Let's think about it for a minute: to break the resurgence of racism and injustice that has taken hold in our society, we must radically change something today for a better tomorrow. The most effective way to do this is to properly educate the next generation: today’s children will be tomorrow’s adults; they will be the ones who will decide whether they want to continue to stand by in silence as events unfold, or whether to say enough is enough and initiate change. This is why, as parents, whenever we witness an act of racism, exclusion, or for that matter, any kind of injustice, we must use our power. Not only must we ourselves become activists, but we must also activate our children by educating them in such a way as to put an end to this cycle of hate, and make sure that these acts and this mentality become a thing of the past.
Being a parent can be a very powerful form of activism: committing yourself to raising anti-racist children, who are aware of injustices and cheerleaders of social rights is a small ripple that, over time can make big waves and help us all grow far beyond the social evils that mar our history.
It is no coincidence that the last words of George Floyd, the black man whose killing in Minneapolis in May 2020 sparked anti-racist protests, were: "Mom". Parents play a very important role in their children's lives, and can change the fate of their future. Not only that: all parents are united by the same love, sense of protection, and hopes for their children. This common thread that binds us as parents will help us all act together to bring about change.
The cornerstone for change is what the author calls Radical Love: the commitment to supporting others in their struggle, using one's privileges in society to amplify messages and make the world more just for everyone. Furthermore, Radical Love ultimately comes down to the principle that we are all connected and united in the fight against injustice, and the way one person’s child is brought up has an influence on the upbringing of another.
If all parenting was based on Radical Love and on parenting as a form of activism, the next generation would undoubtedly be healthier and more compassionate.
