Everyone is a loser in the destructive aftermath of
the Ferguson jury decision.
We have contributed to this decision by building an unjust
system, by exacerbating racial discrimination consciously, unconsciously, or
subconsciously, and more importantly to me as a Buddhist, by being unaware as we
attribute virtues, kindness, intellect, or leadership in those who are more
attractive, more privileged, and more fair.
Studies point out that the halo effect, the height
premium, white privilege, and other differentials lead to differential
treatment, some extreme.
From the Buddhist perspective, it would be too easy
to call all this karma and simply ask you to accept it! In that case, we would be dismissing a prophetic
opportunity to create future karma and collective karma that call for more sensitivity
and impartiality.
While a technical fix such as a body camera that the
Michael Brown family implores us to help them legislate may seem like a quick
fix, I would ask all of us to take a fresh look at the way we treat others.
Together we have contributed to the current state of race relations in America,
and together we must improve it.
To a Buddhist like myself, the solution is not
in policies or politics, but in my daily interactions. Do I notice myself
paying more attention to my cuter niece? Do I assume that the pretty woman at
my door is here for compassionate engagement or meditation rather than to complain?
Do I quietly comply with the commands of the tall white man rather than
question them because he represents the powerful status quo?
We have an opportunity to make a difference here.
Our prophetic voice and actions require us to pause and reflect on our deeply
ingrained discriminating inclinations first. Only when such acute awareness
translates into consistently kind intention and interactions will we have truly
made a difference for all of us who are in some respect like Michael Brown.