Motivation 2020: May Peace, Love & Justice Prevail #blackoutday
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jnr.
Motivation 2020: May Peace, Love & Justice Prevail #blackoutday
I am sharing posts that express my pain and thoughts on the events of the last 7 days when many around the world got to watch an 8 1/2 minute video of George Floyd being slowly and painfully killed by a police officer’s knee pressed to his neck. I cannot bring myself to watch it but I’ve read many accounts of how it played out. Where is our humanity? our compassion? our common decency? To remain silent in the face of such a reprehensible act is a betrayal of all humanity. I am comforted by the peaceful protests led by people of all races. I am comforted by members of law enforcement who have spoken out and called it murder. I am comforted by the dialogue going on in many circles and blackout Tuesday that brings this 400+ year problem to the forefront again, again and again. This post is also addressing a discussion in another group about Blackout Tuesday/Mutes and other some other points on responding to these events. I am including resources for those of us who sincerely want to understand the issues; those who want to listen and learn and speak up honestly without being distracted by other stuff. May peace, love, and justice prevail.
Why This Matters: As a black woman who has family, friends, and an upbringing that spans our global community, I am moved by all peaceful actions that speak to the solidarity we need in the face of racism, hatred, and ignorance.
In 1955, Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr led a non-violent, peaceful protest to fight racial Injustice in Montgomery, Alabama. The Montgomery Bus boycott was the impetus behind that protest. What led to it? Rosa Parks, in a single act of defiance, refused to move to the back of the bus and that act triggered a movement that grew beyond Alabama. The boycott was meant to be for 1 day and the rest is … civil rights history.
Non-violent Resistance/Civil disobedience has many faces and people choose an approach that resonates with them. Blackouts, art, donations, speeches, peaceful protest, and a wide range of creative endeavors fall under the rubric and all have merit.
George Floyd’s brother, Terence, spoke out yesterday asking for peaceful protests, educating ourselves, and using our votes to make a difference. These are all important steps we can take to bring unity in a time of sadness. How we choose to express it is up to us and blackout Tuesday serves a purpose because it shows a form of support.
Can we do more? Definitely. We need to educate ourselves on our racial history, teach our children, speak up, support justice, and remember that it all begins in our hearts and homes. We are all human first, and until we see that humanity in each other’s faces and honor it without prejudice, we will continue to struggle with discrimination.
As a black woman, a person of color, I cannot claim to speak for all black people because we are as diverse in our thinking as we are in our shades of melanin. I speak from my heart, my experience, my training as an educator, and my membership in the human race.
During this time, we need to encourage and empower each other to choose our own way of expressing our sadness over the death of George and the many others who have suffered similar fates in the African American community. I believe we are all God’s children and I believe that visual, verbal, blackouts/mutes, and all creative actions that speak to the solidarity we need right now are valid.
Please take a moment, if you wish, to read Dr. King’s philosophy on nonviolent protests: https://thekingcenter.org/
and also Mahatma Gandhi’s Satyagraha philosophy: https://www.mkgandhi.org/faq/
Different approaches, same goals. May peace, love, and justice prevail. Please remember that the issues at hand speak to the 400+ year negation of people of color and the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter brings attention to years of systemic, structural, and institutional racism in this great country. Some of it is covert but, a lot of it is overt, and we must no longer deny its existence. So to say that black lives matter doesn’t mean that all lives aren’t sacred, ALL LIVES are. When we all can see the humanity in everyone we will all begin to truly live the dictum that #AllLivesMatter
READ RESOURCES:
-
- Teaching for Black Lives, Edited By Dyan Watson, Jesse Hagopian, Wayne Au. Rethinking Schools.
- Black Lives Matter at School, the website of the national coalition organizing for racial justice in education.
- 2020 Curriculum Resource Guide, BlackLivesMatteratSchool.com
- Creating the Space to Talk about Race in Your School (PDF), National Education Association
- Lessons by grade-level and educator resources, Washington DC Black Lives Matter
- Discussing Race, Racism and Other Difficult Topics With Students, NEA and Teaching Tolerance Webinar
- Free resources from the book “Teaching for Black Lives,” Rethinking Schools
- Diversity – The First Work is Within – Jane Fried
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/diversity-first-work-within-jane-fried - When You’re Done: Educate Yourself. This Doesn’t Go Away Once The Topic Isn’t, “Trending.” -Ways You Can Help BLM –
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. ” Mark Twain
Motivation 2020: May Peace, Love & Justice Prevail #blackoutday
Read the story below and contemplate it carefully. What is the lesson here?
