I am overwhelmed with emotions over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, America. This shocking act of human indecency is the catalyst unmasking the deeply embedded institutional discrimination that still exists today, stemming from deceit, lies and fear. Racism is a recurring pandemic hosting centuries of oppression, injustice and killing towards people of colour across the world.
"No justice, no peace."
Staying silent makes us part of the problem! Acknowledging and speaking out to expose this painful truth, sparks the conversation and promotes change.
Yes, systemic racism is the harsh reality that people of colour have to encounter every single day. Conditioned within society to be mindful of how to speak, interact, keep their head down, work 10 times more, and avoid any confrontation. The visceral lack of representation, support, respect, and recognition leads to issues of resentment, poverty, lost heritage, sustained trauma and broken dreams.
"We can't breathe."
"We are tired."
Living exhausted, yet still having to fight harder to prove one's self-worth and knowing the world would judge, make assumptions, stereotype and even act differently, already sets out the arduous path of survival in a system of privilege and prejudice that's bigger than ourselves alone.
"Being able to live without having to be defined by the colour of your skin is the hallmark of privilege."
Luvvie Ajayi
If you don't understand, then educate yourself. The world is a huge resource and there's so much information at your fingertips. If you want to know how to help, then do your part in supporting more people of colour. Support our communities, businesses, families, education, health, creativity and wellbeing. Respect our history, traditions, languages, food, values and ways of life, and don't make it a fashion trend.
Support Black-Owned Businesses: 450+ Places to Start Online is a vital resource for those looking to make a positive impact through their purchasing power. By highlighting a diverse range of black-owned businesses, from creative arts to tech, this guide empowers consumers to support economic equity and diversity. It's a call to action for mindful shopping and investment in communities.
"We need leaders not in love with money but in love with justice. Not in love with publicity but in love with humanity."
Martin Luther King Jr
This is a long time coming: Today's global movement of conversations and protests, people from all races are galvanised across the world like never before to unite in solidarity and rebel against racial unrest and inequality.
"This is more than a race issue - this is a human rights issue!"
destorm power
The world is rich with culture inhabiting humans of all shades from all walks of life. We must end these inexcusable acts of hatred and continue to spread awareness so future generations can live in a brighter and kinder world. You have the platforms to empower this aid for humanity.
Regards,
Kerri Louise Howard-Slaughter
