Recently the NAACP released its first state travel advisory, warning that people of color should take caution while travelling through Missouri. This is a huge statement in the midst of mounting racial tension both within the state and the nation. After the many highly profiled race related incidents and even a travel ban for the US earlier in the year, this statement is not as surprising as it should be.
Unfortunately, today's world is heavily focused on the differences within society and all of the many labels that we place on individuals and groups. However, rather than letting this advisory become something that creates more fear and disharmony, this statement should be a catalyst for those from the state to be more conscious of their actions, but also to be more forthcoming with all of the good things and love that Missouri has to offer.
As a St. Louis native, I love my hometown and state but understand that it is far from perfect.
However, I also acknowledge the fact that the mainstream media tends to focus on the negatives that happen and not all of the amazing things that the community does to rally around each other in times of need. Discrimination exists, hate exists, and unfortunately many are still closed minded. But there are also amazing, selfless, and loving people that also call the "Show Me State" home. Not all parts of St. Louis are bad or dangerous either.
To everyone: the you that you are today affects the way that the world will turn tomorrow.
To my fellow Missourians: if we want to be recognized as a place where love is found and families flourish we have to be willing to go the extra mile to promulgate that ideal.
Maybe the damage has been done to the reputation of our home, but it is not irreparable. We are the ones who helped rebuild Joplin, raise money to give back to a wounded officer, who fundraised for Ferguson, and many other acts.
These should be the constant standard of behavior to which we hold ourselves and our state. We do not have to live up to what is said in this advisory. There is still time to prove that this does not have to be the way that we continue living. We can do better, we can educate further, and we can make a conscious effort in each of our own hearts to go the extra mile to love all of those around us.
