Racism is not a right

Let’s get this out on the table right up front. Racism is not a right.

In spite of what white supremacists would like us to believe, the United States Constitution does not justify racism. There is nothing in Christian doctrine that justifies racism. Quite simply, racism is an ugly and hateful crime. And those who actively practice it are criminals.

Racism is based on fear and greed. It is a way for selfish people to justify the domination and exploitation of Black, Indigenous, People of Color. It was used to justify the kidnapping and enslavement of African people. It was used to justify genocide against Indigenous American people. It was used to justify the internment of Asian Americans. It has been used to justify the exploitation of Hispanic and Latino people. And it continues to be used to justify the murder of Black Americans by police.

Americans take pride in the First Amendment to our Constitution. It allows white supremacists to share their beliefs. Taking action on those beliefs, however, is a crime against the rights of other Americans. Any American who infringes on or jeopardizes the rights of other Americans should face the consequences of their illegal behavior.

We can’t legislate away racist beliefs, but we can and must criminalize racism.