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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Walk the talk

This is in response to the June 25 Spokesman-Review article (“Catholic Charities CEO releases video in support of Black Lives Matter movement, condemning racism”) regarding Catholic Charities CEO Rob McCann supporting Black Lives Matter in a video, which is available for view on YouTube.

Mr. McCann has had an exemplary career with Catholic Charities, according to my research; however, he states that he is a racist due to implicit biases, and that Catholic Charities, due to its mostly white board, has contributed to systemic racism. The article quotes Mr. McCann saying, “For me as a white person, saying I’m not a racist is like saying a fish is not wet.”

Following this logic, there is only one way to end systemic racism at Catholic Charities: Mr. McCann should empower people of color by recruiting a qualified member to take his place. Like-minded white board members should also “walk the talk” in this manner.

Craig Detmer

Spokane

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