In the first part of this episode of For the People, New York Supreme Court Judge Bruce Wright delivers an address as part of a University of South Carolina Black scholar lecture series. He opens by calling to all Black Americans across the United States and places himself among those who have been affected by racism and oppression. In turn, he praises the Black persistence and strength that endured despite the weight of racial injustice. Judge Wright offers a powerful critique of systemic racism and works to highlight its deep-rooted presence in American legal and social institutions.
A central point of his discussion is the manifestation of racism in the judicial system that kicks Black Americans down and holds them down. A key focus of his address was the shortcomings of Brown v. the Board of Education, which he used to condemn the structures that were designed to stagnate progress. Judge Wright delves further into the all-consuming presence of anti-blackness and bigotry with anecdotes on how they each also operate within corporations, police interactions, and legislation.
Judge Wright moves to address the lack of unity among Black Americans, which is reinforced by societal labels. He notes that despite vast amounts of shared struggle, internal divisions remained present, and solidarity remained elusive. Once again, the oppressive system in place was used to exploit and limit Black Americans.
