Okay. I’ve finished my work for the day and can now articulate my frustrations with the performance of white people when it comes to equity. Because I’m tired of being tokenized. And there are plenty of other Black and brown people who are tired as well.

Today, it was announced the Southside would receive much-needed access to green spaces; something that is desperately needed. The political timing aside, this is great news for residents in South Richmond.

However, I already know what happens next.

It was stipulated that *now* community members will participate in shaping these green spaces. Yes, this is good and necessary. But, I think about how none of the Black/brown staffers at the city responsible for engagement weren’t part of the Green Team.

I’m also seeing how the Green Team was formed. This has been an issue I’ve raised a while ago. We cycle through the same people during planning processes and don’t bring new voices to the table. Or, at least don’t attempt to bring in new voices to the table.

Something that bothers me about white environmentalists is how little they go outside of environmental circles until they need something. Meaning, there’s very little time spent working with faith leaders, civic groups and long-term residents before an ask.

So, what happens is the one or two Black and brown people you know is then tasked with connecting their network, and sharing their insights of the community, and implementing projects *after* white-led orgs already have grant money or plans are in place.

Richmond has a bad habit of doing this. And it’s worse that the city, and many of you fine people, talk about equity but only focus on equity when you wanna help the ‘poor Black folks.’ Not during planning or funding.

Yet, you always wanna collaborate on something.

My frustrations start with how people are invited to the planning process and those who don’t speak up when they see a room full of white people.

It’s not acceptable to keep inviting the same 2-3 melanated people you know.

Grow the network.

Now, I understand how few of us are out here in the environmental, transit, urban planning space, etc. But I also know these are intersectional issues where you can start tapping folks in other issue areas, including housing and even healthcare.

When the city and parks and all the groups start shaping these green spaces in Richmond, use this as an opportunity to build long-term relationships so we not asking for public participation of Black and brown folks after decisions have been made.

AND...I’d like to see recognition for the Black and brown staffers at the city and within your organizations that I know is doing this work but not getting credit for it.