As a member of the Community Action Partnership, Missouri CAN stands in unison with the Partnership’s statement denouncing racism and calling on all Americans to take action to address the systemic injustices that have plagued our nation for far too long. Words are no longer enough; we must take action now to end racism in all its forms. 

“While many have engaged in social media activism in response to the atrocities, we are calling for everyone to move beyond the keystrokes of media devices and to do more. It’s not enough to feign verbal and distant support for non-racist causes. We must move beyond that into constructive anti-racist action that might even cause us to have to sacrifice the comfort or advantage that some of us have.”

Almost 56 years ago, Community Action was born as part of the civil rights movement, and we continue to denounce all forms of violence and any acts that dehumanize anyone. We know that change requires action. Here are some simple actions you can take address systemic injustices of racism:

Look Outward

– Read books written by people who have different lived experiences than you to broaden your awareness of the perspectives of other people. 

– When you see racist behaviors, call it out in a respectful and peaceful way. 

– Use your sphere of influence to create change. For example: email your company’s leadership to ask how they corporately fight against racial biases, talk with your friends and family, hold a discussion group with your PTA, post on your social media platforms. 

Look Inward 

– Consider your personal motivations and internal biases.

– Think about the impact of your words and adjust accordingly so as not to perpetuate racist language. 

– Adjust behaviors to show kindness and compassion to people of different races.

– Vote for people who exhibit compassion for all races and policies that dismantle racism.