May 30th, 2020
Normally, I like to stay lighthearted when it comes to the Weekly Wrap. This week, though, I’m asking you all to join me in looking at the racism and violence reaching a head in the U.S., and to take action to combat these things.
Life Beyond the Blog
On May 25, George Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who knelt on his neck for 8 minutes, despite George’s protests that he couldn’t breathe. The following day, protests began in Minneapolis, initially peaceful, but escalating into outright rebellion that damaged the police precinct and some stores in the city.
By now, I expect you’ve heard about this. By now, I also hope you’ve done something to support the folks seeking justice for George Floyd and the many other Black people who have died at the hands of cops, like Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and so, so many more.
And when I say you, I mostly mean fellow white folks. To be silent right now is to be complicit, and I hope you’re using your platforms wisely. Now is the time to boost Black voices, to amplify their presence, and now is the time to decenter yourself from the conversation. Allyship is a must right now, and though it’s going to take some unlearning, we need to do it.
Below are some links not only to fundraisers that could use your support, but to resources for reexamining your relationship with white supremacy and racism in ways that will ultimately combat those forces.
Bail Funds
Brooklyn Bail Fund — Louisville Bail Fund — Massachusetts Bail Fund — Colorado Freedom Fund — Chicago Community Bond Fund — Free Them All For Public Health
Community Support
MIGIZI — Black Visions Donations — Reclaim the Block — North Star Health Collective
Ways to Be an Effective Ally
Beyond the Streets: 26 Ways to Be in the Struggle — Anti-Racism Resources Google Doc — How to Safely and Ethically Film Police Misconduct
And as a reminder: please do not donate to Shaun King, who is infamous for promising support and then never producing the money he’s collected. He repeatedly takes advantage of Black communities, especially black women, for his own gain.
Additionally, donating at the end of a change.org petition doesΒ notΒ go toward the cause in question. It simply funds the change.org website and keeps that petition visible for a longer period of time. Your money, if you’re able to give, is more effective elsewhere.
Posts This Week
Where Dreams Descend Review — T5T Summer Reads — May Writing Recap
The Week Ahead
The work doesn’t end overnight, or in a single Weekly Wrap. I’m planning to spend this week keeping an eye on the news and looking for ways to help. I may not be able to go out and protest, but I can put my money where my mouth is and donate to bail funds and Black Lives Matter. Hopefully, you’ll join me. Solidarity and support are absolutely requiredΒ right now, and not just for the next few days. There’s work to be done not just by a few of us, but by all of us.
I hope you stay safe this coming week, and you seek out ways to help as best you can.