The Two Travelers and the Farmer
A traveler came upon an old farmer hoeing in his field beside the road. Eager to rest his feet, the wanderer hailed the countryman, who seemed happy enough to straighten his back and talk for a moment.
“What sort of people live in the next town?” asked the stranger.
“What were the people like where you’ve come from?” replied the farmer, answering the question with another question.
“They were a bad lot. Troublemakers all, and lazy too. The most selfish people in the world, and not one of them to be trusted. I’m happy to be leaving the scoundrels.”
“Is that so?” replied the old farmer. “Well, I’m afraid that you’ll find the same sort in the next town.
Disappointed, the traveler trudged on his way, and the farmer returned to his work.
Sometime later another stranger, coming from the same direction, hailed the farmer, and they stopped to talk. “What sort of people live in the next town?” he asked.
“What were the people like where you’ve come from?” replied the farmer once again.
“They were the best people in the world. Hard-working, honest, and friendly. I’m sorry to be leaving them.”
“Fear not,” said the farmer. “You’ll find the same sort in the next town.”
READ/WATCH RESOURCES:
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- An interview with the founders of Black Lives Matter (VIDEO), Ted Talks
- NEA activists launch series of video “primers” for anti-racist white educators, NEA EdJustice
- Transformational action through Art Build, NEA EdJustice
- Share Art for Action, NEA EdJustice
- Grim – Do You Hear Us? (VIDEO), NEA YouTube Channel
- Marley Dias talks Institutional Racism (VIDEO), NEA YouTube Channel
- Black Lives Matter at School – Resources via edJustice
The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for AMAY – JUNE 2020 are:
MAY
05/01 – 01 May Day, May is Mental Health Awareness Month
05/03 – 03 World Laughter Day/ Press Freedom Day, 05 Cinco De Mayo/ National Teacher Day/World Asthma Day, 06 National Nurses Day, 07 National Day of Prayer
05/10 – 10 Mother’s Day (US), 15 International Day of Families, 16 Armed Forces Day/International Day of Light
05/17 – 17 World Telecommunication and Information Day, 20 World Bee Day, 21 World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, 23 Eid al Fitr Starts/Ramadan Ends/International Day to End Obstetric Fistula/World Turtle Day
05/24 – 24 National Brother Day, 25 Memorial Day, 28 Shavuot Starts, 29 International Day of UN Peacekeepers, 30 World MS Day/Shavuot ends, 31 World NO Tobacco Day
Are You Looking for Ways to Stay Creative in 2019?
06/01 – 02 BLACKOUT DAY
- Join Our Blog Support & Engagement Group
- Check out the Daily Post for Inspiration. Resources. Idea
- Checkout Your Daily Word Prompts
- Check out SheKnows for SheKnows Living
More Below
“The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jnr
Motivation 2020: May Peace, Love & Justice Prevail #blackoutday
Motivation 2020: May Peace, Love & Justice Prevail #blackoutday
What more can we say? What has become of our sense of dignity, compassion, and humanity? When we stop believing that all lives matter, we become part of the toxic, ugly, evil that is becoming pervasive in this world. There is no legal, moral, or self-defense justification for restraining a handcuffed man lying prone on the ground by pressing on his neck as he begged for his life because he couldn’t breathe. George Floyd could have been one of our brothers, fathers, friends, or husbands. May his death not be in vain. May peace and justice prevail. My condolences go out to George Floyd’s family and all his loved ones.
READ RESOURCES: College Student Educators International – ACPA
#blkSAPblackout List of Resources
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1G9iGnw36kZC7gFINmqKxKmxfiJvY8DRKU1BN43NhKt4/edit
FREE BOOKS in PDF form to educate oneself on race, gender, sexuality, class, and culture – Tyree Boyd-Pates
http://tyreebp.com/2016/01/14/free-books-on-race-gender-sexuality-and-class-that-are-bound-to-get-you-woke/
Self Care For People of Color After Psychological Trauma – JustJasmineBlog
http://justjasmineblog.com/self-care-for-people-of-color-after-emotional-and-psychological-trauma/
Concrete Ways to Be an Actual Ally to Black People – Avital Norman Nathman
http://www.maximummiddleage.com/right-now/alton-sterling-philando-castile-how-to-be-an-ally-to-black-people
Teaching Materials – or Educators, Parents and Students
Any Zen Antics stories via 
Positive Motivation Tip: We are one human family and when I’m hurt, you are hurt.
