I Can Do Better

My husband and I have lived in Louisville, Kentucky, for seventeen years. We've made this city our home where we are raising our girls. Although I spent several years living in the South, my recognition of racial injustice awakened when, as a mother, I heard the stories from black mothers about their ever-present fear of harm, especially to their sons, due to misunderstandings that lead to violent acts. Every wrongful death of an African American citizen at the hands of a police officer, who has sworn an oath to protect and serve, inflamed their concerns and sense of injustice.

Protestors took to my city streets this past week. A series of acts captured on video ignited citizens who saw the reality of racial injustice. My Facebook and LinkedIn feeds filled with posts of support for a community that deserves better. Like me, many white people ask questions about how to stand in solidarity and support in meaningful ways. If you are one of them, I have good news to share with you. 

On Thursday, Digital Diversity Summit, hosted by Tawana Bain, convened a panel conversation called "EQUIPPING WHITE WOMEN TO SPEAK UP AGAINST RACISM." I've linked the recording and encourage you to watch. 

I strongly believe that to be a part of the solution, I also need to learn about how I contribute to the problem. I want to honor the black community with support that is educated about when, where, and how to act (or not). I am working on my discomfort at owning my insensitivities and faux pas. I am interested in learning how to make space for and magnify the voices of my black friends. Owning and checking my privilege, and learning to become better at living the values I hold about ending racial injustice in America is uncomfortable. But I know that this feeling holds the most significant opportunity for learning. 

I am not seeking to debate or convince anyone that I am right. However, I am interested in connecting with others who share my interest in learning more and doing better. Please share other positive forums of education and enlightenment that may be useful to my journey. I can do better, and I am committed to learning how and connecting with others on the same path.