“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” James Baldwin shared these profound words as part of an essay published in 1962 for The New York Times. Having recently released Embrace Boston’s Harm Report, the resonance of Baldwin’s words in today’s context is striking. In this moment, where we are reliving the Charles Stuart Case, the anniversary of Boston’s busing crisis of 1974 and the Big Dig history, now is the time to face our recent history together.
Baldwin’s wisdom underscores the impetus behind the creation of our Harm Report. We believe that to address today’s issues effectively, we must first comprehensively understand and acknowledge the landscape. The aim of this report is twofold: to serve as a catalyst for solution-based strategies and to inspire deeper study. Through the identification of seven harm areas related to systemic racism, we provide a framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of racial oppression, the contemporary harm experienced by Black Bostonians, and the enduring consequences.
In an era where misinformation is wielded as a divisive political tool, the importance of accurate information cannot be overstated. We aim to transition the discourse from anecdotal perceptions to empirical realities. And, while we may have personal experiences with racism in the city, it is imperative to contextualize these within a broader framework to propel meaningful action forward. It empowers our stories by uniting. It creates the power of “we.” We make progress towards a more equitable future when we genuinely understand our current position. This examination of the state of Black Boston is indispensable for the betterment of all its residents.
One of the most pervasive misconceptions about racial equality is the notion that it is a unilateral gift bestowed upon oppressed racial groups, which neglects to acknowledge its universal benefits. This perspective is deeply flawed, as it fails to center our shared humanity. The reality is that we all suffer from the ramifications of racism, and conversely, we all stand to gain from fostering an inclusive community.
We must recognize — and monumentalize in our collective consciousness — that the current plight of Black Americans in the United States is intricately intertwined with the historical legacy of racism. Racism permeates nearly every aspect of society. Our collective well-being is contingent upon addressing these systemic issues.
Insights shared by our keynote speaker at last year’s Embrace Ideas Festival, author Heather McGhee, highlighted this idea. McGhee’s illuminating book, “The Sum Of Us,” provides a foundational understanding of how racism exacts economic, social and political tolls on both individuals and society at large. McGhee argues that racism not only inflicts harm on people of color, but also imposes significant economic costs on society as a whole. It creates a poverty of empathy and zero-sum thinking. This type of zero-sum thinking reinforces the white supremacy and replacement theory.
Realizing our aspirations for Boston necessitates engaging in genuine and sometimes difficult conversations. We must scrutinize all facets of our community to chart a path forward. While it may not be easy or comfortable, it is undoubtedly worthwhile.
In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.”
Imari Paris Jeffries is president and CEO of Embrace Boston.