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Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
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Mirth and Motivation
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We have to fight for justice! Don’t just let them rule over us! #justice
I haven’t been able to watch it either. I’ve seen a screenshot and that’s enough. It’s so scary to think about everything going on right now. While I am not black, I have many friends who are. We’ve talked about racism before and how we feel like we may have experienced it as a group when we were all at a spa together recently. But I love that my boys (and husband and me) have a large variety of friends, so hopefully we can do our best to raise them to do their best.
I couldn’t watch it either. From what I read and the few seconds I saw, It was so cruel, it took my breath away. I totally agree with you. It all begins in our homes. We all know when we are teaching our children love or hate. If we make an effort to broaden our world view, we get the rewards you mention; diverse friends with diverse world views. That is how we grow. Thank you.
Thanks for the reminder of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. I love what you said “Let peace, love and justice prevail” well said
Unfortunately black people are suffering even more as looters destroy the businesses and lives that they spent years trying to build. Where does this end? How are we living this barbaric way in this day and age?
Please read up on what is going on. 99% of the protests are peaceful. Is the destruction of property more valuable than the loss of life? While we must not condone looting or acts of violence, we must also speak out against acts of racism, hatred, and ignorance. Do you know what is barbaric? Kneeling on a human being’s neck for 9 minutes and watching him die a slow and painful death while he begged for his life.
How sad that people get treated so badly on the basis of their race. Hopefully the protests will make an impact and things will change for the better soon.
This post is really very heart touching and true..Currently racism is getting more common and the news just breaks everyones heart…
I am so disappointed in this world and specifically in my country. We absolutely need to do more.
George Floyd needs justice even he did such thing using counterfeit money. I think he didn’t deserves it. We are all equal and need to treat fairly.
I live in a country without much of racial diversity and tons of issues regarding our rights. But I don’t think it is reason for me to ignore the black lives and issues your skin color might bring you. I can never fully understand but I as woman of ethnic minority I know how it feels like to have your genes affect they you are treated, it must very hard of any black person because it is amplified greatly. I think is movement is very important. I pray our children live in a world of true equality
Your prayers are mine too. TY!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings about these tragic times. I was watching the “Where is the love” Black Eyed Peas music video yesterday, and it is so sad, how things are still the same when that song was released nearly 2 decades ago. I am saddened at the lack of love people have for one another. Hopefully we will see change!
I feel the same…
I am so glad that most of our country is coming together to fight the continued systematic oppression that protects bad police officers. I am a white women raising an Afro-Latina daughter and I hope that this current push for justice helps change things.
Amen to that!
well said. very good post. i especially love this line — when we stop believing that all lives matter, we become part of the toxic, ugly, evil that is becoming pervasive in this world.
We can and must do better. Racism must be eliminated.
I live in Spain and the news have been covering this topic a lot. I think it’s important to raise awareness and fight for the equality and for no violence.
It’s been crazy this month. Definitely necessary in some elements though.
It’s difficult to stay positive at a time like this when change has been asked for hundreds of times but still no answers for social justice. But the quotes you post and words you write keep motivating. Peace to you and yours.
Thank you, dear one. It’s difficult to grapple with this but we need to come together and work to see the change we all need around the systemic racism that pervades this great nation.
Your post and your blog are so important and well laid out. Thank you for using your voice to help people understand that Black Lives Matter!!
I do believe that Black Lives Matter. Also, it’s all about openness and acceptance. Regardless of color and gender, we need to be inclusive.
YES YES keep sharing this info its so important to educate people. Thank you for sharing this!!!!!
I am sure we all want to have Peace. SO I wish you all peace as well in your life. God Bless you.
I am so sad about everything going on. Justice needs to be done for George Floyd. I’ll sharing this post.
It begins with the family, in the family. Don’t blame the world, begin with thyself.
This is such a powerful post. We have to be the change for the funture generations. We need to make love their legacy.
Nice post. This discrimination between race is all in our minds. Wishing the world a speedy recovery.
George Floyd’s video makes me so sad too. I hope for the best justice he could have .
Racism is the worst enemy of US, until now. They should change the way they live.
I started high school in 1985 when South African cities erupted with school boycotts to protest the apartheid regime. When I see the images and video footage on tv it reminds me of a dark time in my country’s history and I pray for the safety of those who are impacted in the US now.
