filed on: 06.04
  • share

How to Support the Black Community Today and Always

By now you’ve all heard the public outcry over the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and many other Black lives society is unaware of. I understand that these conversations are uncomfortable and looking within yourself to acknowledge how actions and silence have affected this entire movement for years isn’t easy. This has been happening to the Black community for decades and we’ve been fighting for justice and peace for just as long. Seeing our allies come together during this time and be more vocal than ever has been so inspiring to see. On the other hand, I know that a lot of you are feeling helpless, scared, or confused. Being an ally doesn’t come with a handbook, but there are things you could be doing and be conscious of to help the Black community today and every day.

Sign the Petitions

Whether you believe it or not, your voice matters. The more signatures that these petitions have, the sooner action will be taken. I’m sure that you all saw the additional three cops present during George Floyd’s murder were charged and arrested, and initial charges for Derek Chauvin were elevated to second-degree murder. There’s no doubt that the support of the public inspired officials to take swift actions to look into these charges and make the arrests. We still have work to do, but start by signing these petitions. It doesn’t even take five minutes of your time!

Support George Floyd

Change.org

Justice for Big Floyd

Color of Change

Support Breonna Taylor

Change.org

Stand with Bre

Move On

Support Ahmaud Arbery

Change.org

Run with Maud

NAACP

Donate

A lot of us are putting our money where are mouths are, and for good reason. These movements need our donations in order to stay afloat. I know that not everyone has the means to donate right now, but if you can inspire your company, family, friends, or peers to get involved, let them know how important this is. Whether it’s a donation to the Black Lives Matter movement, or donations to programs for supporting Black youth, it’s time to get involved.

George Floyd Memorial Fund

Justice for Breonna Taylor

I Run with Maud

Black Lives Matter

Minnesota Freedom Fund

Communities United Against Police Brutality

The Bail Project

NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund

Use Your Social Media Presence

Silence isn’t the answer. Everyone should be using their social media platforms to help amplify melanated voices. Now that everyone has posted their black squares, what happens next? Well now it’s time to share resources with your audience who may not find these anywhere else. Share the petitions, share the donation links, and share Black voices that they should follow online. Another great initiative is to find Black-owned businesses in your city or state to support. Do the research, share your findings, and continue the chain of support. Black lives need you and your platform right now and moving forward. I’ve shared some graphics and templates myself with a ton of information, and Black Lives Matter has graphics you can use to share your support as well.

Accounts to Follow

@Aclu_Nationwide

@ColorofChange

@BLKLivesMatter

Attend a Peaceful Protest

The protests aren’t going to stop. Contrary to what a lot of reports are saying, these protests are peaceful and are a great way to show your solidarity. Find out when a protest is happening in your city and show up loud and proud! Make a sign, get ready to march, and use your voice to fight against the injustice that’s sweeping our country. Encourage your friends and family to attend as well. If you’re unable to attend a protest, consider hosting a virtual one over Zoom, or use the time to educate yourself. You can find a detailed list of anti-racism resources here.

Bail Funds and Legal Help By City 

VOTE!

June Primary elections occurred in some states this past week, but they’re still coming. On June 9th, West Virginia and Georgia will have the opportunity to vote, and on June 23rd it’s New York and Kentucky’s turn. You can get personalized updates for elections in your city by texting ‘VOTER’ to 26797. So many people fought for our right to vote and right now it’s more important than ever to exercise this right. Put a safe voting plan in place and get to the polls!

FREE RESOURCES 

We are so lucky to live in a day in age where we have free resources readily available. It’s never been easier to learn and educate yourself. Please see some links below that I have found really informative and I encourage you to share them with your loved ones.

Black Maternal Health Reading List 

Anti-Racism Resources for White People

BlackGirlsSmile.com Resources

Support LA’s Black Owned Restaurants 

32 Black Female-Owned Brands and Entrepreneurs 

How to Talk To Children about Race and Prejudice

Race, Racism, & Mental Health Resources

 

To everyone who has been using their voice to support the Black community: I see you, I thank you, and I appreciate you more than you’ll ever know. 

Featured Image by: @ohhappydanni

filed in: Lifestyle