Dealing with race relations in Wimberley

While much of Wimberley was stunned at the prejudice that the Bursell family experienced, those not so few of us who are Black and Brown and live here, are not entirely surprised. Let me say that much of our reception here, as a Black woman and a Latino man, has been warm and positive, as we have woven ourselves into the fabric of this community and some of its people, churches, interest groups, music venues, and the great outdoors. However, we have had our moments of pause with its racist undercurrent as well, like when we are followed though a store on the square we frequent no longer, or witnessed leaders fail to address derogatory remarks.

Perhaps one avenue in trying to become the more inclusive place this city imagines itself to be, is an exploration of Wimberley’s “sundown town” history as a dark and still present legacy. This used to mean that no Black person should be seen or heard once it’s dark here, because no one will be held to account for what might happen to them, very much like happened at 7A Ranch. The “note” was left after dark, referring to some “noise curfew” (of which no one can tell me is an actual law here, especially with rampant fireworks of late). More pointedly, this family was referred to as “you people,” a racist term applied to mean you Black people, implying their presence was not welcome. We Black, Indigenous People of Color(BIPOC) still aren’t meant to be here, apparently, for some folks. Wimberley may not a little bit of heaven for everyone.

Maybe you know a few of the dozens of persons, children, families of color and immigrants in this town. Or do you really not see them? Has your southern hospitality extended itself to them? How many times have those residents of color been excluded, and/or offended in situations you have written off as unintentional slights, done without malice aforethought? Denials, excuses, and invalidations for these incidents make it tiresome work for those who do point out such micro-aggressions. Speaking up, risks drawing negative, defensive, dismissive, and sometimes hateful responses…proving our point, that racist practice is not being acknowledged. So why bother?

Because, we are here, for such a time as this: to raise our voices alongside others who are marginalized. The lives of BIPOC, our lives, are threatened, brutalized, trivialized, and diminished on so many fronts, and have been for so long, the reality is, Black Lives haven’t mattered as much as all lives. Change has to come!

Wimberley, it is time to lean in, listen to the past and present voices amongst us, and enter into empathetic conversations, privately or publicly, as uncomfortable as they may feel--- for all parties. Anti-racist resources are available everywhere to be experienced in however you listen best---books, online webinars, and podcasts. Dare to be part of thoughtful communities who offer roundtables, zoom discussions, or book clubs—safe spaces willing to tease out your assumptions and privilege, with those who can be present with your discomfort. Familiarize yourselves with your unconscious biases, claim your part in the narrative.

Now is the time to be brave, Wimberley, dig in and do the work of unlearning and relearning, and make ourselves better for all.

Lovingly submitted,

Sandra Organ and Carlos Solis