Prejudice wears a mask

It appears some of the very conditions which exist today are the same that we as a nation questioned decades ago (“King holiday a good time to reflect on leadership,” Jan. 17).

There is truth in the words: “It’s convictions without courage, which is the antithesis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.” So how do we really measure change, impact and progress?

The very small minority perpetuating these hate crimes are not responsible for holding back progress, for they have little power and are cowards. Our community, those who raise, teach and employ our children, hides the more destructive weapon of prejudice.

Hatred is easy, but prejudice is easily masked by many who appear otherwise to be good and outstanding people, business and community leaders.

Prejudices are either broken or reinforced one generation and one family at a time. Few minorities live here, but some of my friends still live under the prevailing lack of acceptance and tolerance shown in this area by those holding onto past prejudices.

My brothers and I are raising sons and daughters who no longer subscribe to past prejudices. Our generation looks beyond the world of our fathers and grandfathers, confident we have impacted progress.

D.W. Ray

Spokane Valley