>>11446247In the past, I have allowed myself to be a bystander when witnessing racism against the black community. A selfish “Me” vs. “Other” mentality, perhaps embedded through a cultural upbringing and resistance to conflict exercised my privilege as a non-black POC. I fuelled my own internalized racism by refusing to challenge the status quo, and in turn, contributed to an inexcusable compliance in their oppression. Why do I exhaust all my power to lead a comfortable life, yet neglect those fighting for theirs? In what ways can I address these faults and act on them so that I can become a better ally to members of the black community?
It is not enough to send condolences to the countless families who lose their child, sibling, parent, grandparent, friend, relative, neighbour, on what seems to be an everyday occurrence. To stay quiet in fear is to be loud in ignorance. To turn a blind eye to suffering is to stand in favour of injustice. The level of hardship the black community has faced and continues to face is something I will never come to understand - I have not lived it. I cannot attempt to compare our experiences of racial prejudice, for it is not the same. However, I recognize the deafening weight of my silence when words are needed.
It is the responsibility of myself along with many, to seek education where knowledge is lacking and to donate funds, resources, and time when possible. So I will keep trying; the engaging, learning, educating, and supporting will not stop. Every second with which silence remains the only action taken is another moment racism prevails. To the black community: I see you, I hear you, I respect you, and I stand with you. Black lives matter. Not just now, but always. #blacklivesmatter
