The recent terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California have put America on edge, on guard and made us uncertain about who to trust. This senseless violence has provoked fear and anger, which is only natural! As Americans, we are now witnessing the highest homeland security threat environment since the days immediately following the tragic 9/11 attacks.
All of this is forcing our political, military and law enforcement leaders to re-examine how we intensify the campaign against an elusive foe that has inspired homegrown terrorism in the U.S. This fight has also caused considerable debate among political officeholders and candidates who all too often offer more rhetoric than answers. Even President Barack Obama's performance ratings on combating terrorism has hit a record-low 40-percent since his peak of 69-percent after Osama bin Laden was tracked down and killed.
For good reasons, Americans are worried that extremists are gaining the upper hand. But, as a powerful nation built on diversity, our challenge is not letting fear turn into hate, discrimination or ethnic and religious profiling of Muslims. Our American history has taught us all too well where this slippery slope can lead!
If you want to seek a better understanding of people different from yourself, then we strongly encourage you to reach out to the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion. For decades, it has been a catalyst for change and learning. We have posted a link to contacting the Roundtable on wxyz.com.
Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion
313-870-1500
Remember, President Harry Truman once said this about being an American:
"It is a belief that all men are created free and equal and that everyone deserves an even break. It is respect for the dignity of men and women without regard to race, creed, or color. That is our creed."
- President Harry Truman
I'm Chuck Stokes, Editorial Director
Broadcast: December 10, 2015
