I’ve been really disappointed by many of the reactions I’ve seen to the protests in Ferguson from friends and family members, especially those in Missouri. It’s especially disappointing when I see a claim that racism isn’t a problem, and the complete lack of self-awareness that comes with that statement. Racism is a huge problem all of the place, and Missouri is no different.

If you’re white, before you express some opinion on Ferguson, please read this: “An Open Letter to My Fellow White People About Your Reactions to the Ferguson Protests.”

At the very least, please read the first two lines:

Dear Fellow White People,

Please shut up.