I am dedicating this week to the voices of the Black Community. If we are going to end racism and injustice, we must start with one very basic, simple understanding: Black People have as much of a right to live in our societies as anyone else.

#blacklivesmatter

The meaning behind this is not easy, as it requires us to break down assumptions that many of us have held for many years. For example: the assumption that the systems currently in place are meant to protect all of us equally. ⁠
⁠
#blacklivesmatter

For if our systems are broken, then our base assumptions are also broken. Instead of asking "What did George Floyd/Breonna Taylor/Ahmaud Arbery do wrong?" - ask "Why are the police driving into crowds of protestors?"⁠

#blacklivesmatter

This kind of baseline questioning is HARD WORK. But it must be done, for the sake of our friends, family, and society at large. Begin by following hashtags representing members of the Black Community. Listen. Ask Google questions. Read books and articles.

#blacklivesmatter

Talk to your community. Donate your time, talent, and/or treasure to the cause. There's so much to do, but it will be easier if we all chip in, instead of asking the oppressed to fix the systems that have oppressed them in the first place.⁠
⁠
#blacklivesmatter

Be safe this week, friends. Do the work, take breaks, and spread the message. I believe in us. ⁠
⁠
#blacklivesmatter #blackgirlstrekkin #outdoorafro #blackbirdersweek #melaninbasecamp #browngirlsclimb #justiceforgeorgefloyd #justiceforahmaud #justiceforbreonnataylor