September 18, 2018
The recent tragic shooting death of Botham Jean is yet another reminder that people of color continue to live in fear. Their concerns about this are not unfounded. Conversations that I’m sure are taking place in African-American households — about how to respond to police officers — simply shouldn’t be happening in 2018.
A letter written by Rev. Edlen Cowley and members of the North Texas Conference African-American Clergy Fellowship has since been signed by a diverse group of more than 100 clergy and laity in our conference. I firmly stand in solidarity with this group, invite you to read their letter, and join others on Wednesday, September 19, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. at the Dallas Police Department for “United Methodists of All Colors Walking for Justice” — a public witness to legitimate concerns about the glacial pace of the investigation of Officer Amber Guyger.
The words in Micah 6:8 still apply today: “God has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah’s instruction to do justice calls on us to use our voices and our actions to ensure that all people in our communities are treated fairly and equitably.
A 26-year-old man is dead, and we cannot change that. What we, collectively, can do is press forward for answers so that his mother, his family, and others who stand in support of Mr. Jean can attempt to find closure. I hope and pray that justice prevails for all.
Blessings and peace to you all,
Michael McKee
cc:
Faith Johnson, Dallas County District Attorney
Chief U. Renee Hall, Dallas Police Department
Mayor Mike Rawlings, City of Dallas