The Right Reaction
America is filled with rage, grief, and guilt right now.
As we navigate the social media blackouts, the traumatic reoccurring images, and the constant news updates, there is a lot of information being brought up that can be extremely overwhelming. On top of that, we have a sincere lack of leadership on both a national and local level. With all of this being thrown at us, it is normal for feelings of helplessness and anxiety to arise, and in response, I’ve seen a lot of people asking this question.
What is the “right” reaction to everything going on?
From what I’ve learned and researched this week, it is clear that we must embrace how uncomfortable we are and let that fuel the changes on both an individual and institutional level. Here are ways to educate yourself, support social justice, and promote systematic change.
Educate. There are many resources that, if you take the time, you will start to understand the systematic oppression of black people over time. “White Fragility” author Robin DiAngelo has crafted perspective in a hard-hitting yet digestible way. Her list of recommended readings also includes “Between the World and Me”, “Eloquent Rage”. “So You Want to Talk About Race”, and “White Rage”
Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is. Here is a list of bail funds by city to help protestors get out of jail. Campaign Zero outlines and campaigns for policy to decrease police brutality and killings. The Minnesota Freedom Fund pays jail bonds and fights for the release of wrongly incarcerated individuals. Reclaim the Block fights to reallocate funds given to police departments in order to foster and promote safer communities in Minneapolis. Lastly, support black-owned small businesses in your city and promote them on your social media platforms.
Show Up. If you are healthy, show up to the protests and marches in your city. If you are healthy. The individual health and safety of the protestors is just as important as the cause itself. We cannot lose more lives whether it be by police killings or coronavirus. Wear your masks and eye protection. Bring water bottles, gloves, and hand sanitizer. Be ready for what can happen.
Check In. The National Alliance for Mental Illness reported that black people are 10% more likely to experience serious psychological distress. That study was done before 2020 where, in addition to the fight against social injustice, black communities are disproportionately being affected by COVID-19. This is a stressful, terrifying, frustrating, exhausting moment in history, and that’s coming from me, a white person who has not had to deal with systematic oppression her entire life. Be aware of your privilege and how that has benefitted your mental health. Check in with your black friends and ask them what they need. Show your love and support.
Vote & Voice. Get out and vote. Beyond the fact that we have a huge election coming up this November, it is currently primary season on a local level. We the people must come together and bring in the leadership needed for true change. Make sure you are registered. Request your absentee ballot. Even more, hold your representatives accountable for their actions during this time through email, phone call, and letters.
Lastly, remember that black people are not required to teach you or show you what to do in response to racial injustice. Under no circumstance should you be requesting or requiring individuals to put aside their reaction to make yourself feel better about yours. Just as black people are reacting from their individual and communal experience, you should be doing the same to change the narrative and fight for justice.
As we are seeing more than ever, it is the people who show up that bring about the most change. We have a very long way to go, and we are not going to get very far if we do not come together and fight as one, unified, intentioned, educated force.