Valerie Parham-Thompson: Was it a racist decision?
I’ve heard from a few people who cast their ballot for Donald Trump that it was not an implied vote for racism. I choose to believe them, that they do not support racism.
Despite our differences of opinion on things such as taxes, immigration and trade policies, I choose to believe that Americans are not widely racist. I choose to believe that the actions we’ve seen this week are fringe groups, and that the core of America believes in rights and equality for all.
We need to hear it from them, though. Please, say that they do not support racial violence or intimidation. Especially if they are a supporter of Trump, say it. Especially within their communities – in their schools and churches and neighborhoods – say it. Say it out loud in their social media accounts. Say it even to their brother-in-law at Thanksgiving dinner.
They are strong, and I believe them when they say it. I want to hear it.
Valerie Parham-Thompson
Durham
This story was originally published November 16, 2016 at 9:17 PM with the headline "Valerie Parham-Thompson: Was it a racist decision?."