Amen and likewise…
The entire thing just breaks my heart. Every time it breaks my heart.
This whole situation and the countless other racially fueled murders have been disheartening. However, I am glad that light is being shed on the racially biased police and I hope that justice is served. I also hope that these protests and the support for this movement will continue because it will definitely assist within causing more change.
I don’t know when people will understand that we are all different shades of the same color! I am seriously praying for change. We must come together to stop this racism.
Indeed it is very deep and your words just touched my heart..Great work..thanks for sharing such motivation..World has to change…
Cool. My heart goes out to every race that are trampled upon by people who think they are superior.
I do hope with all my heart that this murder will not be in vain, that the culpable will be punished and that the world will change. Because it needs it! As a white person I will never be able to understand, I will probably not know what to say… but I have a voice and it’s my duty to learn and inform myself, so that I can support my friends better.
Amen, amen, and amen. <3
I’m shocked and pained by what is happening… like you say, there seems to be a complete lack of compassion and understanding in the world right now.
That’s so sad 🙁 RIP George Floyd, I am so sorry his daughter has lost her father
Try to love care and respect eachother. There opens a good society
I like this compilation of resources and suggestions. It’s very helpful.
We just had a very peaceful protest in my neighborhood the support towards george Floyd. Other parts of our neighborhood had very violent riots but are stayed very peaceful and we got to share our support and love.
We definitely need to do more. I agree with educating ourselves and our children
This is such a well written and thoughtful post. It has been a such a troubling time in our world, hoping for peace soon!!!
Reading about what happened to George Floyd disgusted me beyond belief!
I find it hard to put into words about the anger I have felt this week about the events in America.
My thoughts go with George’s family!
This event is really bad. But the worse is how the government is ready to send in the army on its own people. Most of them are peaceful protester. Where are we heading with this violence that doesn’t seem to end soon?
I think it is our right as Americans to show our support and participate in changing the world. And I love protesting, but peaceful protesting. All of these events sadden me and anger me. I’m so sad and furious for what happened to this young man, but I’m also sad and furious for the violent protesting that has ensued as well. Just so sad all around.
First and foremost, I am distraught by the loss of life. George’s children and family won’t see him ever again and his kids would grow up to see this video again and again. The psychological damage is massive. The looting and violence by demonstrators stopped after the first day. By the way, the looters were of all skin colors (Ditto the protestors), and looting took place in all sorts of neighborhoods not just in black communities. Yes, it was deplorable but it has stopped. I am glad that people of all colors and walks of life have come together to name this disease and demand change. Since the first day mishaps, it has been peaceful protestors and some incidents of excessive use of force by police.
Thank you sharing your story. I am hoping for change and that these protests will bring change that is needed and not just be forgotten.
I pray for peace and love, I pray that we all learn to listen to those that are different than us.
These motivation quotes are so good! Especially for a time like this year! Definitely great content!
Your posts always inspire me to have a better day
I have watched and been reading about George Floyd’s brutal killing too. It is so harrowing to watch and painful to accept. I can’t stop wondering why we have still not learnt anything from how bad we have fallen as humans. Especially from all there is to learn from this pandemic
Yes, the pandemic was supposed to be an eye-opener about valuing life, and being grateful for what we do have… it made no dent on the killer. Equally sad in all this is that there are decent, hardworking law enforcement officers who live up to their badges by protecting us all. Then there is that percentage that tarnishes everyone.
This is really a timely post, it gives awareness to everyone that being racism will makes you to become a bad person. No matter skin colors do you have every persons LIVES REALLY MATTER.
Now if we could get those who thrive on hate to get onboard, we will be on the road to recovery and healing.
I just got upset, frustrated and angry when I watched the video. I wanted justice for the Black and have equal rights in USA and around the world. Prayers send to the Floyd’s family.
I watched and it was so painful. We need to stop this and bring peace to this world. Thank you for sharing it!
I love the posts going around educating folks!
Thanks for this super timely post. I participated in Blackout Tuesday and will be donating to several organizations.
No words can describe the pain of what is happening to the black community and it’s important that we all take a stand and stop racism. I’m hoping justice will prevail.
