Brent Zuercher's Letters Across The Divide

Introduction

Letters Across the Divide is a book detailing the candid conversations between two friends conferring about a very controversial and "hot" topic; racism. This paper will explore the subject of racism and racial reconciliation from the author's perspective. It will ascertain is racism still exists and provide details how the racial divide impact reconciliation. The issue of race and racism in America has been a long standing "bone of contention" for many people, due to the level of sensitivity surrounding the matter. The paper will also highlight barriers caused by racism, solutions to racial reconciliation and provide my "take-away" perspective from the reading assignment. We are called to love and accept everyone; regardless

of race, religion, sex, or cultural differences. In order for the framework of racial reconciliation to pick up momentum, relationships must be developed along the multicultural continuum. Relationships that are forged in sincere love and understanding for one another.

Extrapolation Letters Across the Divide (2001) is a poignant account of conversations between the book's authors, long time friends and brothers in Christ; David Anderson and Brent Zuercher. Their frank discussions, communicated through letters, broached a subject most people feel uncomfortable discussing; racism. Racism is a topic that can embroil people into verbal combatants, causing their emotions to erupt and spew like Mount Pinatubo. What makes the conversations interesting is the dialogue transpires between friends of different ethnicities. David is an African American senior pastor, and Brent a Caucasian certified public accountant.
Prior to initiating their discourse the friends grappled with defining racism; a word that conjures up different meanings depending upon whom you ask.

Their intent was twofold, construct a foundation for mutual understanding and ascertain if racism still exists. Brent Zuercher (2001), indicated in today's society when asked "Does racism exist?" two contrasting viewpoints surface; the "white" and "black" perspectives. The white perspective contends racism is moot, it does not exist and is an issue they (whites) care not to discuss. In the black perspective; blacks view racism as a significant matter and needs to be addressed (Anderson & Zuercher, 2001). Unfortunately, the authors were unable to derive a shared meaning for racism, but jointly agreed regardless of society's stance, racism is prevalent

today.

In Letters Across the Divide, David and Brent emerge as unofficial spokesmen for their respective ethnic groups.

Each voicing outlooks, opinions and beliefs on a myriad of concepts related to the racial divide between blacks and whites. At times wrestling with conflicting views on racism and racial issues; occasionally drawing a fine line between the two. The contrasting standpoints are a result of elements encapsulating their cultural identities. Components such as race, education, upbringing, socialization, and social economic status. These same elements cause a racial divide among blacks, whites and other multicultural groups. For some blacks the emotional scars of slavery have not healed over time. Instead, it is a gaping wound as fresh today as it was almost 150 years ago. The emotional fallout from this era of American history has caused bitterness, mistrust and inequality for blacks. David and Brent's conversations probe delicate issues ranging from; "Why are blacks so angry?"and "Racial reconciliation." Topics many might hesitate mentioning in mixed company, much less to engage in a personal exchange. The primary assertion of the book; racial reconciliation, affirmed interaction and relationships with diverse individuals is the way to support reconciliation (Anderson & Zuercher,

2001).

Written from an African American and Caucasian viewpoint, the book addresses issues and principles that can be applied across the multicultural group continuum. To develop relationships interaction is a vital principle to employ. Interaction and building interpersonal relationships with diverse cultures compels individuals out of their comfort zone. It can forge communication, behaviors and attitudes to change, and cultivate trust. However, blacks and whites are still angry with one another. Blacks angry because of past injustices committed by whites, and whites irritated because blacks remain angry even though changes have been made. Many Blacks are lingering onto an unforgiving spirit, unable to forgive, ask for repentance, and move forward. Anderson and Zuercher stated:
Whites and Blacks typically don't live in the same neighborhood, go to the same churches, or go to the same schools. Without the basic interactions in these areas, how can we value relationships with each other? If a relationship has no value, then who cares if there's reconciliation or not, it's not a priority. (p. 35)
Reconciliation is a priority and what we are called to do. We must develop cross-cultural relationships, building bridges of genuine love, trust and respect for one another. Blacks and whites are not the only cultural group experiencing a racial divide, similar issues are prevalent in other diverse groups.
For example, a racial divide is evident among whites and Native Americans; a relationship that has harbored resentment from some individuals on both sides for many years. Yang (2000) explained opportunities and economic benefits for Native Americans have been impacted by certain governmental policies. Government agencies have inaccurately reported their unemployment rates, causing an impact of systemic discrimination. This institutionalized discrimination resulted in inadequate funding to help combat high unemployment rates (Yang, 2000, p.149). On a consistent basis Native Americans, as reported by the FBI are victims of hate crimes more often than other cultural group. Ross (2014) asserted, "One cannot consider the contemporary victimization of Native Americans without addressing the history of colonization, genocide, and ethnocide. Whether by violence or assimilationist policy, whites have consistently exerted their energies in the ongoing effort to physically or culturally annihilate Native Peoples" (Ross, 2014, p. 95). Deliberately and systematically destroying Native Americans and their culture way of life has developed results or ramifications because of such issues addressed. Ross highlighted in the entire nation Native Americans experience high levels in several categories: poverty; 25.7% below poverty level, chronic diseases, unemployment; annually 22% on the reservation. However, they suffer vastly in the category of education and housing is ranked the worst amongst all ethnic groups. The divide amid cultural groups comes with a price; barriers hindering racial reconciliation.
Barriers Many factors attribute to the racial divide between blacks, whites and other cultural groups. Aspects such as political, social , economic, religious, education, even healthcare issues hinder reconciliation among the races. Collins, Rocco, & Bryant (2014) asserted, "Healthcare barriers include insurance status, knowledge of health and wellness, community attitudes discrimination, and trust. These barriers are indicative of systemic social issues placing racial, ethnic, and/or sexual minorities on the bottom of the social hierarchy" (Collins, Rocco & Bryant, 2014, p. 9). Obstructions existing in the employment arena, directly create an overt or covert environment for discrimination.
Systemic barriers for minorities are tantamount in employment existing on a two levels. Craig (2007) explained the first type of systemic discrimination is often direct and are individual acts; either intentional, unintentional or based on prejudice and stereotypes. The acts form and shape the organizational and administrative culture that ultimately condones and/or tolerates discriminatory behavior. The second form of discrimination are the unjustified standards and practices that impact minorities inequitably in the workforce (Craig, 2007, p. 94). Blockages are witnessed in countless areas, and a time existed when marriage contained specific stipulations.

