THE EDITOR, Madam:
THE STRUGGLE of people of African descent has come a long way. The entire black population of the Western Hemisphere is today far removed from the kind of racism that existed only 30 to 40 years ago. The 20th century was a time of true freedom struggle for us as a people.
The great civil rights leaders took the bull by the horns and lost their lives in the struggle. From the United States to Africa, Britain and Jamaica, great men and women went the distance to ensure that the next generation of black people would not be subjected to periodic lynching, unexplained beating or the deprivation of the most basic rights of a human being.
Martin Luther King Jr galvanised the black people of America in a fight against vicious racism. Racism explained with guns, dogs, money and the Bible. It was preached in churches on Sundays. Martin Luther King Jr used his pulpit to call on a different God. A God for equality and love for all.
The funny thing is that racism can only be practised by people who have doubts about their own self-esteem. It is not a sign of superiority but a clear indication of a feeling of inferiority and fear. Martin Luther King Jr referred to it in many of his speeches. He made clear references to the fact that racism affects both the racist and his/her prey.
Martin Luther King Jr impressed on the minds of all people the need for a rebirth. Black people at the time Dr. King spoke wanted to be treated like normal citizens of this world. It was a dream based on the knowledge that we are not superior to any but we are as good as all.
As we start to tackle the challenges of the 21st century, let us not lose focus of the message. The struggle to achieve the dream continues. It's a dual struggle. On one side we strive to stamp out racism in any form. We will not allow our rights to be trampled on again. On the other side we continue our own struggle. The struggle to maintain respect, love and appreciation to all decent citizens of this world. Citizens of any race, colour or creed.
Yesterday was the birthday of Dr. King, let us keep the dream alive. The dreams for a world where all men are treated equally, and allowed to developed to the highest level possible. We are obligated to our forefathers to carry on the struggle, and we are obligated to our children to keep the flame burning.
Belated Happy Martin Luther King Jr Day to you all.
I am etc.,
GIBBO
E-mail:
gibbbo@mailcity.com
St. Albans, New York
Via Go-Jamaica
