this sad day

Thank you to those of you who are able to express sadness and loss on this day, without oppressing others in turn.

This day is sad in so many ways, but my heart aches the most for the hate that has too often replaced authentic grief. I am devastated by how many of today's newscasts, headlines, and status updates contain racism, islamophobia, and hateful nationalism.

I deeply resent the fact that people (including myself) are labeled as un-American or un-patriotic when they express feelings or beliefs about this country's flaws. Ultimately, everything is flawed, but this country is my context and is therefore the main site of my dissent and my struggle for justice. I work to understand the many ways in which I have unearned privilege, and with it I share my beliefs and engage in activism with some degree of safety and freedom. I am aware that not everyone has this privilege. Some have said this should make me proud to be an American. It makes me angry. Safety and freedom should not be left to a bet that is won or lost based on geographical or social location of birth. Safety and freedom should not be stolen or purchased at the expense of any other community’s safety or freedom.

It is because I believe in the ability of humans to love that I am critical of our ability to hate.

This is where my mind is today: 1700% Project: Mistaken for Muslim. Kudos to artist Anida Yoeu Ali and filmmaker Masahiro Sugano for this piece, which includes portraits of American Muslims in Chicago, people who refuse to end in violence. (Thanks to my brother for sharing this back in June).

Also, check out The 1700% Project.
The number 1700% refers to the exponential percentage increase of hate crimes against Arabs, Muslims and those perceived to be Arab or Muslim since the events of September 11, 2001.

I hope we can grieve and mourn today, but ultimately love one another and embrace our humanity. We do terrible things when we are motivated by hate and fear. We can do great things when we are motivated by love.