Scared to do something, and scared to do nothing
I hope this finds you well as you begin another week! If you've been continuing to stay engaged through reading, news, social media, conversations, protests, or any of a hundred ways to pay attention to and care about inequality, then you've likely been feeling the intensity of the struggle and discomfort...
Am I doing enough?
Am I doing it right?
If I say something, am I going to get it wrong?
If I don't say something, am I going to get called out?
How can I hope to make a difference?
This seems impossible and overwhelming. I don't know what to do!
I get it. This is challenging, uncomfortable, ongoing work and we are reminded of it any time we open our eyes and ears to what is going on in the world around us. It can be scary to do something, and scary not to do anything. Either way, we're afraid of getting it wrong, being criticized, or, perhaps worse, making unintended mistakes and hurting those we are trying to support.
Because of how hard it is, it's even more important that we stay connected to sources of support, learning, feedback, and encouragement, and I'm hopeful that we can continue to create that type of community with one another.
I'll be continuing to share reflections, resources, tips, and tools weekly via email (sign up here). I also am posting approximately daily at FaceBook.com/SocialJusticeAllies/, and recorded a video there last week based on my recent conversations with people about the "right" way to be an ally as well as #6 in the Microaggression Monday series today about "All Lives Matter." The recordings are available on the site; I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Also, looking ahead, here are a few things to watch for:
I am planning to share the Facebook videos to another platform so non-Facebook users can also watch them when interested.
I'm looking into community options outside of Facebook that may feel more protected and private for those who want to continue in discussions and build community without the Facebook Troll/publicity factor.
I'm reflecting on our conversations so I can design future offerings that best match what you need (so please let me know your ongoing thoughts and needs!)
Stay tuned for more specifics on each of the above and please do continue to share your ideas and questions for how I can be most supportive in your process.
You matter. You can make a difference. I'm so thankful you're here.
