Many Caucasians asked the question: 

“What can we do to help? or What do you need from me?”

In an effect to simplify a very complicated and complex answer, I requested permission from Pastor David Hawkins, Living the Word Church,  to use his Sunday Morning Sermon as a guide to provide answers to these questions. 

My motive is simply to help those who sincerely want to know. The information provided by Pastor Hawkins was profound and thought provoking.  In 8 short minutes he was able to provide a condensed list of responses African Americans need and don’t need from Caucasian. 

Understanding the time and focus it takes to read a book, I compiled Pastor Hawkins’ list and provided a video link below.  Will you take 8 minutes of your time to listen? George Floyd was in a knee choke-hold longer than the video.  I believe this captures what we want to say and provides beneficial insight to you. 

“What We Need and Don’t Need from Caucasians:”

Responses We Need

1. Listen with unadulterated thoughts – be open to hear truth without bias or defense
2. Exercise your voice to shut down the conversations or acts of disparagement against African Americans 
3. Be intentional about inclusion – not to meet a quota – but to include African Americans at the tables of power and decision-making for the greater cause
4. Take Action – don’t be silent and outrage – Use your power to do something!
5. Advocate intentional hiring and job promotion. Place qualified African Americans in positions of power. Instead of requiring candidates to overly prove the value and worth they bring to the table – give equity and equality; this provides an opportunity to empower African American communities

Responses We DON’T Need

1. “I have a Black friend.” Having black friends doesn’t disqualify you from having racist views. Your Black friend is not an absolution to the problem of racism
2. An unity candle vigil with the hidden motive of a photo opp. We need real dialogue for change
3. “Let’s wait for the full report.” This translates to “Guilty until proven Innocent.” It defends and justifies the wrongful acts of the offender 
4. Discovering a statement or video of ONE Black person refuting the injustice of the matter. One Black voice doesn’t nullify the millions of other voices crying injustice. Don’t create a place for denial, excuses and withdrawal from the truth.
5.  “They had a history or criminal record.” Who doesn’t? It’s totally absurd to believe African Americans should have a perfect record or history in order for you to see the injustice. How would you feel if the mistakes you made, became the basis for abuse and mistreatment of you for the rest of your life?   
6. “I want all of this to go away.” So do we. We are tired: emotionally, physically and mentally. Welcome to the 365/24/7 days of Black lives
7. “It was ONE bad officer.” It’s not just once incident; this a a recurring reality. We aren’t ant-police, we’re anti-police unlawfulness and brutality. In life, there are certain industries that simple CANNOT have bad apples: the police force is one of them. Let’s not defend the actions of wrong- hold them accountable to the same laws and prosecute the injustice. 

Thank you for taking time to ask the hard questions and read what we need from you. We simply want to be valued, respected and treated equally.  

The Declaration of Independence boldly claims: 

All men are created EQUAL and are endowed by the Creator with certain unalienable rights. LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE FAIR PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS…

Click here for the video from Pastor David Hawkins