Letter to My Students About The Baltimore Riots

North Ave. Baltimore: Photo Credit Baltophoto.org

Over the past 15 years and counting I have had the privilege of pastoring you, hundreds of middle and high school students in the Baltimore area. You came to our youth ministry from a variety of cultural and racial backgrounds and a majority of you have a different skin color than I do. Through our relationship I have learned many cultural insights and the importance of understanding peoples backgrounds without making assumptions. It is to all you students (current & former) that I write this letter. My hope is to encourage you during this important time in our country’s history. 

A little over a week ago violence broke out in the streets of Baltimore following the tragic death of Freddy Grey, whose death was preceded by too many other tragic deaths. For some of you this was not far form where you live or where you grew up. It was close to your home and close to your heart. For some of you this brought up strong feelings that you had been keeping inside for some time. While for others this was an eye opening experience. Maybe you found yourself asking questions. Why did this happen? What can be done to make this right? What changes can we make to old, broken systems or process? Am I safe in my own city? Will I be protected from people that are supposed to protect me?

As someone who cares about you I want you to know this: I See you. I see you as you went to the streets to protest peacefully. I see you as you shared your feelings via social media. I see you as you expressed anger and frustration. I see you as were moved with compassion, your heart breaking over the death, and the violence in your city. I see you as you went to clean the streets the day after, to help get your city back on it’s feet. I see you as you rallied with friends to encourage other on the streets to be peaceful. I see you, and I admit that though I don’t fully understand all the history and injustices I do understand that you are highly valuable. 

Know this as well, I not only see you, but I am here for you. I’m here not only in this moment but in the days to come. I don’t think by any stretch of the imagination that this is the last time anything happens like this in our country or our city. Any time more information is released about Freddy Grey or the officers, or any time a decision is made there will be some sort of reaction. I’m here for you. I’m here for you if you need to vent. I’m here for you if you need a safe place to ask question. I’m here for you if you need to vet your ideas. Reach out, I’m here. 

So what can we do to bring about change and turn all of our feelings into something that lasts. First of all I think we can pray. Any time my heart is grabbed by something that seems so big that I don’t know how I can make a difference I pray. Because I know that nothing is too big for God. He can make a difference. Secondly, be the change that you want to see. As you become passionate about these issues work hard to convert your talk and feelings into real action and change. Your actions on a personal level set the standard for everyone that interacts with you. YOU can change policy and systems. Research, read, seek understanding, have conversation and figure out what role you can play. Keep in mind that how you conduct your self matters just as much and what you do. Promote peace, and bring people together. Willingly seek and extend forgiveness. 

One final piece of advice. In your times of frustration don’t withdrawal from your cross cultural relationships. Instead lean into them. Have grace covered conversations, understanding that they might not lead to agreement, but they should lead to a better understanding. 

Thanks for reading my ramblings. I’m praying for you. I believe in you!

Jared