UNITE Oregon works to build a unified, intercultural movement for justice addressing racial profiling and hate crimes. Kayse Jama, Executive Director, discussed with Institute for Community Leadership delegates how we can become change makers in our communities, and how to engage diverse community members in civic engagement. Over time, inequity has broken down the trust and safety within our communities. It’s our time to stand up and be the people we are meant to be.
We discussed how this requires dismantling patterns and practices of racial profiling and inequity in our neighborhoods and cities.
The visit reminds us that throughout Dr. King’s life, he advocated for love despite constant setbacks, attacks, and death threats. We should learn from Dr. King’s legacy and love all those around us, especially our neighbors. When others are happy and we’re happy for them, it’s an unconditional kind of love. “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.