From these days of pandemic and protest, the story touching me the most was that of a man, a black American, and his walks around his neighborhood. He always brings his dog with him, as well as one of his daughters. This way, he hopes, people will see him as a pet owner and as a father first rather than as a black man.

To me, it was amazing what a black man must do simply to walk safely out of his home.

As a white person, I thank the protesters for underlining how much I need to repent of my blindness toward the suffering of black men, women, and children since the first slaves were brought to this country.

Unfortunately, protests alone won’t solve the problem of racism. Also unfortunately, anarchists sometimes take advantage of peaceful protests to hurt us all.

Maybe it’s time to turn protests into voter registration drives. Protesters turned workers could register every American of color they could find.

They could also turn their attention to the voting process itself—checking where polling places will be as well as hours and what it takes to bring every one of their friends and acquaintances to vote.

They could work for voting by mail for those who wish to do so, especially if the coronavirus remains active.

Yes, we need awareness, but change will come sooner if compassionate, honest candidates are elected come this November.

The time is short.