We know as a people committed to justice that America is guilty on all counts of white supremacy. This is why we fight for black lives. There are too many times and too many days when that fight feels like a losing battle. We can say the names George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Daunte Wright, Adam Toledo, and so many more, but we can not bring them back. It is not in spite of but because of this reality that we must pause today in celebration.
Perhaps you have spent this year in the space between tears and righteous anger. Perhaps today you spilled tears that shook with righteous hope. Not only did other police officers testify against Derek Chauvin, the jury convicted on second-degree murder. If this verdict stands on appeal, it has the power to change American jurisdiction.
As the poet Joy Harjo says: “Keep us from giving up in this land of nightmares which is also the land of miracles.”
Dear Community, I know you fight for days like today. I know that your bodies are on the line as are your souls. This is a victory that calls a bit of heaven into the hell of American racism. May you hold that heaven close and let it tend your aching spirit. And if you are looking for a way to shout, pray and praise, we suggest this piece from our UUCM music vault: Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Round.
Yours in faithful community,
Rev. Anya, Rev. Scott, Intern Ali, Judith Hogan, Markus Grae-Hauck