a time for reflection
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| photograph courtesy of teen vogue magazine |
In light of recent events, many, including myself, are currently reflecting on the past and present issues surrounding racism. The murder of George Floyd represents just one case in far too many in which black people have been knowingly oppressed and given truly unreasonable and frankly disgraceful treatment. I found it heartbreaking to learn of the incident and can only hope justice can be given for a gentleman who should be still here today. In fact, justice needs to be given for ALL black lives and to those who face, and have faced racism. I would hope that most are already educated to recognise that white privilege is real and understand the critical events which have shaped racism over centuries. Now I hope we can all pledge to erase the prejudiced attitudes which still exist and cause hardship for so many across the world.
With all this in mind, I will make a note of some of the things I intend to do in order to help eradicate an issue which I hope one day will cease to exist, only in our memory. Please do whatever you can, big or small, to support our black communities and other oppressed groups.
1. Voice. Sign petitions. Protest if you wish. Understand that your voice counts and numbers help raise important issues to the people who have the power to make real changes. Speak about issues with your friends and family. Let yourself be heard and show gratitude for the freedom of speech that so many have been deprived of.
https://www.change.org/p/mayor-jacob-frey-justice-for-george-floyd?recruiter=false&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=psf_combo_share_initial&utm_term=97b2cc4e319e495081b02f6c4c16aabc&recruited_by_id=10469520-a19d-11ea-b79c-b7165b116d0a&utm_content=fht-22414602-en-us%3Av2
2. Education. Read about oppression, black rights and the lives of black people. Learn about white privilege. Similarly, if you can, educate others and use your position to speak out against racism. Talk to young people about it in an age-appropriate way. Our future generations have the ability to lead us forward. We must have hope and faith in them all.
3. Support. Show solidarity with the people around you who are suffering or may suffer in the future due to racism. Let them know you care and stand by them. Don't be afraid to join the chains on social media. The more people who share posts, the more people who see them, and ultimately more people will consequently stop and reflect.
Jess ⚡
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