How to be an upstander to racism
There is so much out in the world to digest right now - social media is brimming with excellent education for Black History Month. I've been getting caught up in the feeds reading story after story of incredible, resilient, inspiring people who have shaped the world we live in today.
Sometimes, when we get flooded with so much, however, it can begin to feel overwhelming. Social media moves fast, comments fly onto the screens, and shaming seems more common than true engagement.
If you find yourself getting caught in the pulls - wanting to learn and do more and wanting to take a break and escape for a while, please know you're not alone. This is such a common challenge in this work! Remember, too, that it is the care for your emotions and needs in one moment that allows you to re-engage and take action again in the next. Both are necessary for a sustainable process.
To support you this week, I've gathered a selection so you can pick and choose what you need for this moment in your emotions and in your growth...Pick what is best for you right now, and know the rest will be there for you to come back to later.
First, if you haven't done so yet, you have a few more days to add to the fantastic list of favorites for Black History month. Simply reply to me through this email with any books, places, or experiences that have been most beneficial and impactful in your personal journey toward racial justice.
It's such a gift to see how many ways each of you have found growth. I'm compiling them and will have them ready to share next week.
Second, a brief warning of the discomfort and pain of really seeing the injustice. As I was combing through options to share this week, this video caught my attention for how quickly and clearly it summarizes a complex chain of injustice and inequality. This video speaks for itself about the influences and impacts of bias. As such, it does include some heart-wrenching and infuriating images and information. (Video: How US schools punish Black kids.)
While a disturbing reminder, it also focuses our attention to how systemic these biases are throughout our systems and how important it is to track numbers and data to really see and address the patterns that need changing.
Third, there is so much hope in seeing the many, many people doing incredible things with their gifts, platforms, and talents and how younger generations are growing up with a passion and commitment to justice.
If you have children, you can enjoy this short video together about being an Upstander to Racism via Sesame Street. Perhaps you can get the whole family singing and dancing along! It's another good reminder that speaking up doesn't have to be complicated!
If you want to be inspired through movement and music, the figure skating of Elladj Baldé and his use of platform to support inclusion is certainly worth a watch! The beautiful natural environments along with his emotion and passion are inspiring.
And, if you prefer a few quotes to uplift and connect you to the energy and influence of great people you are joining in your effort, check out this list of inspiration for Black History Month.
You matter. You can make a difference. I'm so thankful you're here.