There is tremendous pain globally over the brutal, cold-blooded murder of George Floyd. No one deserves to have the life slowly choked out of them by another human who pressed his knee against the deceased’s neck for almost 9 MINUTES!!! I could not bring myself to watch that video. I wept at the thought of a grown man crying and begging for his life. I wept at the thought of a grown man calling for his mother as he was being slowly murdered by asphyxiation. There is no legal, moral or rational justification for such an atrocity, and anyone who thinks there is should walk in George’s shoes or imagine that was a deeply loved family member.
Amen to that. Thank you Alyssa.
Thank you for sharing this post
I so agree with Martin Luther King’s quote. For me, it’s more sad and tragic when someone just kept silence over any injustice and cruelty.
The farmer story is excellent and so true.
The current situation extremely saddens us and all we can hope and pray for is justice and peace. Very timely blog.
Such an important issue, Thanks for sharing so much useful information!
Thank you for your honesty and heartfelt message in reflection to what is going on today. I will be spending some time today to think about what is occurring and how I as a writer, mom, and educator respond.
This is really lovely friend. Now is the time that we need to stand together.
this blog is much inspiring and interesting..late Dr. Martin Luther King was an amazing personality..Great work…
This is an awesome article, the need for us to teach our children the right way is very important, but it’s all start from our character and behavior, they adopt what the adults or parents are doing as a part of life and culture, they follow the same steps when they grow, it’s not all about just telling them to do so, we must practice it, so they can see. The Bible says “Train your child in the way he should go and when he grows, he would not department from it”. This can help solve the issue of racism in the future.
I completely agree with you. Children are very observant and they mimic what adults in their lives do. As a child, I watched my parents and copied a lot of the things they did too. My parents had friends from all over the world and they loved all their friends without prejudice. If you’ve read my blog a bit longer, you’d know that my first caregivers were a white family my Dad hired and paid to take care of us when my Mom was gravely ill in London. The Bates were fantastic and loving parents. They showed my sister and I that love sees beyond color and pulsates in a pure way. They were great examples too just like my parents. When you grow up with that foundation, you see all people as people first NOT as this shade and that hue and you treat them EQUALLY. As I write this, I’m acknowledging that it will take a concerted and sincere effort for us to overcome this racist barrier. Like ti or not, the change will eventually come. Many never believed that South Africa would overcome the apartheid regime but she did. Many never believed that Rosa Parks refusal would result in a powerful movement for change but it did. A lot needs to change. Even Hollywood needs to change because so many pay lip service to ending discrimination and then go right back to business as usual.
Thanks for sharing this post. Everyone need more love, more empathy and more global unity! and Everybody together for that!
hi
i live in India and what you are witnessing in the last seven days have been the bane out here and the reality is that they are fuelled by politics and power dynamics that brainwash gullible people. I hope that peace prevails in your land soon
As a white woman, I feel my main role right now is to step back and listen. Listen to the voices who feel they haven’t been heard. And speak out against white friends and family members who try to downplay what is going on right now.
I hear you, Cyndi. Thank you! We all need to listen and learn and come together to change the discriminatory practices that exist in this country and that has been going on for 400+ years. Ignoring it won’t make it go away. Honest and open dialogue is important so I appreciate feedback like yours and some of the other comments I have received on this post. I think if we can stop and remember we are all human first and that we hurt, bleed, suffer pain as humans, and have loved ones, we might be on the road to progress. Sadly, there are those who don’t see black people in the same lens they view their own race or loved ones and that attitude is toxic and contributes to the problem.
The world need more love than hate, more hope than despair and more unity than disintegration. Let’s pray and hope for a better world through our collective and individual efforts.
How interesting. I loved your blog.
A much need thoughts for the present for a bright future. Appreciate your work.
Thanks for sharing!!
This is a very timely post that everybody should know and attend to. We must spread peace and love in this world not hate or racism. We must respect every individual no matter who he/she is.
It is unbelievable what has been happening…and in the last seven days. I hope this is a turn around the corner!
These travesties have been going on for years–the difference is that now they are being filmed. It’s hard to ignore what you see with your own eyes. We can and must do better.There is no excuse.
Yes, thank you for your sincere feedback! These discriminatory practices have been going on for years and the difference now is that people are capturing them on smartphones so the lies of the past can no longer hold water. What saddens me is that even as we continue to see peaceful protesters from all walks of life gather to speak out, there remains that element in our society who refuse to recognize the problem. They are either fixated on the looting that occurred the first day by trouble-making agitators of all races or they are in denial that the problem exists. The looting is no longer going on, we need to focus on the impetus for the demonstrations. I’m more disgusted with people who treat the snuffing out of a life like it’s no big deal. Instead of facing the issue head-on in an honest way, they make an excuse or change the subject. What are we protesting? Why does it matter? Why tolerate what we would never wish on our own family or friends? Enough said.
