This issue resonates deeply, and here's why: the plight of those escaping conflict and devastation is a matter that concerns us all.

Dear Reader: Typically, I don't delve into political topics, but this matter strikes a chord with me as a global traveler with cherished friends in various nations, some of which are embroiled in conflict and suffering similar fates.

By now, you may have come across reports detailing how students and workers from Nigeria, India, and other nations are being obstructed from exiting Ukraine. Additionally, the far-right factions in Poland have been parading along the borders, shouting concerning slogans about "protecting our women." This outdated fear-mongering perpetuates the false narrative that a Black man is inherently a sexual predator with an exclusive interest in assaulting White women.

It's astonishing, yet here we are in 2022, witnessing this persist.

In case you missed it:

• March 1, 2022, 1:25 p.m. ET: Africans residing in Ukraine say they faced delays at border crossings into Poland. [Read more](https://www.nytimes.com)

and this:

• Non-white refugees from Ukraine reportedly continue to endure discrimination as they flee the war into Europe. [Read more](https://abcnews.go.com)

While these incidents may cause some embarrassment for the governments involved, the following highlights the gravity of the situation:

• Recent reports have focused on the overwhelming media reaction to the plight of "European people with blue eyes and blonde hair." [Read more](https://www.newslaundry.com)

On a recent broadcast, Ukraine's deputy chief prosecutor David Sakvarelidze expressed his emotional turmoil upon witnessing “European people with blue eyes and blonde hair being killed daily.”

This sentiment has sparked outrage among my friends who are writers, particularly those from the Black community. One of them recently discussed the ongoing humanitarian disasters in various African regions that often go unnoticed.

But can we truly label this as a humanitarian crisis if those affected are not regarded as human?

This is deeply personal for me, stemming from my upbringing, which I have previously shared. My closest friends include many who face the harsh realities of White Supremacy, despite their remarkable talents and intelligence. This stark contrast highlights the ignorance of those who cling to outdated notions of racial superiority.

They fear the truth: that people of other races not only hold equal standing but, in many cases, surpass their White counterparts in emotional intelligence and resilience. This fear breeds a toxic environment.

Instead of allowing our brothers and sisters of color to contribute their immense value to our world—whether through medical advancements or culinary delights—we let this unfounded fear thrive.

Traveling extensively has shaped my understanding. Every place I visit leaves a lasting impact, especially when I remember families affected by wars, such as those in Ethiopia, where I have built meaningful connections.

Ultimately, the crux of the issue lies in our shared humanity. When we gather to share meals, sit together in comfort, and explore each other's worlds, we recognize the deep humanity in one another. We can no longer view others as "them" or less deserving of a decent life.

It's disheartening to encounter the derogatory phrase often used by some White individuals who claim to befriend Black friends: “You’re not like the others.”

What does that even mean?

Raised in the Deep South, my education included interactions with Black families, normalizing the richness of their culture and achievements. The injustices faced by people with darker skin resonate with me personally.

This issue extends beyond individual experiences; it is a collective concern. Yet, many still maintain a sense of detachment.

Borders are mere political constructs. Engaging with indigenous communities worldwide reveals how colonial powers divided lands, disregarding the historical presence of those who first inhabited them.

An unsettling observation circulated on LinkedIn recently, comparing lessons learned about Hitler (today's Putin) while neglecting figures like King Leopold II, responsible for the deaths of millions in Africa.

• King Leopold II of Belgium exploited vast territories in Africa, enslaving its people and causing immense suffering. [Read more](https://www.gazetadopovo.com.br)

Belgium is starting to reckon with this history, especially following the murder of George Floyd, leading to public outcry and acknowledgment of past wrongs. It highlights the selective nature of historical education, often tailored for the comfort of those in power.

It's tragic that most people only recognize this through popular media, like the recent Tarzan film, which inaccurately positions a White character as "Africa's favorite son."

As if a single White man could represent a diverse continent filled with billions of individuals!

Climate change is already driving mass migrations due to famine and drought. Island nations are sinking. Here in the U.S., migration is also occurring, often met with the same hostility faced by desperate individuals elsewhere.

We are all transitory beings on this planet, and many fail to see the impending challenges ahead. Civil unrest, warfare, or unforeseen crises could force us into the role of immigrants ourselves.

The troubling legacy of the Trump administration remains ingrained in American society, and as other nations progress, we continue to grapple with systemic injustices against those who are not White, male, or affluent.

While countless individuals strive to effect positive change, a significant portion remains indifferent to the plight of others globally. This includes all people from diverse backgrounds.

Expat communities are growing, and a mass exodus from America due to climate change could happen. Who will welcome us when our privilege is stripped away?

In a world where nature and divine forces remain indifferent to race, the lessons we pass down to our children about our current political landscape will shape their futures. We may not be the ones to face the consequences, but the next generations will.

If we fail to show compassion and understanding to all, we diminish our own humanity. When we categorize who is worthy of life based on superficial traits, we lose our connection to the divine.

For those who relish their prejudices under the guise of patriotism or religion, it would be enlightening to witness their confrontation with their Creator, questioning why they mistreated fellow beings crafted in that same divine image.

If divine creation is flawless, how can we rationalize treating anyone with less dignity than they deserve?

This notion of selective belief is troubling. We are all immigrants, yet many refuse to acknowledge this truth. Those of us of European descent are merely guests in a land that has seen so much suffering.

The most compassionate and generous individuals I have encountered are often those who have endured loss and displacement. They understand desperation and are likely to extend kindness to those in need.

This understanding is perhaps the most profound lesson of all.

Thus, when individuals of color are denied refuge from chaos simply due to their race, it should matter deeply to you. It should matter profoundly.

Originally published at https://www.walkaboutsaga.com on March 6, 2022.

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