What images have disillusioned me into believing that I am unworthy to sit in beautiful spaces with my golden locs, richly melanated skin, and full body? How did I convince myself that the being once called “good” by the creator needs to be transformed into standards enculturated by modern society?

How can we stand “close enough” to Presiding Bishop-Elect Curry and Secretary-Elect Mills? What is our call as ELCA Lutheran Christians to love, support, and protect our newly called leaders?

A friend once said to me, “the truth that sets you free is the truth you’re willing to know.” Is that the problem, as we approach Juneteenth? Are we not willing to know the truth?

From the depth of my heart, I beg readers not to say, “I can’t believe it! This can’t be true! That would never happen in my church," ... Instead, “I see you; I believe you,” is a more faithful and compassionate response to the violence of racism perpetuated in our churches.