Desmond Tutu said that “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”

It might feel uncomfortable advocating for issues that you have never experienced. You may feel like you do not know enough about a topic to advocate for the black community… All of that is understandable, but regardless, remaining silent perpetuates our mistreatment in the world. Essentially, you are co-signing the harassment and murder of our people by not publicly acknowledging the issues. It is not okay to just say you are not racist. It is not enough to say you have black friends. It is certainly unacceptable to say that you are neutral because as President Trump once said “there are very fine people on both sides”-- comparing a white supremacy group to those protesting the removal of a statue that represented racist and outdated ideals. 

So,  if you want to do more for the black community but don’t know how, I have created a short list of where you can start. 

Educate yourself on what you see circulating on social media and interact with posts about them! 

It is unrealistic to learn all about the black struggle overnight but a great place to start is with the issues you have currently been exposed to via social media or news outlets. Look into the issue and use your social media platforms to show that you care. Twitter is the easiest place because a simple retweet on a post that talks about the issue makes all the difference. On instagram, you can share information on your story as a way to not only spread awareness but show that you are supporting us.

Ask questions in the most respectful way possible and do your own research.

If you are confused or want more clarification, don’t just come to your own conclusions. Ask the people who are experiencing these issues first hand about their opinions and why they feel the way they do. I mentioned in the most respectful way because you have to remember that these topics are very sensitive and triggering for us. So, the way you phrase the question could impact the response you get. You could also ask Google! It's free and has so many resources that provide reliable and valid information. Taking these steps makes you more knowledgable about what's going on and will make you more comfortable discussing these issues. Besides, it’s better to do your own resource before asking a black person questions that could be mentally and emotionally draining for them to answer. 

Speak up when your white/non-black loved ones say incorrect or problematic things about these issues or the people facing these issues.

Sometimes our family members and friends hold views that we do not agree with. It is definitely okay for everyone to have their own opinions. However, a lot of controversial issues have a clear right and wrong answer. It is important that if your loved ones hold views that are harmful to black people, that you are very vocal about why you disagree. It’s okay if you are not able to spark a change of heart but it’s the attempt that matters. It may feel uncomfortable or ineffective but doing all you can to educate the people around you brings more awareness to the issues. Sometimes when you call someone out you cause them to reflect and use better judgement the next time they speak.

Those are just a few ways but I would definitely make a part II if this was helpful! 

Stay safe and empowered!

Love, 

The EBW