civil Rights Movements, black and white people have not received the same treatment or opportunities in America. MLK Day gives this country a reminder and an excuse to reevaluate our moral principles and take steps for eternal reconciliation and equality between all races in America.
     This article directly references how neither the Reconstruction Acts after the Civil War or Voting Rights Act of 1865, both significant strides in the journey towards equality, have not signified the end of the racial battles in America. America is still faced with prevailing racism spanning our entire country. Our job, as American citizens, is to live up to the democratic principles on which our nation was founded, and demand for equality for all citizens, no matter one's race.

Source:
http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/18/opinion/liu-mlk-day-truth-and-reconciliation/index.html