As the Black Lives Matter movement sweeps the country once again, we continue to cry out for justice and equality in all aspects of life. With wider eyes, we are monitoring what politicians do and say to support us. It’s a moment when they can’t so easily “fake the funk” when it comes to empowering people of color. Pandering and platitudes just won’t do.

Nebraska is home to great restaurants, a phenomenal zoo, and truly decent people. But when it comes to politics and policies that affect black people, it needs some work. With its unicameral legislature, it is the policymaking unicorn of the United States. That may be a point of pride for many, but it doesn’t seem to be working so well for some.