“It is white people’s responsibility to be less fragile; people of color don’t need to twist themselves into knots trying to navigate us as painlessly as possible.” — Robin DiAngelo, author of ‘White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism
I have yet to see the 8:46 minute video of the murder that shocked the world.
I mean, do I really need to see another video or image that is just like another Tuesday for people like me?
The answer is no.
To keep my mind and spirit in a decent place, I’ve been quiet on purpose. I don’t need to add my thoughts to the many others online who are doing such an awesome job speaking their minds.
I’m happy that the topic of racism against Black people is making waves and that people are also talking about systemic racism, White fragility and microaggressions.
But I’m a little tired of being on the receiving end of the “I’m so sorry! What can I do” question.
It’s great that people want to know what they can do but at the same time, it’s not up to the Black people in their circles to provide education and a curriculum. Those types of conversations are very draining on us.
But since I’m glad that the rose colored glasses have been torn off the faces of the non-believers, I’ve been offering this four step starter process:
- READ a book or two about anti-racism. By learning, even a little bit, you’ll be able to have a more meaningful conversation with someone else and also be able to reflect on the privileges you have;
- LISTEN and don’t discount the experiences we share with questions like, “Are you sure that happened because you’re Black?” 99% of us know exactly when our race (and nothing else) is an issue for someone;
- ACT when you see someone do something racist. SPEAK UP, when you hear someone say something racist. To be anti-racist, you can’t turn a blind eye. You actually have to act against it and right wrongs ;
- SELF-REFLECT AND COURSE CORRECT. Self-reflect on your own unconscious biases and the microaggressions (funny video) you may be complicit in.
Marquessa 
You’re very wise to not have watched
I have written about what white allies look like, which I’ll publish next month because I’m tired of conversations, right now.
Anywho, thanks for this.
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I will be looking forward to reading that. From what I’ve seen, allyship has mostly been in one direction so I’m glad to see others joining in – I just hope they take action on their own in their personal lives. Black people are usually quick to support the fight of others but when the shoe is on the other foot…crickets.
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I haven’t been able to watch the video either. Just to know that it happened and how it ends makes it hard for ME to breathe.
Your 4-step process is spot on, because it is a “process.” Buying a few books by Black authors, watching movies with Black characters or posting quotes by MLK will not lead to the change we need but only to a temporary “I did good” moment that will fade. If there’s no inner reflection and resolve to be an active part of the solution… there will be more George Floyds.
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Exactly. Actions, not just words. If you can’t do that, you’re all talk.
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Pingback: Recommended read: right wrongs – Melissa Rose Rogers, Writer
Hey Melissa! Thanks for stopping by and mention my post. 🙂
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Oh #2… whew!
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Lord #2. My face says it all when I hear #2…and it gets real quiet…
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