A Foundation of Hope: An Op-Ed From Yvette Meléndez and Linda J. Kelly

[This is an excerpt from an op-ed written for the website CT Viewpoints. It was written by Hartford Foundation chair of board of directors Yvette Meléndez and president Linda J. Kelly.]

With the recent tragedies in Orlando, Louisiana, Minnesota and Dallas, this is a sad time for our nation and each and every one of its residents. It highlights in so many ways the worst of our instincts and policy failures – lack of understanding, tolerance and acceptance as equals of the many groups that comprise this great nation; the ease with which weapons of war are obtained and used against both ordinary people and law enforcement officers; racial divisiveness, fear and fear-mongering promulgated by individuals, groups and mass media yearning for provocative messaging.

Yet, it is also times like this that we see the best of us – law enforcement officers placing their lives in jeopardy to protect others – including those peacefully protesting the actions of some of their fellow officers; municipal and state leaders who publicly support independent investigations and promise justice when their own law enforcement officers are accused of wrongdoing; the many diverse individuals – by race, age and gender - who show empathy for those among us for whom the American Dream seems elusive.

Today and every day, we should all take a moment of reflection for our role in sustaining the greatness of this country, to recognize and respect the diversity of our fellow residents and for our responsibility to remain ever vigilant in acknowledging and protecting the civil liberties that make America unique.

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