There have always been courageous and intentional conversations about implicit bias and racism aimed at the black communities. These conversations happened long before the unjust deaths of George Floyd, Trayvon Martin and many others.
Though, the recent events about Instagram influencers in the Middle East and Eastern Europe who have been sharing photos of themselves wearing blackface as an act of solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, are now being slammed on social media after donning blackface in an offensive attempt to show solidarity and support for black communities.
We understand the intention was to show solidarity and amplify black voices. But this act appears to have emerged from a misunderstanding and a lack of knowledge on the subject that will make the support seem shallow or, worse, offensive.
It’s important to note that blackface calls to mind a racist history dating back to the 19th century. Blackface was created as a means of entertainment by white people, who used makeup to paint themselves black for performances known as minstrel shows.
As these performances were typically the only representation of black life that white people saw and they were used to degrade and promote stereotypes of black people, it has since been condemned for being racist.
Racism impacts black people all of the time. We can’t get away with it. So, if you are willing to help us on the journey to a more equal future. We must first learn how to be a better ally in the Black Lives Matter movement. Here are some actions to get us started.
Help in raising donations.
Even small donations have an impact. We don’t have to be a millionaire to make a significant difference, every penny has the potential to make a change.
Show up to protests.
Protesting is one way our voices can be heard as one around the world. Apathy can easily get to us when we focus on our own personal suffering on a daily basis. But protesting is a reminder that we are not alone in this. By working together as people with a cause, we let others know what is happening. We let them know the importance of what’s going on out in our big world. We have the right to march, so let’s do it.
Sign Petitions.
There are a numerous number of petitions circulating in the wake of George Floyd’s killing, and we can add our names now. #JusticeforFloyd and Justice for George Floyd are urging that all officers responsible in any way for the unjust death of George Floyd must be arrested and punished for their crimes. There are also petitions calling for justice for Breonna Taylor, Ahmed Arbery, Belly Mujinga and many other black people killed in the past few months.
Show solidarity on Social Media.
We could post links to resources or fundraisers, state our support and solidarity, and share anything that we would seem helpful.
Start a conversation with our friends, family and colleagues.
If they’re openly racist or don’t believe they’re racist, we must challenge them. It may be uncomfortable, but we have the power to engage people in these issues who might typically avoid them. No backing down. We know what’s right, so let’s spread the word.
Support black creators and business owners.
If we want to help black people at a deeper level, the best way to start is by supporting their creative and business ventures. We can start by promoting them, buying their books, music or films, donating to their Patreon pages and amplifying their voices by sharing or retweeting.
Keep listening and learning.
There will always be new ways that we can help. Let’s keep our ears open for new lessons and let black people guide our actions.
Reference: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/politics/a32711399/how-to-help-black-lives-matter-support-protestors/