A barrier from the 1800s that helped perpetuate the divide among blacks and whites was miscegenation. A term unfamiliar to many, miscegenation was a law constituting interracial marriage an unlawful and criminal act. Kitsch (2009) elucidated the idiom was derived during the 1864 presidential election. At the time Democrats viewed the political freedom of blacks would equate to unbridled sex between black men (slaves) and white women. Under the Miscegenation Law, by the year 1915, 28 states forbade interracial marriage between negroes and whites (Kitsch, 2009, p. 137). The residual effects of this law are still felt today in the form of the pre-marital blood test. In the 1900s to circumvent interracial marriage, the pre-marital blood test was instituted to delineate bloodline; thereby ensuring a mixing of the races did not transpire. It was not until 1967, in the case of Loving v. Virginia, when the Miscegenation Law was considered unconstitutional and violated the Fourteenth Amendment. The amendment afforded U.S. citizens equal protection under U.S. laws (Maillard & Villazor, 2012, p. 1).
In this landmark case a white man; Richard Loving fought to have his interracial marriage to Mildred Jeter; a part black and Cherokee Indian woman, upheld. Maillard & Villazor (2012) disclosed the Virginia couple was found to be in violation of Virginia's Miscegenation Law and faced imprisonment. In 1958 Richard and Mildred married in the neighboring state of Washington DC, then returned home to establish a life together. However, the marriage had a tumultuous start, one night the local sheriff accosted the couple from their marital bed, arrested and detained them in jail. They were charged and convicted of an unlawful marriage, but provided an option instead of jail time, a suspended sentence only if they departed Virginia and did not return to the state save together for 25 years. The Loving's obliged and moved to the District of Columbia, however, returned four years later. Filed a Federal motion to vacate their convictions claiming their constitutional rights were violated. The Loving's won their case, and Virginia's law was declared contradictory with a citizen's right to marriage (Maillard & Villazor, 2012, p. 14-15). Finding the story interesting, I decided to have a conversation with a coworker and descendent of Richard Loving. On November 7, 2014, spoke with Mrs. L.K. (personal communication, name withheld to protect anonymity) regarding her great-uncle Richard Loving. Mrs. L.K. explained some members of her family are racially biased. Although she was raised to not be prejudice, to this day the marriage between her great uncle and Mildred Jeter cannot be mentioned. Mrs. L.K.. stated Richard and her father were very close, and the arresting officer was Richard's uncle (L.K., personal communication, November 7, 2014). The cycle of injustices can be broken and solutions exerted to mitigate the aforementioned barriers?
The result of the Loving v. Virginia ruling was a start to mitigating racial barriers, because the decision left a legacy for "Establishing the federal constitutional limits on state domestic relations. Thereby, cementing not only the right, but also the practice of federal courts reviewing state domestic relations laws for consistency with federal constitutional guarantees" (Maillard & Villazor, 2012, p. 18-19). The ruling allowed bridges to be erected across the multicultural continuum, by allowing diverse cultures to not only develop relationships, but also legally marry one another. My solution for mitigating barriers and promoting racial reconciliation save is to become an advocate for social justice and change. This is not saying I will be a forerunner or champion for every cause or social injustice, however, will continue to be informed, cognizant and understand what is going in my community and the world overall. The world in which we live is diverse and everyone plays an important role. There is no "trapdoor" to escape the multicultural differences that exist; such as, race, gender, socioeconomic status, religion, or education. These factors provide opportunities to develop relationships and learn from a multitude of individuals. Another solution to mitigating barriers is respecting and understanding cultural differences, and incorporating self reflection to understand how our own values, attitudes and beliefs impact others. As Christians we must comprehend others are watching to see if we do/do not take action on certain social and political issues, and becoming peacemakers starts with all Christians. Anderson and Zuercher (2001) addressed two questions, "Where are the peacemakers? and "Why are there so few peacemakers (Hays & Zuercher, 2001, p. 41 )?"
Jesus is an excellent example of building bridges among the races and a proactive "peacemaker" versus "peacekeeper." Glancing at the two words, one may not realize the difference between the two. Peacemaker conjures a meaning to be actively involved in actions and behaviors helping diminish the racial divide. Activities such as being a political advocate for reform, involvement in the communities of other cultures, or simply interacting with diverse cultural groups. Peacekeeper arouses a meaning far less active in behavior, it is more of a reactive response to events or occurrences already in progress. Christians are to reflect the same character, heart, spirit, attitude and behavior of Jesus Christ, and have a peacemaker approach to reconciliation. "Jesus was proactive and crossed spiritual, social, economical, and racial lines. To follow His divine example, we must be proactive in evangelism, justice, kindness, mercy, and the like" (Anderson & Zuercher, 2001, p.42). The answer is obvious to the questions "Where are the peacemakers and why are there so few?" Christians are here and abundant in number, it is important to step out of the shadows as peacekeepers, and into the light as peacemakers. The book provided me with several "take away" thoughts to ponder in my peacemaker journey.

