Workplace Racism

I recently read an article about a man who sued his employer because of workplace racism. He described a classic case of workplace racism, which included offensive remarks made by his co-workers that created an uncomfortable environment for him and other minorities. He felt that he was blamed for errors he did not commit, denied benefits, and in the end was fired for complaining.

Situations like the one described above may not be common but they are common enough for many African Americans to identify with it. They are hard to pinpoint but the feeling is inescapable. When you try to describe the details to someone who has not experienced a similar situation many of the details seem like they could be coincidental. But in reality, you really are picking up on a shared experience of racism.

The hardest part for me was the confusion of what I was experiencing. Once I got my bearings, it didn’t get easier but at least I understood the problem. At the same time I recognized that I could not control the situation. I felt helpless except I had learned I could depend on God.

A while back I had decided that life is too rough to do alone. I needed Someone larger than life. Ironically, it was my spiritual helplessness and need that introduced me to God. So when Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28), I went.