The past few weeks I’ve been flooded with emotions. When I first heard of Ahmaud Arbery, I was so angry. I had just begun my running journey and it made my blood boil to hear how his life was taken from him. There have been many stories since, such as Breonna Taylor and George Floyd that have broken my heart.
Now I’m not here to talk about my feelings because that defeats the purpose. We need to be listening and amplifying Black voices.
I’m writing today to share just a few points of what I’ve learned, as well as some resources.
WHAT I’VE LEARNED (more to come):
1. Our Criminal Justice System needs to be reformed.
After watching the documentary 13th (watch it here), I was troubled to know just how corrupt the system is. Do you know about the “war on drugs” and how the Nixon administration targeted Black people? Even now, 1 in 17 white men will do prison time, whereas 1 in 3 Black men will do prison time. In addition, 97% of people take plea deals and don’t go to trial, in fear of losing and spending the max time in prison.
I was also troubled to learn about prison labor and how many companies profit off of it. This Instagram post lists many of these companies. Knowing what I know now, I certainly will be purchasing from different brands.
ACTION: These are some organizations you can donate to that help with reforming the justice system: The Bail Project & Equal Justice Initiative.
2. Black or African-American?
What is the politically correct term? Growing up in school, we were taught to use African-American, but not everyone prefers that. If you’re unsure of which to use, check out this Instagram post.
3. Juneteenth
January 1, 1863 was the day that President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. However, it took over two years for this to be heard in Texas. June 19, 1865 is the day when ALL Black Americans became free. Let’s make this date a National Holiday – sign this petition.
4. It’s not enough to be “not racist”
We need to be anti-racist. We need to call out any racist words, actions, or beliefs that we hear. Every. Single. Time. No matter how uncomfortable it is to do so. That is how we are going to make change.
This Instagram post shares talking points you can use if you aren’t sure how to speak up or what to say. Staying silent is no longer an option. If you choose to stay silent in these moments, you’re choosing the side of the oppressor. You’re allowing racism to exist.
5. I have hidden biases that I need to examine
We all do. We might not even realize that they’re there. Studies have shown that children as early as 3 years old begin to pick up racial prejudice without even knowing their significance. Although we’re not responsible for our first thought, we are responsible for our second thought and action.
This Instagram post did a great job at explaining this. The next time a bias pops into your head, recognize that it’s there and then check yourself.
6. White privilege and systemic racism is SO real
Graphics are from courtneyahndesign Graphics are from courtneyahndesign
This Instagram post lays out white privilege + systemic racism, in case you still don’t think they exist. Growing up, I never thought twice about things such as bandaids or ballet shoes matching my skin. That’s called white privilege.
7. What’s the largest bedroom in your house called?
Racism shows up in different places in society – even your home layout. My friend is a realtor and brought up something I never thought about. The biggest bedroom in your house is called the Master bedroom. Think about that.
8. Police reform isn’t as radical as it sounds
Camden, New Jersey actually dissolved its entire police department 7 years ago. They fired police, started over, and the city’s crime dropped. As more cities in the United States (such as LA) begin to reform their police departments, keep an open mind. Police brutality needs to end, and it can.
ACTION: Donate to end police violence in America at Campaign Zero
9. Did you know the ice cream truck song is racist?
Yes… check out this Instagram post.
10. Voter Suppression – it’s still an obstacle
Voting is crucial to getting the changes that we need. However for many Americans, it’s nearly impossible to do so. Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was repealed in 2013, which means states can implement voting changes as they see fit, without approval from the federal government.
What does this mean? States can remove polling locations from neighborhoods of lower-income families. This creates overcrowded polling locations, broken machines, and long lines… all of which prevent people from voting. Do you remember the Stacey Abrams vs. Brian Kemp election in Georgia in 2018?
States can also unregister voters as they see fit. This is voter suppression and actually works in favor of the Republican Party. Why do you think Republican leaders are against mail-in ballots, which would make voting more accessible to young, low-income, and high black populations?
This Instagram video does an amazing job at explaining this.
ACTION: The best way to fight voter suppression is to VOTE. Stand in the long lines. Make sure you’re registered to vote here. Know your voting rights in case you experience any issues. Send an e-mail to your senators telling them to pass the VRAA, which would reinstate critical voting protections. Fill out the 2020 Consensus to ensure your neighborhood is being accounted for in the electoral college. Encourage your neighbors and friends to do these things too!
Final Thoughts
This fight will last a lifetime, but we can be the generation to end racism.
Fighting racism isn’t a week-long trend on social media. It’s something we all need to continue fighting daily, for the rest of our lives. Hopefully we can create a future where our children don’t need to fight racism.
My friend sent me this resource list and its truly INCREDIBLE. Whether you’re a parent trying to figure out how to discuss this with your kid, or just looking for some Netflix shows to educate yourself with, this link has it all.
emily hein says
Thank you for sharing this, Kellyn. All this information is super helpful!