Next Steps My overall “take-a-way” from the book, pertaining to ingrained issues, apparent miscommunications, and racial/cultural harmony is we should educate ourselves about cultural differences. A lack of knowledge could breed misunderstandings, led to assumptions, or miscommunication. These limitations could drive a deeper wedge into the existing divide between cultural groups. In addition to education, regarding racial/cultural harmony, individuals must learn to listen to one another. Effective listening is a true art and we listen not only with our ears, but with our hearts; displaying love and compassion. This could facilitate and create an environment fostering harmony and understanding. To display the image of Christ, we must listen, have compassion, love, and support for all God's creatures. Limitations should not be placed on who is afforded these qualities, based on race, sexual orientation, education or other limiting factors. It is only when a genuine spirit and embodiment of Christ takes place; along with being proactive for racial reconciliation, can we begin to erase the divide separating the races. To be proactive like Jesus, Christians can take steps to be a part of the reconciliation solution process.
Specific steps I will personally take consists of leading the charge; educating others on understanding diverse differences and being a peacemaker. Anderson and Zuercher (2001) explained, "True reconciliation will not come through our government, nor should we expect it to. The church must lead the charge regarding repentance and reconciliation" (Anderson & Zuercher, 2001, p. 116). I currently work with several churches in my community being an ambassador for Christ, delivering the Gospel and helping those in need. Prayer is also an essential, part of my solution process; through prayer all things are possible. It has been more than 100 years since the injustices of slavery. Yet many blacks and whites are at an emotional standstill, unable to move forward, blaming each other for the backlash of slavery. David Anderson expressed:
Matthew 18 where Jesus tells me that if my brother has sinned against me that I must go to him to work through issues of reconciliation. The black Christian must be willing to forgive and apologize for his sin born out of bitterness. (p. 116)
My prayer will be for repentance, an apologetic and forgiving spirit, and the Holy Spirit leading all Christians to embrace reconciliation.

References
Anderson, D., & Zuercher, B. (2001). Letters across the divide:Two friends explore racism, friendship, and faith. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books.
Collins, J.C., Rocco, T.S., & Bryant, L.O. (2014). Health and wellness concerns for racial, ethnic, and sexual minorities: New directions for adult and continuing education, number 142. Danvers, MA: A Wiley Company.
Craig, R.L. (2007). Systemic discrimination in employment and the promotion of ethnic equality: International studies in human rights. Danvers, MA: Brill.
Kitch, S. (2009). The specter of sex: Gendered foundations of racial formation in the united states. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press.
Noble, K. M., & Villazor, R. C. (2012). Loving v. virginia in a post-racial world: Rethinking race, sex, and marriage. New York: NY, Cambridge University Press.
Robles, B.J., Leondar-Wright, B. & Brewer, R.M (2006) The color of wealth: The story behind the U.S. racial wealth divide. New York, NY: The New Press.
Ross, J.I. (2014). American indians at risk. Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO, LLC.
Yang, P.Q. (2000). Ethnic studies: Issues and approaches. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press.