In Springfield’s recent history, the acknowledgment by former Mayor Karen Hasara of racism in our police department was an act of political courage; the citywide “study circles” racial dialogue program she launched allowed many to consider an issue that is often ignored or glossed over because of its inherent volatility. Mayor Mike Houston has talked at length of his desire to heal the racial divide that continues to manifest itself in events such as the CWLP noose incident. Clearly, the record over the last two decades is mixed.

The following from the Baha’i race unity statement seems as appropriate today as it did 20 years ago, and can serve as a benchmark for measuring future progress:

“Our appeal (for racial unity and justice) is addressed primarily to the individual American because the transformation of a whole nation ultimately depends on the initiative and change of character of the individuals who compose it. No great idea or plan of action…can hope to succeed if the individual neglects to respond in his or her own way as personal circumstances and opportunities permit.”

Mike Lang lives in Sherman. He serves on the Race Unity Rally committee, which will host the 14th annual Race Unity Rally at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 5, in the State Capitol rotunda.