failure of belief is why america fails

In the aftermath of bigotry, hate, and discrimination, a sentiment that is just as destructive is captured in these words…

I can’t believe it.

This phrase, or its pernicious cousins, is an automatic response to the trauma of watching racism, sexism, or any other -ism rear its head from those looking to rationalize its existence.

…that’s not who we are.

…I am shocked at the actions of a few.

…that’s not the america I know.

What I hear when these words are uttered, when this belief is espoused, isn’t strength, but weakness. I see fear, not courage. I feel anger, not solace. Because this sentiment, and others like it, is a reminder that america is a country in denial. We avoid the truth, and therefore we have not broken free from the cycle that limits us from truly being great. american tradition rests on the belief that every action, every moment in history, is defined by our exceptionalism. And when truth reminds america that this exceptionalism enslaved, raped, killed, stole, imprisoned, ignored, and abused, what we actually record in the annals of american history is the greatness defined by intention and ideals; meanwhile, we whitewash the blemishes, marks, and imperfections with a coat of primer so thick that the paint following…