SCREAMING FROM THE MOUNTAINTOPS
Where do I even begin?
The last time I wrote on this blog we were facing coronavirus concerns and I was trying to figure out how to adjust to our “new normal”. Now, amidst continuing concerns about this global pandemic, we’re in the middle of what’s becoming the next Civil War. 2020, you really have showed up and SHOWED TF OUT. Jesus, help us all. In the midst of this unprecedented time, I’ve been using my God-given skill of writing to give a voice to the voiceless. I can’t bring myself to protest in the streets in the midst of a crippling pandemic (although I WHOLEHEARTEDLY support the protestors) but I have vowed to myself and to my community that I will use my voice today and forevermore. Instead of writing short articles about my new favorite boots or my favorite red lipstick, I plan to use this space for a bigger purpose….until….well I’m not entirely sure for how long.
I believe that there is no other conversation right now. There is NOTHING more important than highlighting racial injustice and working together to find solutions to this age old problem. So, I want to share some of the work I’ve been doing on social media within this space. With that said, I’m sharing a recent post from my Facebook page below. Leave a comment if you’re feeling convicted to use your voice as well. I’m constantly praying for a better tomorrow. If you’re a believer, I hope you are too. xoxo - Ashley
P.S. I included some pictures of peaceful protests from around the country below. Images are not my own. (found on various sites). Enjoy. ;)
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I want to be very clear about a few things. Y’all ready? Listen up.
#1) When you’re referencing the racial injustice that’s happening in our country, be sure you mention BLACK people specifically. I’ve seen lots of people of color that are also racist towards black people. Be clear: there are LOTS of amazing allies that are POC (I have several on my Friends list and I hope this doesn’t offend y’all. I love y’all.). A lot of them also endure awful racism & oppression, but in the midst of today’s climate, we need you to voice your support for BLACK people during this time (and always). Also, it’s ok to call us black. Most of us prefer it.
#2) If you’re white and you’ve been silent lately because you’re trying to find the “right” words to say, stop that. We need your voice and it’s very possible that you might get it wrong — but the important thing is that you’re speaking up and showing support. I’m sure if you get it wrong, someone will gladly correct you (hopefully in a respectful way).
#3) Black creators, black activists, black authors, black directors, black restaurateurs, black business owners, etc. need your support ALWAYS. Not just in the midst of what’s becoming the next Civil War. You should’ve noticed a long time ago that you weren’t supporting black businesses and black people. If you haven’t before, your support is long overdue.
#4) If you work for a brand/company that is supplying lots of lip service about what’s happening in the news right now and how they’re standing in solidarity, CHALLENGE the leaders to actually do what they say. Diversity isn’t just about hiring the token black guy. That’s not enough.
#5) Your black friends and coworkers are NOT OK right now. You have no idea what it’s like to be dealing with a global pandemic that has disproportionately affected our community in the midst of trying to fight for our basic human rights. #GeorgeFloyd is a name that’s been added to a LONG list of unarmed black men & women that were antagonized and killed by the police in the last several decades. THIS FIGHT IS NOT JUST ABOUT OUR BROTHER GEORGE. I’d venture to say that EVERY SINGLE black person you know could tell you stories about their frightening run-ins with cops during routine traffic stops. I certainly have a few stories. And if they don’t have stories about racist cops, they certainly have several stories about overt and/or systemic racism that they’ve endured in their lifetime. Just know this is all very heavy and it affects our mental health.
We’re not ok and we won’t be until something changes.
