“It costs so little to teach a child to love, and so much to teach him to hate."
This simple but profound statement was made a century ago by Father Edward Flanagan, founder of Boys Town. From its inception, Boys Town welcomed every child regardless of race, religion or creed. At the time, many believed such integration was scandalous. There were threats and condemnation. But Father Flanagan was steadfast in rejecting all forms of discrimination, and he embraced every child who needed hope, a helping hand and a home.
Today, Boys Town remains committed to the ideals of tolerance, respect, equality and fairness. Every day, in our Family Homes, our foster homes, our schools and all of our youth-serving programs, we teach children to choose love over hate, calm over rage, and justice over vengeance.
It's a lesson that needs to be heard and taught in every home… now more than ever.
The events of the last several days have laid bare just how much divisiveness and distrust exists in our communities and our nation. When misunderstandings and suspicions cause us to fear those we consider “other" or “different," it can lead to the kinds of tension and friction we see playing out on the streets of America. This is the cost of hate.
As people, we all must work to create a more just, peaceful, and equitable society. I urge you to use this moment of turmoil and pain to look inside and see your part in this greater racial problem. I promise to do the same.
As parents and caregivers, let's commit ourselves to investing in love by building solidarity in our families, not barriers; by teaching and modeling compassion and kindness to our children rather than indifference and cruelty. The change we want to see in our world really does begin with us, with our families and in our homes.
Today, I humbly ask you to join with us to #TEACHLOVE and make a commitment to promote tolerance, respect and equality. We will be sharing different ways to #TEACHLOVE in the coming days.
With your help, support and prayers, we can amplify a message of love, inclusion and understanding so families and communities can find a renewed sense of hope and our country can begin to heal.
God's Blessings,
Father Steven E. Boes
President and National Executive Director, Boys Town
Help Boys Town #TeachLove to children and families by donating today.
