June 27, 2015
God Bless Ame Charleston, SC

I will like to open up by extending my deepest regards to the victims and to the families of the people who lost their loved ones in African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.

The disgusting face of racism has once again made it very clear we are not living in a post-racism America. The election of President Barack Obama may have gave off this false notion that racism no longer exists in our nation. The acts committed by this ignorant, misled, clearly troubled young man should put this post-racism myth to rest.

This act of violence has deeply sadden me. In my lifetime, this is the first mass attack on black people that was motivated simply because of the color of their skin. I have heard of the many acts of brutality inflicted on African-Americans, but to actually have it happen in my lifetime is truly heartbreaking. It is heartbreaking because I was raised around every race. I was taught to treat everyone equally. My views of any person will be based on the context of their character and not the color of their skin!

I always knew racism still existed, but to see its existence at this level—where a person is willing to go into a black church and murder great people—is extremely shocking and terrifying. I pray this is just an isolated tragedy. I also pray this tragedy unites all races. We are all humans and we must learn to cure for each other and not let race divide us!

The reactions of the families of our lost loved ones were truly amazing! I am so proud of all of you! Your reactions defines classy! I am proud to say, "Yes, those are my people." You all demonstrated restraint, humility, strength, and most of all forgiveness. For all of you to come out and immediately forgive him has taught me that if you all can forgive him, I have no excuse not to forgive those who have wronged me. Because nothing they have done to me can compare to what your families have just experienced.

Thank you for showing me not to fight evil with evil. Bless evil through God, love, and forgiveness.

I LOVE YOU, AME
GOD BLESS YOU!

Stay Prayed Up!

Sincerely yours,
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Perrie Thompson