11/03/2020
RUN FOR EQUALITY•THE HUMANRACE 2020 ✊🏽
Four months ago God called on me to serve. I believe I was tasked to bring my community together, and empower each other to be better to one another.
Witnessing the racial and civil injustices in our country this year broke my heart. So, like many, I was moved to action. And in a world where we do a lot of fighting each other, I instead sought to try and bridge the gap. As a Latino man, I believed the Black/Brown community deserved better.
Then God showed me THE HUMANRACE
His goal for me was to run a marathon, as an act of peace. So, I set out to run 26.2 miles, through 9 different towns, symbolically linking us all together.
The time leading up to it was spent learning, to gain perspective. I had the privilege of getting to know, and working with, so many amazing people. People for whom I’ll be forever grateful. For without them, none of this would have been possible.
This included meeting with local BIPOC, rights, and community organizations/individuals who were on the ground doing the work. Learning what needs change, and what it takes to change It. Out of love, they helped plan a community event at the finish line.
I also needed to reach out to the other side. And so I conversed with Towns’ Mayors and Police Chiefs, collecting support. Trying to find the good officials in a rigged system. In solidarity, every local PD escorted us through their town for safe passage. Towns’ officials wrote out donations.
After months of praying, planning, and prepping, my team and I would go on to run that marathon. At the finish line, members of my little ethnic hometown gathered to hear our message of hope.
God’s call was to unify— to heal. I know this one event won’t change the system, nor will it cure prejudice or racism. But it’s a start, right here at home. At the very least, it’s hope that a brighter future does exist.
This was also a fundraiser. Together, we rose nearly $4000 for BIPOC community programs and non-profits!
Without God none of this would have been possible. I am so thankful for him and the many hands that went into this effort. I plan to continue his work, moving towards a brighter future. Amen.
