Often, people say with pride, "we have come so far," regarding racism and equality. That statement is an irony in itself because if society had been acting upon godly principles from the start, racism would never have been a problem. Unfortunately, the foundation for racism is sin so it will never be completely eradicated.
The strong religious community present here in the islands is our foundation for continued positive change. Local politicians holding town meetings which exacerbate the already high racial tensions is not in our best interest. Open discussions prior to proper and thorough investigations compound problems for authorities.
There is no excuse for allowing racism to permeate our island and society, yet it festers like an infected wound. There is only one-way to overcome the pride and anger that exists in racism: The love of Christ! As believers, we must stand against the hatred and intolerance that doesn't allow people to be unique and beautiful in their differences. I even loathe using the word "intolerance" because one race should never "tolerate" another; the use of that term suggests an air of superiority that should not exist.
If residents of our islands could see themselves and others through the loving eyes of God the Father, there would be no room for the kind of hatred necessary for racism to thrive. So, living free of racial tensions begins with each individual.
In your heart and in your home the need to spread the love of Christ to every person regardless of color, nationality or even religion is the best positive action to be taken. Then, and only then, will people begin to recognize the importance of each resident of the Virgin Islands and their contributions empowering all of us. The love of Jesus Christ in our daily lives.
One Virgin Islands resident's opinion.
Larry Boecker
St. Thomas
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