Following their lead

A few people gather on the Green ahead of the graduation parade in Woodstock, Vermont, on Friday. Young people have played a major role in protests for racial justice. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

“I follow his lead.” Those words were spoken by Rev. Leon Dunkley at the Black Lives Matter rally in Woodstock, Vermont, last Tuesday. And they are the words I remember most from that afternoon, because he was referring to Tripp Overbay, a third-grader who has rallied his community around stopping racism and taking action for justice.

It was an impactful recognition of the courage of the young people who have powered this new movement for justice, equality and unity after George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. We need their voices, and we need them every day, in order to stay focused on participating in this national push for change. As Tripp and others have said, part of that push will be in smaller steps which lead to the larger goal. 

One of those steps — and a hugely important one — is education, learning about what led us here. It is essential for white people like myself to understand the problem, to understand why life in the U.S. is different for our brothers and sisters of color. That is foundational to national progress on this issue, because one must understand a problem, in order to help resolve it and inspire others to do the same. 

This week, I took great inspiration from PBS NewsHour’s Friday coverage of the Black Lives Matter movement through the eyes of young Americans. One segment featured video statements by teenagers about the racial justice movement, and one important theme was conversations. Talking with family and friends about the tough issues, though sometimes difficult, will be key as the country tries to move forward. It is part of the path toward real understanding. 

I’m proud to say, I think many Vermonters are heading down that path, but of course, there is a vast amount of work to be done, here and throughout the country. It includes addressing injustices in housing, education, government and a host of other parts of society. But I’m greatly encouraged by the younger generations who are propelling us forward, and I hope more and more Americans will follow their lead, with love and compassion underpinning the work. Change is putting down roots. It’s time to help them grow.

— Gareth Henderson