The Unexpected Gifts of 2020
The year 2020 brought a series of devastating events that exposed deep-rooted racial inequities and white supremacy in America. The global pandemic disproportionately harmed communities of color, while racial injustice and police violence sparked widespread protests. Events like the deaths of innocent Black lives at the hands of law enforcement and the January 6th Capitol insurrection revealed the stark contrast between how white supremacists and Black Lives Matter protesters were treated. For many, this unveiled the harsh reality of systemic racism and white supremacy that had long been hidden.
Despite the pain, 2020 also offered valuable lessons. It illuminated the undeniable presence of racism in every facet of society, from healthcare to policing, and motivated more people and organizations to take anti-racism work seriously. As more Americans began to recognize the importance of equity, inclusion, and belonging (EIB), businesses, healthcare providers, and communities increasingly prioritized dismantling white supremacy. However, the journey ahead requires an end to the widespread "basic denial of experience," where the voices and realities of marginalized people are dismissed. The events of 2020 should be a call to action for all of us to continue learning, listening, and fighting for meaningful change.