President Donald Trump’s initial statement on the tragic protest in Charlottesville, Virginia was highly criticized for not being forceful enough. The President condemned in the “strongest possible terms” the “…display of hatred, bigotry, and violence on many sides, on many sides.” He further stated that the display had been “going on for a long time in our country.” Commentators, from across the political spectrum, rightly pointed out that the hate-filled violence presented in Charlottesville was coming from the direction of white supremacists. To suggest otherwise is simply inconsistent with the evidence.

However, in the end I agree with the President. While only one side was responsible for the violent protest, the underlying issue was birthed on many sides. The challenge is systemic racism and the indifference displayed from white conservatives and progressives alike. Conservatives have not shown any willingness to truthfully wrestle with our nation’s problem with race. On the other side, progressives have proclaimed to be "allies" to people of color. Too many, however, are only participants in the struggle when it is convenient for them.

My progressive friends dismiss overt prejudice and hate—most people do. Their activism is clear on social media, organized marches and with slogans on apparel. However, when it comes to more subtle racial discrimination it seems their high ideals are up for debate. When it is pointed out that their own staffs and search committees lack diversity, the typical response is “we will do better.” When they are told the impact of their actions on colleagues of color, the response is about the intent. When they hear the lived experiences of those who face oppression daily, the call is for more assessment instead of action.

Indeed the challenge we face as a nation, systemic racism and apathy, can be found on many sides. This problem, overtly and hidden, has definitely been going on for a long time in our country. However, the display not only centers in Charlottesville. Its source has gravity in the boardroom, the job search, the house of faith and the confines of our comfort. The President had an alternative version of truth in Charlottesville. Nevertheless, the real challenge does come from many sides.

Joshua McPhatter

Writing since August 2017 · 1 story contributed