All discrimination an urgent matter

Re: “Let’s focus on what matters now” (Letters, July 18)

I was saddened by the somewhat condescending letter. Far from being a kind old soul with good intentions, I am a real person with years of experience in this area. That includes attending the memorable march at Selma, Alabama in the 1960s. I was humbled and honoured to receive the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in recognition of my fight against discrimination of any kind.

I am fully involved with the Black Lives Matter movement, and it should be noted discussions are being held internationally to widen its focus. This in no way suggests we dilute it.

Sadly, we do not live in a world where “it goes without saying that all lives matter.” We cannot focus on one thing at a time. Justice is not selective and we should not triage discrimination. No kind of discrimination must be put on the back burner.

If the letter-writer had ever had to officiate at the funeral of a 12-year-old boy who had struggled with gender identity, was bullied at school and whose parents did not listen until he hanged himself, she might then understand why all lives matter NOW. His father committed suicide later. Did these lives not matter then? How will we decide whose turn it is next?

Marches and painting slogans are not enough. We must examine why we have the need to discriminate and see the pain that this inflicts and then cease to do it. Then make an effort to treat all people with understanding and respect. Only then will wholeness happen, individually and as a society.

I hope the writer is never being treated for a serious disease and falls and breaks a hip. The doctor says, “One thing at a time, that which matters now.” And the hip is untreated.

Rev. Dr. Lettie James, Lachine