Black and Proud
I am black, I am proud, but I am tired. There are so many words I can say but the most important is that I need your help. Not just my community, but all of humanity needs your help. I need everyone, including you, to not only be speaking out against the injustices that are happening but also to start to actively supporting the black community. If you’re unsure what that looks like, or what that means I’ve put together some resources to help you expand your knowledge and show how you can support black people, which can also be applied to other minority groups, moving forward whether they’re your friends or in your communities. And I acknowledge that what I’m asking will not be easy but I’m asking you to be open. Open to learning, acknowledging that you might be wrong about some things, that you may not have the right solution, and open to growing yourself, open to taking action and holding others accountable for growth too. Because it isn’t just how you respond now in the heat of the moment but what you continue to do after the embers have settles that will help us create a better future!
How You Can Educate Yourself
Knowledge truly is power. If you don’t understand what is going on please take the time to learn. Again you must be open here, open to having your views challenged, to feeling guilty or uncomfortable. But do your best not to defend your position but truly listen to understand. I urge you to read books, articles, although please be careful as to whose articles you’re reading, and don’t be afraid to ask people questions about how they are expanding their perspectives on what is happening. Some great places to start are:
- How to Be Anti Racist- Ibram X. Kendi
- Me and White Supremacy- Layla Saad
- White Fragility – Robin DiAngelo
- Glitter Guide’s Anti-Racism Resource Guide
Of course there are many many more resources than the ones listed here, but these are a great place to start.
Where You Should Donate or Sign Petitions
For the People
- George Floyd Memorial Fund
- Amaud Arbery Fund
- Breonna Taylor Petition & Fund
For the Cause
- Minnesota Freedom Fund
- Reclaim the Block
- Detroit United Negro College Fund
- Detroit NAACP
- BLM Detroit
- Black Youth Project 100 Detroit
- Showing up for Racial Justice
- National Bail Out Fund– Free Black Mamas
- Campaign Zero
- Black Visions Collective
- Communities Against Police Brutality
- The Bail Project
- ACLU
Though I’ve already donated to some of these places, I’ve decided that to also match whatever contributions you make (up to a total $500)! If you contribute to any of the places listed above please shoot me an e-mail, at thelilmissjb@gmail.com, with screenshot of your receipt and I’ll match however much you put in! There are tons more options than what I’ve so don’t think this is in. In fact I encourage you to also look into what local organizations exist in your community and donate there as well to make a direct impact to the people where you live. If you’re unsure about an organization do not hesistate to reach out to them if you’re wondering how your money will help or where it will be spent. It is okay to ask those kinds of questions!
Black Owned Business You Should Support
One of the last ways you can support black people on a consistent basis is to spend your money at our establishments. Please don’t overlook black owned brands, stores, creatives and services in your area or online! I completely understand that not every brand is for everyone so again I encourage you to do your research and to find a few that align with you to support frequently. Here are just some that I love and have been suggested by friends:
Fashion & Style
Accessories
Beauty
Fitness & Wellness
Home Decor
Detroit Based Businesses & Virtual Services
So please, even if you don’t quite understand Still stand with me, with humanity. Do more than Just speak up, call yourself and others out, support black owned organizations and businesses when possible, and help out by actively being a part of the change.
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