Opinion: So What is “TCAR” Anyway? By Keasha Haythe

So What is “TCAR” Anyway?

On Monday of this week two families—the Haythes and the Watson/Stones– joined together to launch the Talbot Coalition Against Racism (“TCAR”), and in just these few days many others have joined us even though our original announcement provided little description of TCAR. We thought this letter would provide your readers with a better understanding of TCAR’s mission.

The first step in addressing any problem, of course, is to recognize it exists. That simple but essential first step is the real focus of this Coalition, a joint endeavor that we hope you, your family, your business and organizations will join. Racism exists in Talbot County, and people are treated unfairly because of the color of their skin. TCAR’s mission is to help each of us face and better understand that fact, building a foundation for change and action.

TCAR ‘s message is not anti-police. Everyone was outraged at Mr. Floyd’s murder, not least our Sheriff and the Easton Police Department. But notwithstanding police training, practiced protocols, and newly heightened sensitivity, Anton Black’s death just 25 miles away in Caroline County should caution us against pridefulness and motivate us to look thoughtfully at what changes that episode demands.

In recent times the racism in our community has not erupted in some dramatic, headline grabbing incident or disruption for all to see. Yet sad is the fact that very many blacks (and Latinos too) still, in 2020, experience of episodes of unfair treatment, indignities, and discrimination simply due to the color of their skin. And many do not speak up. Now is the time to speak.

The Floyd murder has shaken the Country and the County, and convinced many that if nothing else we must take that first step forward: recognize the problem. We need to talk about unaddressed racism in Talbot County, not just as to policing issues, but in all our institutions and relationships. Out loud. Across the color line. Share experiences with one another. This organization intends to facilitate that dialogue. And action cannot wait.

We are inviting families, individuals, businesses and organizations from throughout Talbot County to join TCAR by emailing us at [email protected]. Here is what that means:

Joining TCAR is a commitment to imagine walking in that other person’s shoes.

Joining TCAR is a commitment to try and understand what racism is, to try and better see the acts big and small, the thoughtless omissions, the legal arrangements, the unexamined customs that comprise racism in all facets of our lives, and the fears that surround the prospect of change.

Joining TCAR is a commitment that you will work towards specific concrete reforms and changes in our community that YOU think will enhance racial justice here and now—not what someone else thinks, and not what the leadership of TCAR thinks.

We’re inviting everyone of good will who wishes to work peaceably for racial justice in our County—families, individuals, businesses, and organizations– to join us in this essential work.

Keasha Haythe is co-chair of Talbot Coalition Against Racism