This week has certainly been devastating for the United States so I wanted to share some interesting pieces to read, watch, and listen to so we can educate ourselves on the deep racism in our country. Today I’m sharing some articles that can help educate non-black people on the racism happening in our country as well as actions we can take to be an ally to the black community. I’m also sharing some lighter topics and shows in the mix.

I am a half latina, half white woman. I’m not black. I don’t personally know what it’s like to live everyday in fear from the police and the racism they face everyday. I hope through this post I can be an ally to the black community. Silence is not an option. 

Read

Remember, No One is Coming to Save Us (The New York Times)- This opinion piece really struck me hard. The main point of the article is that no one is coming to fix racism. Racism has been long ignored by non-black Americans and our leadership has done nothing to help or change that. Racism is not just a black people problem, it’s an everyone problem.

“The rest of the world yearns to get back to normal. For black people, normal is the very thing from which we yearn to be free.”

-Roxane Gay, The New York Times

5 Racist Anti-Racism Responses “Good” White Women Give to Viral Posts (KatyKatiKate)- This article goes over seemingly not racist responses that white women gave to the video of white woman, Amy Cooper, calling the cops on Chris Cooper, a black birder. Essentially, responding to videos with blatant racism like this one with responses like “Not all white women are like that” is problematic because it shifts the conversation from the racism Chris Cooper experienced to white women when we need to be talking about Chris Cooper’s experience instead.

From Camping To Dining Out: Here’s How Experts Rate The Risks Of 14 Summer Activities (NPR)- As I’ve adjusted to live at home, the thought of going out into the world has become more anxiety provoking. I really miss being able to just go to Lake Tahoe without having to overthink whether it’s safe. This guide from NPR rates summer activities like going to the beach, getting your haircut, BBQ’s, etc. and explains how safe or risky they are virus-wise.

Take Action

Sign Petitions

The easiest way to get involved is to sign petitions demanding justice for George Floyd. I signed this one and it literally took one minute.

Donate

Sharing posts on social media certainly helps spread awareness about the issues at hand, but donations can help support people fighting for justice and equality. I donated to Black Lives Matter. There is also a GoFundMe for George Floyd’s family that you can donate to.

Discuss Racism with Loved Ones and Friends

Like I said, sharing posts about racism helps spread awareness, but the real change happens by having difficult conversations about the murders, protests, racist behaviors, etc. with your family, friends, coworkers, etc. I know it’s tempting to look away from the tragedies happening in our nation right now, but true change happens by talking and educating yourself.

VOTE

I can’t stress how important voting is. Voting for people who represent your values is the foundation of democracy. If you’re angry/devastated about what’s happening in our country right now, ELECT CHANGE. Vote for people who stand up for communities that are suffering.

Watch

Insecure (HBO)- I talked about Insecure in my 8 thing to do at home while social distancing post, but Insecure’s fourth season came out and it was so good! The show is about a millennial black woman navigating the adult world. The show has really great conversations about racism, relationships, and being an adult. This season focused on friendships drifting apart which is something nobody talks about! We’ve all experienced “friendship breakups” and they’re never easy. Issa Rae, the main actor and producer of the show is such an amazing storyteller.

Avatar the Last Airbender (Netflix)- If you’ve never seen Avatar, it’s now on Netflix to watch for the first time or rewatch! Cullen and I both watched the show as kids so it feels so nostalgic to rewatch the show again. Even though it’s a kids show, it has such an amazing plot that is actually surprisingly deep. Regardless of your age, I can guarantee you’ll love this show! It’s about a boy with powers who can save the world from the reign of the evil fire nation. 

Listen

Honestly, all the news has been so overwhelming and devastating this week, I have really struggled to find the words to express how I’m feeling. I really hope that all the racist events that have occurred in the last month are a wake up call for our nation that something needs to change. If you don’t know what to say, LISTEN. 

Listen to black people who are suffering, listen to your friends and family, just listen and then make different choices that support the black community because this violence is not okay. Ignoring this is not an option. Listen to black stories whether it’s on social media, music, television, etc. Look at the diversity (or lack thereof) in your workplace, schools, city, etc. `

Black Lives Matter.

I really hope you found this edition of read, watch, and listen helpful. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments and have some discussions with you. Sending love to all those who are hurting today <3