As a Black-Latina Immigrant, instances of prejudice and racism are not unfamiliar to me.

Yet, the experience of the African American community in our country is one rife with hatred, destruction, and travesties of justice. I was proud to have taken my teenage son to the peaceful protest this past weekend in Providence.

There he witnessed the pain and outcry of black and brown communities who fear for their lives simply for existing. I pray for a world where my son’s skin color doesn’t make him a target of senseless violence.

Racism is our country’s oldest virus and one that we as leaders must work collectively and tirelessly to suppress and eradicate.

So let’s continue to chant, let’s continue to protest, and let’s continue to expose the evils that cause harm upon those we love. With peace on our side, there’s no way we can lose.

Sabina Matos, President
Providence City Council
Councilwoman – Ward 15