Make it make sense yall. Black people are hurting. Emotions are heavy. We are confused, torn, numb, angry, sad, helpless, alone. All these feelings swirl through my mind, my heart. What do we do? Where do we go from here? How can we impact a lasting change? When will we ever be looked at as equal to whites? Black people and people of color deserve equity. Are we not human?
This past weekend, I’ve tried to process all of what is going on. And today, I write this to help put in words how I am feeling; how many of us are feeling. But the truth is, I don’t have an answer. This is something that will not be solved by locking up one police officer. The system must change. White people and those who feel unaffected by George Floyd’s death need to feel as outraged as black people and those who are affected.
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.” –Benjamin Franklin
By standing together, justice can be served.
It’s easy to think, “but I don’t know what I can do to help.” Protesting is an explicitly impactful, undeniable, powerful method. And if you don’t understand it, Kareem Abdul Jabar breaks protesting down beautifully. There are numerous ways to show solidarity. Step up. Speak up. Show up.
Ways to Take Action After the Death of George Floyd
LEARN
- Me and White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad
- American Son on Netflix
- How to be An Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
- So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
- 13th on Netflix by Ava Duvernay
DONATE
- Equal Justice Initiative – a nonprofit committed to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States, challenging racial and economic injustice, and to protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in American society. Donate Here.
- Black Lives Matter – An organization with the mission statement of bringing justice, freedom and healing to black people across the globe. You can become a “Global Member” by donating $5 to support their campaigns. Donate here.
- The NAACP Legal Defense Fund – Donations to this legal organization go toward helping win landmark legal battles, protect voters across the nation, and advance the cause of racial justice, equality, and an inclusive society. Donate Here.
Lastly, I want to leave you with this. Today, my friend Andrea said something that touched my heart:
Silence is not violence. Silence is a decision. Every decision comes with consequences. If the consequences you’re experiencing are not getting you what you want, you can always make a different decision. -@andrearanaej
Step up. Speak up. Show up.
In solidarity in attaining justice for all.
Chika
