Mixing religion, politics
Although not surprising, we have seen very little support emanating from one of the traditional arteries of the black community, namely the church, with regards to the Ellerbe fiasco. I know that many rural church heads feel that mixing religion and politics is somehow unchristian, notwithstanding the fact, that they line solidly up behind the Christian Right, headed by the likes of Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson on the highly political issue of abortion. If we follow their line of reasoning that abortion is murder, then why aren’t they equally outraged about the questionable death of Michael Ellerbe? It would appear to me that one should be more concerned about those in which they can see as opposed to those whom they cannot. I believe that one of the overriding reasons Richard Allen founded the black church during the 1790s was for political purposes, despite the fact that it has become mired in custom and tradition and stands aloof from the political arena, especially rural churches. One can readily see that for black ministers to proclaim that they are not concerned regarding political issues that affect their congregations is absolutely ludicrous. Americans in our society must begin to see some value in their own intellect and stop depending on others to lead them in directions that are contrary to their own interest.
Because one has a few letters behind or in front of his or her name, for example PhD or Rev., does not necessarily mean that he or she knows anything with respect to the intelligent course of action for you. More times than not these people have not had any original thought about anything.
They have passed on to you the ideas of their parents, pastors, teachers and political leaders.
God has given us the ability to think for ourselves and America through her Constitution has given us the right to express those thoughts. Why forfeit these precious rights by rendering them to your spiritual and political leaders. One may have the knowledge and ability to lead you, but this interest may be totally opposite of yours.
Let me pose this scenario. If I am attempting to take you to Brownsville and I have never been there myself, then I could take you to Fairchance and say “well we’re in Brownsville.” Then we’d both be lost or in the ditch as the Bible says. I submit to you that this is where our spiritual and religious leaders have led us.
I would encourage all black God-living church folks in our community to heed the call and begin to think for yourselves. Moreover, I would invite you to join with fellow white God-loving people in our community who have been in the forefront of the Ellerbe struggle for fairness.
If the police made a mistake don’t play on our intelligence by trying to cover it up. Let’s deal with it, not in a vengeful manner but in a lawful way tinged with compassion. This country and the citizens deserve nothing less.
Ron Dennis
Uniontown