Reflections on Unity and Division in America
I grew up in a family that holds faith in God and a love for America close to heart. From a young age, I was taught fundamental lessons about human dignity, long before bigotry and identity politics became prominent in society. The core belief—that we are one humanity—has always guided my family’s values and the civil rights movement.
My family background is, well, quite diverse. My grandmother’s lineage traces back to the west coast of Africa, while my grandfather came from Ireland. Additionally, my mother’s side contains Cherokee roots. Throughout my life, I’ve experienced firsthand that America isn’t just a mix of competing tribes; it’s meant to be one people united under God.
Take my uncle, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. He dedicated his life to teaching unity, not division. His message wasn’t about labeling people as oppressors or the oppressed. Instead, he urged us to elevate our views—to judge each other by our character, pursue justice without hate, and always acknowledge our shared humanity.
This brings me to a concerning trend I see now. The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) seems to play a significant role in deepening America’s divisions. Over the years, they’ve positioned themselves as a front-line defender against hate and extremism, yet recent allegations have thrown their credibility into question.
Allegations emerging from a federal indictment suggest that individuals linked to groups labeled as extremist by the SPLC have, astonishingly, received substantial financial payments—some reaching over a million dollars. These claims definitely require thorough examination.
Americans who donate their money to combat racism deserve transparency. Many genuinely believe they are contributing to a just cause, yet they should have clarity on how their funds are used. It’s essential that these organizations genuinely embody the values they advocate.
But the issues extend beyond finances. For a long time, the SPLC and similar entities have encouraged a troubling worldview, particularly among the youth. Instead of fostering understanding and shared experiences, they often promote a perspective steeped in racial conflict, overlooking our shared identity as Americans.
This is not the spirit that fueled the civil rights movement. That’s not what my uncle stood for.
As he famously said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness. Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.”
Having faced labels myself, I can say they rarely reflect the truth of who I am. I’ve even been labeled by the SPLC—so let me make it clear: I stand firmly against racism, hatred, and any form of supremacy that seeks to elevate one group over another.
The solution to racism is not more division. It lies in truth and love. I still dream that Americans will recognize one another as neighbors rather than adversaries. Acts 17:26 teaches us that we are of one blood, and science confirms we are one race. If we remember this fundamental truth, we can shape a future worthy of the sacrifices made by those before us.
