John,

Martin Luther King Jr. taught us that “whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” In other words: we’re all in this together. And we are.

Our nation today often feels inextricably divided — our politics too often are dominated by folks on the extremes who are more interested in tearing people apart than bringing them together.

It’s frustrating. It’s scary, even.

And it’s why Dr. King’s words are as important as ever.

We are facing huge challenges: an ongoing public health crisis, an eroding Middle Class, a changing climate, and, yes, persistent inequalities that continue to hurt communities of color. For too long, communities of color have been left out and left behind, and it will take sustained and focused effort to remedy the inequities that have resulted. We need to revitalize the economy and create new jobs and opportunities that lift everyone up and bring everyone along.

And our politics must meet the moment. Instead of pitting people against each other and making scapegoats of minorities, it’s incumbent upon our political leaders to set aside the politics of division while remembering themselves and reminding us all that we have so much more in common than what sets us apart. Because as Dr. King said, whatever affects one directly affects us all indirectly.

Thank you,

Josh Riley