Thursday, May 10, 2012

Race in Freemasonry

Please don't jump to conclusions.  I want write honestly about race in Freemasonry in America.  Race is such a touchy subject.  People get offended quickly.  If you read any of my posts about subjects that may have Race as a part of them, please consider reading this general disclaimer first.

1.  This is not about a racial agenda.  I am not trying to pass judgements or indict anyone.  That is not what this is about. I have no intention of calling anyone a "racist".  Except where it is the only term which can describe a subject, I won't use it.

2.  I know that the introduction of controversial subjects into Freemasonry can go against the objectives of the institution.  It is not just Religion and Politics.  Our Masonic forbears probably would have included race as a prohibited discussion subject, knowing what we know today.  Unfortunately, in order to discuss the Masonic subjects of regularity, recognition, history, amity, and traditions, race is relevant to the conversation.

3.  I promise to not accuse people of being racist, or racially motivated.

4.  I do not know how to refer to people.  I do not mean offense when I use the term "White" or "White Person" or "White People" or "White Masons". I am not offended when I hear the term "Black", "Black Person", "Black People", or "Black Masons".  I personally use the terms "Black" and "African-American" interchangeably in many settings.  I recognize that "race" is a false idea, and that descriptions do not hold up in reality.  Some mainstream Lodges may have absolutely zero members who are not "white", but may not consider themselves a "white" Lodge, as this concept has connotations which they do not want to be associated with.  I would like to try to make the point that I am making no suggestions or inferences.  Every term is silly and is recognized as being silly.

I am writing all of this here, so I can refer to this post.  I want you to know that I recognize this is silly so you don't have to waste time telling me this is silly.

2 comments:

  • Often Tried says:
    May 10, 2012 at 6:09 PM

    Bro. Just when it was getting good, you left me hanging. lol

  • Unknown says:
    May 10, 2012 at 6:55 PM

    Dang. I kinda did didn't I? My bad. I will get the rest of my posts in this up asap.

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