Black Lives Matter
I am standing in solidarity with Black Lives Matter and taking a stance against racism and police brutality. Demanding justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and countless others is completely necessary. I recognize my white privilege and know that I will never live the experiences or fully understand what it is to be a black person in America, but I respect and stand with you.
“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” – Desmond Tutu
Police brutality must end now. Racism must end now! My heart is broken. I don’t want to see more lives lost. ?
The murder of George Floyd (and countless others), the riots and protests, and witnessing further police brutality because of this brought to light a lot for people around the world. 19 million squares were posted on Tuesday for Black Out Tuesday in support of Black Lives Matter.
Come Together
It’s been tremendously moving to see so many people come together to fight racism and inequality. Although the black squares encourage conversation it’s not enough to just post on social media or to write about it. We must take action so history does not continue to repeat itself. Quite frankly, I’m tired of seeing white people posting they feel “hopeless” or “helpless” when there is so much action that can be taken right now. Imagine if each person that posted a square donated $1 to the Black Lives Matter movement. That would be an additional 19 million dollars on top of what is already being donated by individuals and corporations that could be allocated towards healthcare, education, anti-racist legislation, and additional resources for black communities.
Take Action
I’m taking action, and hope that my dear readers are too. I’ve donated to bail funds for protestors and to Black Lives Matters. I’ve peacefully protested, signed petitions, I’m registered to vote, and prepared to vote for change. This is not a trend for me, however the past few weeks have showed the deeper importance of using our voices and actions to demonstrate and support what we believe in. I will continue to fight for justice and equality.
I encourage my readers to:
- Amplify Black voices and support Black owned businesses
- Protest (Non-violently)
- Register to vote, and to show up at polls
- Donate
- Fill out the census
- Sign petitions
- Call and email your representatives
- Educate yourself and others by reading, watching, conversing
- Call out injustice when you see it (especially in your industry/specialization)
Amplify Black Voices
It’s important to amplify black voices in all industries and to support black owned brands. By amplifying black voices you’re sharing experiences and stories that need to be heard and by supporting black businesses you’re intelligently allocating your dollars towards economic equality.
Support Black Business Owners:
Support Black Creators:
I’ve been amplifying the voices of black creators through my podcast, Nomad Moda The Podcast, and will continue to do so. Check out these episodes specifically to hear from these beautiful and inspiring black women:
The Beauty Beau Owner Candace Hampton – “Stay True to Your Brand”
Wardrobe Stylist Shernae Nichole – “Your Biggest Asset Is Organization”
Author Charmel Catrell – “Don’t Allow Fear to Take up Residence”
Wedding Photographer Regina Fleming – “Photography Is Like Dancing, You Better Catch The Beat!”
Fashion Stylist Karis Battle – “Fear Should Motivate Not Deter”
Find and Attend Protests
Check out the ACLU People Power website
Follow Movement for Black Lives On Twitter
Some Protests are listed on Event Brite
Register to Vote
Be sure to register to vote to make your voice heard and vote for change on the county, state, and federal levels.
Donate to Non-profit Organizations
Use your Sephora Beauty Insider points to donate – Many have said this isn’t the ideal way to donate, and I agree. The funds go through Sephora first and then to the Black Justice Coalition. However, if you have points sitting around and you don’t have another way to donate I still believe that this is better than not donating at all. You need a minimum of 500 points to donate.
Fill Out The Census
Filling out the census is a good way to make sure that you and your family are accounted for. This helps the government decide where to distribute funds.
Sign These Petitions
Educate Yourself and Others
Watch:
13th
Do the Right Thing
Blacks Brittanica
Malcom X
Fruitvale Station
Freedom Riders
Slavery By Another Name
Eyes on The Prize
Soundtrack for a Revolution
Dark Girls
LA92
Read:
Feel Free by: Zadie Smith
Beloved by: Toni Morrison
The Weary Blues by: Langston Hughes
And I still Rise by: Maya Angelou
Buck by: M.K. Asante
Between the World and Me by: Ta-Nehisi Coates
A Burst of Light by: Audre Lorde
Sister Outsider by: Audre Lorde
Such A Fun Age by: Kiley Reid
Well-Read Black Girl by: Glory Edim
Listen to:
National Resource List
The National Resource List provides a plethora of helpful links and support for black people experiencing trauma, and for others who wish to be better allies.
Every Voice Is Needed
Don’t underestimate the power that you have as an individual to create change. If everyone does their part we can conquer racism together. The support for Black Lives Matter (during a pandemic I may add) has shown what happens when everyone comes together for a common cause. Please promote and share these resources. Encourage your friends and family to educate themselves, join the conversation, and to support the cause. I will continue to share resources in my Instagram stories under the “justice” section and let this post serve as a master list of resources that will be updated regularly.
Diversity is what makes this world a beautiful place to live in. With much power, respect, and love to the people fighting the good fight, let’s keep the momentum going and end racism together <3.
Resources:
https://time.com/5847912/movies-to-watch-about-racism-protests/
http://www.pbs.org/black-culture/explore/10-black-history-documentaries-to-watch/
https://bellocollective.com/16-podcasts-that-confront-racism-in-america-f8f69baf529d
Who is the Founder of Black Lives Matter?
Opal Tometi, Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza
When was Black Lives Matters Founded?
July 13, 2013
What does BLM stand for?
Black Lives Matter
2 comments
Jennie Schacht
June 20, 2020 at 12:36 pm
Thank you, Deena, for this thoughtful and ACTION-ORIENTED post and great resources. May I also suggest the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund (https://www.naacpldf.org/). Keep up the activism and thanks for voting!
Deena Danielle
June 22, 2020 at 11:49 am
Hi Jennie! Thanks so much for your reading the post, your response and advice to add the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund. What a great resource!