Over the past few weeks, there have been several events, from Coronavirus to racial injustice, that have affected our jobs and the way we work. Although we may be focused on our careers, there are several things everyone can do to be even more supportive in the fight for racial equality.
1. Be a visible ally. Show up to protests, post information in support of racial equality on social media, sign petitions for change, and help amplify the voices of Black people in productive ways. Correct others when they say something that minimizes the efforts of those fighting for justice. Encourage others to do the same.
2. Take action against inequality. Minimize purchases from companies that have not expressed a genuine interest in recognizing that #BlackLivesMatter. Donate to people, organizations, and causes that are fighting for justice, peacefully protesting inequities, and working to change our country for the better.
3. Educate yourself on the systemic injustices that exist. Go to reputable sources to inform yourself of the racial disparities that exists in police arrests, criminal charges, and prison sentencing. Understand the systemic structures in place that negatively impact or hinder the progress of African Americans. Read books (like White Fragility by Robin Diangelo, How to be Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi, or The new Jim Crow by Michell Alexander) and listen to a podcasts centered on Black issues (like 1619 , About Race, and Code Switch) so you are educated on what inequities exist and better understand the plight of those who may look and think differently than you are accustomed.
4. Apply pressure on persons in power to ensure justice is served. Contact your local police chief and state attorney general asking for police body cams to be turned on at all times, improved methods of evaluating police misconduct, and standardized officer trainings that minimize the use of undue force and shootings during civilian arrests. Support campaigns like 8cantwait.org. Contact your mayor, governor, and state representatives asking them what policies they are enacting and supporting to help decrease racial tensions and health care disparities in your city.
5. Help right the wrongs by increasing opportunities and resources for African Americans. Choose an area of interest ranging from economic advancement, educational attainment, criminal justice reform, and health care improvements to focus on. Contribute to organizations committed to achieving justice. Support black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Consider donating to historically Black colleges and universities or creating scholarship funds for minorities at your alma mater. Create and support programs at your local church or surrounding community committed to teaching financial literacy, expanding career opportunities, and providing healthcare access.
My point? Many Black Americans would love to have non-black allies who are committed to supporting the fight for racial equality. We, as Black people, want to know that we can count on you to speak up against injustice, support policies that promote equality, and vote for politicians who help ensure these propositions are passed in Congress. Even if you aren’t Black, these are things you can do to show that #BlackLivesMatter.