E Pluribus Unum. One from many. Our national motto. Reflective
of who we are as a nation. As a people.
I love this thought. It lifts me up. There is a sense of
soaring with this idea. So many of us – 330 million – all living and working as
Americans. Each in his/her own way, time and action.
Living, loving, working, hoping. Each of us. All of us. But as
one? Really?
I don’t think evidence demonstrates this. If we are one why
are federal unmarked troops policing Portland, Oregon’s streets without
authority or local request? Why are demonstrations – not protests – for Black
Lives Matter attacked and counter protested? Why are domestic terror
groups active in our nation? Why do police continue to mistreat people of color
when policing the streets? Why do we have countervailing newscasts on several
channels?
I was raised believing diversity matters. Different ideas
and voices strengthen the whole of our nation, society and people. Diversity is
a strength of America, but many voices are currently broadcasting the opposite.
Even the White House labors to discount diversity.
How did this come about? Freedom of speech is supposed to
strengthen us, not destroy. Freedom of assembly is supposed to strengthen us,
not invite attack and violence. Pursuit of happiness is supposed to make each
of us full and free human beings, not competing, angry detractors.
What is happening to us?
Are we one? If not, how do we return to that essential core
of who we are that strengthens us all?
July 23, 2020
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