Today marks a significant point in the conversation about equality—whether we take steps forward or backward depends on how we approach these issues. There are people, both Black and white, who are skeptical about the dream of true equality for a variety of reasons. Within and across communities, debates about progress are causing divisions—not just within those groups, but among Americans.
It’s true that the Constitution, at the time it was written, didn’t fully include people of color. However, it didn’t explicitly aim to exclude everyone either. We must acknowledge that systemic racism exists and that inclusion is necessary, but inclusion shouldn’t mean “handouts.” Equality means fairness, not favoritism—this applies universally, regardless of political affiliation, religion, gender, or identity.
We must remember that we were all created equally—this idea is grounded not only in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream but also in a moral and spiritual sense. Division is the most effective way to destroy progress. To move forward, we must collectively step back and redefine what equality truly means. At its core, equality is about fairness and the recognition of shared humanity, as outlined in the Constitution and echoed in great speeches like Dr. King’s.
If we frame our perspectives with “because they’re Black,” “because they’re white,” “because they’re a woman,” or other such distinctions, we risk perpetuating the same cycles of division. We truly need forgiveness, mercy, and a commitment to seeing our diversity as a strength. Let’s continue marching, fighting, and challenging one another to grow into a better and more unified society.
