An Open Letter to Sebastien de la Cruz

Friday, June 14, 2013
Dear Sebastien,

When you sang the National Anthem for game three of the NBA Finals, I was appalled at the reaction of the on-line community. To hurl such degrading and insulting rhetoric at anyone is simply beyond the pale, and the fact that you're a child made it that much worse, in my opinion. I thought, "How awful that these racist dirtbags should sully such an exciting and special event for this youngster. I hope he doesn't assume that everyone feels that way about his presence at the game."

But I underestimated you, and your parents, too. You, young sir, are a class act. You returned to the Spurs' Arena, and performed beautifully once again, wearing the cultural garb of your forefathers. You did so with pride, and with a poise I would not expect from a much older person. You did not allow the racists to silence your voice, and reacted in a way that shamed those who wanted to shame you for your pride in your heritage.

Keep singing, Sebastien. Sing for yourself, and your parents, and your community, and for all of us who believe that a diverse America is a strong America.

Sing.

3 comments:

Teacher and Learner said...

Well said!

Beatrice Desper said...

Thank you for sharing this, Janiece.

P2P IP Camera said...

thanks fo sahere!!