- [Narrator] And now, a message from Arthur.

(bright music) - I gotta call Buster.

- Hey Arthur.

- Hey Buster.

Did you see that video?

- Yeah, I just watched it.

It was awful.

I can't believe someone would be hurt like that, just because they're Black.

- Racism is so unfair.

No one should ever judge someone by the color of their skin.

- But how could it happen here, in Elwood city, right outside the sugar bowl?

- Buster, it happens everywhere.

I was talking to Mrs. MacGrady the other day.

She said there's a really long history of Black people not being treated fairly in this country.

- It has to stop.

- We have to do something.

- Yeah!

(light upbeat music) But what can we do?

I mean, I'm eight!

I can't even fry an egg on my own.

- I don't know.

(gasps) Maybe Mrs. MacGrady can give us some ideas!

Hold on.

(keyboard clacking) - Hello boys, I'm so glad you reached out to me.

Yes, I saw the video too.

And let me tell you it made my blood boil.

- Me too!

- It also made me scared.

I mean, this happened in our neighborhood.

- It is scary, Buster.

But you should know that a lot of grown ups are fighting racism and working hard to keep us all safe.

- Why does this keep happening Mrs. MacGrady?

- Well, racism is like a disease.

If you don't treat it, it's just gonna get worse.

- Wait, if racism is a disease, can I get it?

- Buster, don't worry, this isn't about you.

- Actually, it is.

It's about all of us.

It's not enough to just say, I'm not racist, it's not my problem.

We have to actively fight against racism.

As my friend, John Lewis, once said, "If you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have a moral obligation to do something about it."

- So what can we do?

(gentle piano music) - Well, one of the most important things is what you're doing right now.

- Eating carrot sticks?

- (laughs) I mean, talking about it.

Talk about racism with your friends, your parents, your teachers.

Don't be afraid to ask questions.

We all have a lot to learn about this issue.

Also, listen.

Listen to people who have experienced racism firsthand.

Imagine what it would be like if it happened to you or someone you love.

And finally, act.

When you see or hear of someone being treated unfairly, stand up for them, say something!

It might be scary, but I guarantee you it's better for everyone.

And it's the right thing to do.

- Wow, you've really inspired me.

- Yeah, thank you Mrs. MacGrady.

- I'm going to talk with my parents about this right now.

- Hey mom!

- Me too, bye!

- Whoa, that's it.

I was just getting going.

Remember kids, talk, listen and act.

If we work together, we can make a difference.

And eat those carrots too!

(laughs) (beep chiming) (gentle music) - [Narrator] Explore more with Arthur on the PBS KIDS Video App.