Open letter in response to John Bledsoe’s column

We are sending this open letter as a response to John Bledsoe’s piece entitled “What Is the Cause of the Rioting?” As the author of the article mentions Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we start by mentioning it is in the spirit of Dr. King’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail which denounced “appalling silence” regarding racism that we compose this letter.

We affirm the dignity, inherent worth, and voices of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color).

We recognize that though racism looks different than it did in the 1960s, it is no less prevalent, sinister or damaging today. We also recognize that there are many forms of racism present within the United States of America, and that some of those forms are sadly similar to or the same as in the 1960s.

We affirm the sanctity of Black life. We recognize the complexity inherent in the subject of rioting and the role of trauma in reactions which may not be understood by many. We recognize the long history of and ongoing problem of racism in this country which continue to traumatize BIPOC citizens.

We denounce racism in all of its forms. As many of us are therapists, social workers and other helping professionals, we are called (and required by our ethical codes) to work toward social justice and advocate for marginalized people. We are disturbed by the racist language and biased tone within this column which seeks to discount BIPOC voices and experiences.

We encourage readers to join us in the work of anti-racism. One can start by reading books and articles, listening to podcasts and watching films that engage with the topic. Many lists are currently available through a simple internet search or contacting your librarian.

We agree that we do need to listen to each other, but that begins by listening to BIPOC voices. We recognize that this may be uncomfortable for some, but as helping professionals, we are committed to journeying with people willing to do difficult work and committed to supporting those impacted by racism in this country.

Signed,