Most Americans fail to note that the term patriotism is a label used far too frequently for those whose thoughts and actions betray the spirit of the concept. In many ways, it is impossible to adorn one with the title of American Patriot as they turn a blind eye to the murder of their fellow countrymen, even if the alluded victims of malicious violence are of a darker hue. Routine equivocating on such pressing matters that culminate in the needless shedding of the blood of their countrymen invalidates any claim to a laudable concept such as patriotism.

There is a strained relationship between those who ignore the fact that September 23 is a notable day in African-American history and those who have seriously studied American race relations. It was on this cursed date that a Mississippi jury returned with a not guilty verdict for J.W. Milam and Roy Bryant, two white men who were charged with the murder of Emmett Louis Till. A Louisville grand jury decided not to charge the officers for actions that resulted in the death of Breonna Taylor on the same day 65 years later.Ā  It is ironic that we have repeatedly witnessed the vilest proponents of racial injustice cloak themselves in an ill-fitting patriotism while freedom-loving Americans are painted as insurgents seeking to destroy the pillars of freedom, justice, and democracy constructed by the Founding Fathers. When viewed through this prism, it is obvious that many flag-toting white nationalists are little more than contemporary ā€œBenedict Arnoldsā€ working against a nation they proclaim to love. It is their misdeeds, not the actions of protestors and their opponents, that ensures the racial divide remains alive and well.

The current political climate leaves one no other choice than to question, what do those opposing racial justice desire? The historical record indicates that they have monopolized every seat of power, from politics to economics. I ask again, what more do they want? If I were a betting man, I would place a wager on the startling reality that the white nationalists in our midst have never considered such questions and, therefore, are absent a reasonable answer. When one realizes that Americaā€™s race problem has its genesis within White America, it should be understood that its solution begins in that location.

If provided the opportunity to address the well-meaning white activists who have articulated their angst in this nationā€™s streets, I would advise them to return home. Although their contributions are laudable, they must attack Americaā€™s race problem at its root; inside of White America. It flows from their homes, schools, civic groups, churches, and the policies created by their elected officials. This is where the kindling that maintains Americaā€™s racial inferno is generated; not among social movements seeking to extinguish the uncontrollable flames.

James Thomas Jones III, Ph.D.

Well-meaning white activists need to learn the saying that one must always seek to work smarter, not harder. The smartest thing that they can do at this moment is to abandon an antiquated playbook of joining the oppressed in what amounts to as petty battles that do not threaten the system of white supremacy. Instead, they should adopt a new playbook that focuses their energies on their white compatriots, who have yet to learn that the most patriotic thing they could ever do is fight for the rights and protection of all Americans.

James Thomas Jones III, Ph.D., M.A., M.A., M.A., is an associate professor ofĀ African-American StudiesĀ at Prairie View A&M University. He is also the creator of the website,Ā Manhood, Race, and Culture.