THREAD:

White friends:

I know it's hard to see the images of police violence and burning buildings. I know how tempting it is to just tune it out, ignore the news, or even go off of social media altogether. The thought of doing that has even crossed my mind. I get it.

1/5

... But as soon as I thought of doing that, I realized that this was a clear indicator of my privilege.

The fact that I CAN CHOOSE to ignore the suffering, fear, and oppression of BIPOC is because of my white privilege. BIPOC people don't get a choice.

2/5

... They live with that fear. Every. Single. Day.

Is it hard to see?
Hell, yeah.

Does it impact my mental health?
Undoubtedly.

Do I have an obligation to bear witness to it and amplify the voices of BIPOC?
Absolutely.

3/5

... Do I have a responsibility to call out other white people with privilege and demand they pay attention?
For sure.

Will I make mistakes along the way?
Yes, and I have.

Do I have to own up to my mistakes and learn from them?
Unreservedly.

4/5

... The reason it's upsetting and uncomfortable is because it is unjust. Ignoring it won't make it go away. Stop "tuning out the negativity" and work to end it.

"If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor." - Desmond Tutu

5/5