Shirley Sherrod: "In our struggle between the 'haves' and the 'have-nots,' they want to keep the poor divided - and we have to insist, by our words and our actions, that there is no difference between us."
Ousted Agriculture Department employee Shirley Sherrod listens during a panel discussion at the National Association of Black Journalists, 07/29/10. (photo: Gregory Bull/AP)
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Thanks for publishing the words of this dedicated and loving woman. The lesson that has been missed in the reporting about this event is that we all must uncover and admit our own racism in order to be free of it. Sherrod's courageous self-disclosure was summarily crushed, but the redemption that followed should make us all feel safer to admit our own faults and break-throughs. The finger that we so easily point at others needs to be directed at ourselves in an act of self-reflection. This event has the potential for positive cultural change if that idea could gain acceptance in mass consciousness. As a now-respected main-stream media progressive pundit (bet you didn't expect that that would happen!), I hope you will pass that message on.
With great respect and affection,
Ron Iverson
"That very night, I made a commitment that I would stay in the South and fight for change." WE must all find the courage and wherewithall to fight. When union members are attacked by the media, when workers go on strike we must stand 'shoulder to shoulder' in support. We must confront the lies. The other day I had jury duty and a local Sacto station was doing a story on the state claiming the state pays $150 for a state worker to change a light bulb. Call the station and you will find out the reporter can't tell you where the figure comes from or the math behind it. She just reads the copy. Confront the Goebbels school of journalism that seems to have trained so many of our 'reporters.' Buy products with a union label. Do what you can, when you can. My daughter started a conversation with someone on the lightrail about the positive aspects of unions. Others joined in. Don't waste a minute. Above all remember that solidarity works.
Thank you. I'm honored by your work on every American's behalf. The biggest tragedy is that so many Americans don't understand that you are a Champion for us all. Your wisdom and actions humble and inspire me. Yesterday, it was announced that Pakistan needed half a billion dollars for relief. Not one multi-billionaire wrote a check. There is a difference in hearts. I love you.
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