Lori Archer Raible
“Dear Ones, I rarely raise my voice on social media these days. Please know that this is not a political statement, but a personal one.
This morning, I spent four hours running ‘safety patrol’ as part of an initiative here in Charlotte to ‘help working families get to school, work and church.’ Today I witnessed a young man, perhaps he was 19 or 20, walking down a sidewalk in Charlotte. Three SUV’s swept in beside him before he could notice. Passersby began to honk their horns, including me. Their doors flew open, he noticed and ran. The vehicles chased him through the front yard of a nearby home. He was violently abducted by a large team of armed men wearing masks. It was terrifying. I can’t imagine how the young man must have felt. A few thoughts as I process what I witnessed.
#1. Regardless of our varying political perspectives about immigration reform, that’s not what this is. Why are they violent? Why are they wearing masks? This boy was just walking down the street. He was racially profiled. He could be a citizen, he could have proper documentation, he could lack proper documentation. They had no idea, nor did they ask.
#2. My grandmother is a Jewish holocaust survivor. In Europe, people were forced to wear yellow stars to identify themselves as Jews. Her stories of the gestapo breaking into their businesses and homes are horrifying. Today in Charlotte, neighbors are being snatched off the streets based on how they look.
#3. To be clear, I did not help anyone go to school, church, or work today. Every door is locked, businesses are closed, children are staying home, but I know what I saw. As a person of faith, sometimes it is important to ‘bear witness.’ When a variety of truths are coexisting and fellow humans are under siege, we are called to pay attention. My actions and words are driven by my personal conviction of faith as I pray for an end to this violence in our city.
What can we do?
1. Frequent Latino owned businesses!
2. Donate money, food, or grocery gift cards for families who cannot work or leave their homes safely. Congregations, food pantries, and other organizations near you can be found online.
3. Be alert! Keep your eyes open. If you witness an abduction, try to bring attention to what is happening and record the incident.
4. Choose love and kindness. Act according to your personal convictions of faith for the common good.
Please let me know if you need help finding a way to engage that is right for you, and pray for our city.”