I’m really happy to see more and more people speaking up and saying that Black Lives Matter. I love seeing protests and donations and discussions that have started to takeover because of it. My only concern is that I hope people understand this is more than a social media moment. It is a movement.
So I’d like to share how I, as a white woman am working to make sure everyday I’m contributing to the solution. And before you say “I’ve always been an ally” or “I’ve always been aware” I encourage you to remember that this is a work in progress, you’re never done.
I’ve always thought of myself as someone who is not racist but the thing is, I’ve absolutely said things before, been uneducated, and can always improve. What’s the harm in knowing you can always be a better ally?
Listen
First and foremost, I'm listening to black voices. I’m opening my mind to just sit and listen to stories and experiences of black men and women and taking them for what they are - experiences I have never and will never have. I’m spending time listening without responding so that I take the time to really understand what these stories and experiences mean.
Reflecting
A lot of my time right now is spent reflecting on how/if/when I have been part of the problem. And if I have been, how could I have acted differently? I’m also looking at how the stories I’m hearing are shaping my viewpoint. How would I feel if I was this person? I’m trying to digest everything I’m taking in by simply reflecting on all of it. Taking the time not to speak, but to really digest what it all means and how I’ve been an ally and how I have been a problem.
Talking
I’m first and foremost talking to my white friends. We are having open dialogue on our part in this movement and where we can be better. We are talking about the stories we hear, the research we’ve done, and we are sharing the best places to learn more. We are having safe space discussions and checking in with each other before we speak and act.
Learning
I am constantly learning. Whether that be through reading, watching shows and movies and docs, listening to podcasts - I’m learning. I’m checking out articles, I’m on Twitter looking at what folks are saying. As much as possible I’m trying to retrain my brain. Education in America is based on a white experience. What we learn i school IS the white experience. I have a lot of that to unravel. It starts with seeking out the history that we should have learned and understanding how our country was shaped to oppress black people. It’s learning so that I understand the experience I didn’t have.
Sharing
I haven’t stopped sharing. On the socials, in person, at work - I am constantly sharing knowledge and encouraging discussion. It is my responsibility to do my part and keep the movement going. I’m not going to let it fizzle.
I hope that you’ll join me in continuing to work for change. I have noticed a lot of folks are already letting their feeds go back to normal, and its disheartening. It’s especially disappointing to see among people that call themselves advocates for change. Your entire social media experience doesn’t need to be BLM, but don’t completely erase those posts. Continue to push people to get uncomfortable. Call them out when they show they’re just here for a like on Instagram. Do your part. It’s not easy, but imagine being someone who actually lives this experience everyday. I want a better world. And I understand in order to have that, I’ve got to put in the work.