As the New Year unfolds, Dr. Allison Wiltz argues that America should adopt a resolution to confront its longstanding legacy of racism. This call to action is rooted in a tradition that dates back 4,000 years to Babylon, where resolutions were made to mark the new year. Wiltz highlights a 2020 Citigroup analysis that found closing racial gaps could potentially add $16 trillion to the U.S. economy, underscoring the economic imperative of addressing systemic racism. [fc4f019b]
Historical context is crucial in understanding the urgency of this resolution. The legacy of racism in America is marked by significant events such as the Civil War and the 1963 Birmingham church bombing, which serve as reminders of the ongoing struggle against racial injustice. Cultural icons like Harry Belafonte have also emphasized the need to persist in the fight against racism, indicating that this struggle is far from over. [fc4f019b]
Dr. Wiltz critiques the societal reluctance to engage in open discussions about racism, pointing out that systemic issues such as healthcare disparities and inequalities in the criminal justice system persist. She references Victor Schœlcher's 1842 quote, which calls for the rejection of justifications for discrimination, reinforcing the need for a collective commitment to change. The author advocates for consistent action rather than superficial gestures, urging Americans to make confronting racism a priority in 2025 and beyond. [fc4f019b]