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America, quit the obsession with silly memes and online debates. It's time to get serious about our future
Fox News
While the internet is flooded with jokes and distractions, I’m down here in the trenches, trying to keep the American Dream alive for my people.
It’s easy to criticize from afar, but it takes real skill and empathy to actually help people in a meaningful way — to guide them in building better futures for themselves. Pastor Corey Brooks, known as the "Rooftop Pastor," is the founder and Senior Pastor of New Beginnings Church of Chicago and the CEO of Project H.O.O.D. (Helping Others Obtain Destiny), the church's local mission. He gained national attention for his 94-day and 343-day rooftop vigils to transform the notorious "O-Block," once known as Chicago's most dangerous block, into #OpportunityBlock. Learn more at ProjectHOOD.org.
As a pastor, not a politician, I approach these individuals with dignity, respect, and brotherly love. I’ve walked a young girl to her first day of school and welcomed many into my congregation. But that doesn’t mean I don’t have concerns about how this sudden influx will impact our neighborhood.
I worry about my fellow South Siders, who have worked tirelessly to improve their lives and their community. Will this strain our already limited resources? Will it lead to gentrification? Or will it increase the poverty and violence that we’ve fought so hard to reduce?