Black squares are just the beginning – now is the time to speak up for you
To those who choose silence: your voice matters.
Remaining neutral in the face of racism can be misconstrued as agreement. Remember, your silence leaves a lasting impression on your friends.
Martin Luther King captured this sentiment perfectly when he said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
The tragic death of George Floyd was not an isolated incident or limited to America alone. It exemplifies the systemic oppression that thrives on the silence of white individuals. We can no longer tolerate this silence.
If your heart breaks at the mention of racial injustice but you take no action, you inadvertently create space for it to persist. Let’s move away from the blame game and start engaging in conversations, both within and among ourselves. Undoubtedly, this will be uncomfortable and frustrating, but it is more crucial than ever. We must constantly remind ourselves that silence is a privilege.
Recognize your privilege and wield it against racist remarks. Speak out and help others understand why their words perpetuate racism. Be prepared for others to hold you accountable in the same way. We exist in a racist society, and while it may not be your intention, you might unknowingly say something racist. We all need to educate ourselves, unlearn outdated beliefs, and develop a more discerning understanding of coded language. For instance, what does it truly mean when your white friends describe their neighborhood as “good”?
Listening is crucial, but people of color should not be seen as endless resources solely for your own education on racism. There are abundant free resources available on the internet. Additionally, diversify your social media timeline by following people of color. Strive to be an ally, not just a voice for a “minority.”
Engage in conversations with your family and friends. We all have a responsibility to help one another become more aware. Don’t let them dismiss racism as “just an American problem.” Racism and white supremacy are pervasive global issues that transcend borders. Countless examples exist worldwide, showcasing how deeply rooted racism is in our society, manifesting daily, in every corner.
You don’t need thousands of followers to make a difference, but you do need to be active. Merely claiming not to be racist falls short. It’s through active participation that you become anti-racist. If you’re not combating racism offline as you are online, there’s still room for growth. Being an activist is not a fleeting gesture like sharing a black square on Instagram. It’s a lifelong commitment that requires endurance through discomfort. Yes, you may get tired, but consider the exhaustion people of color already endure. It’s time for white individuals to prioritize Black lives over their own emotions.