Precisely. In the past, it was the Cop’s word against the Victim’s and now the tables have turned. That said, some people still prefer to stay uninformed and run with fake news reports.
You are so right. These things have been happening since slave patrols began once slaves were emancipated. Finally we have the technology to show the world.
Your posts always inspire me and make my day so much better
This is the Time and the Season to stand together for the justice towards EACH human being in this country and on Earth.
George Floyd incident is deeply disturbing. Let’s hope for peace and love to prevail, as you said.
I have no idea if those black screens helped. I did not put one because I think that it was better for everyone of I keep on voiceing out the injustec and the change we despretly need in this world. I hope the black screens help. I hope they all hear your voices. I hope that this all will bring someting good. I hope that we will change the world for future generations. I hope we will let love be their legacy. I hope that they will not have to go through all of thi again. I hope good will win.
“We are nonviolent with people who are nonviolent with us.”
— Malcolm X Despite our attempts at peace under MLK earlier movement, they are still urging non-violence as an answer when it was they who killed him. MLK decided upon this approach out of necessity for the survival of his people not because it wasn’t necessary. Also, he made attempts to secure a gun license and they denied him saying that he was a terrorist.
I think the blackout hurt the underground black movement. Social media has been able to connect black people in ways like never before. We cannot afford to do a blackout day When social media had been our main way of sharing violence against black people.
It’s so gross that these things have been happening for so long. We need to seek justice and make change.
Even I could not see the video, it hurted.. He kept on repeating for more than 14-15 times that he cant breathe and still the policeman kept his knee pressed. It was terryfying. Racism is everywhere and in every form. It had been there since centuries. People had been fighting for it since long time. I really hope this time the spark about George Floyd will let racism come to an end. I know I am dreaming for the impossible, but I really wish..
Let’s stay hopeful and faithful…
Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. This quote is very relevant now.
I saw what’s happening in America these days and it’s saddening. It’s good that people are standing up amidst coronavirus. I just hope looting will stop.
I’m always waiting to your post for me to be inspired in many ways. We should spread love and justice to everyone not hate that will only lead to sufferings.
I can’t breathe…!!!!
Every human is supporting this protect, and Americans are performing their responsibilities very well. Hope this strongest voice against racism will eliminate this discrimination from the globe.
Amen. <3
Thank you for sharing! It is so important to speak out.
Living in Europe we are kind of in distance from it, but it is such an important topic, that can not be taken lightly, thank you for writing about it
I am glad things are moving towards more justice and it makes me sad it has taken so long. What happens to innocent black people is just wrong. THe fact that its even a discussion is gross.
It’s been such a devastating and questionable time. I wasn’t to sleep all that well last week thinking of George Floyd’s death, all the injustice, police brutality and families losing loved ones to all this! We have to stand up and make a change. I know I won’t be resting until justice is brought!
I hear you… same here
hi
the world as we know is slowly getting compressed , none of these topics and fissures are new … they have always exsisted and like there is a peoridical cycle , their eruptions come to the fore accordingly .. looking into the whole weld we see how there is a constant friction il almost every part of the society , its just that some eruptions are more vocal while some ar simmering waiting to erupt
Thank you for sharing. I don’t really have anything to add, I think you made some really great points! Thanks for bringing awareness
I am saddened by the events unfolding in the USA and the violent reactions and repercussions. I hope that saner minds will prevail and healing with meaningful redress to the issues of racism takes place.
Thank you for sharing! Your post is truly inspiring!
thank you for spreading. I really admire you as a person and listening to you discussing the black lives matter movement and its goal here is the most valuable to me. I really wanted you to write this post
Thank you Lyosha, You are always supportive and positive. I really appreciate you
Yes these days are definitely troubling. I hope that world peace could be attained and we’d all be able to sort out our differences..
I wish there were words I could say to help heal the black community in America – but honestly, words fail me. I’ve been living outside the US for a while (with no plans to return) but seeing everything going on back home breaks my heart. I stand firmly with the BLM movement and hope they find justice soon.
Thank you… so many people do around the world now. That is very comforting. Seeing people of all backgrounds and colors peacefully protesting is comforting too.
Another inspiring post. The injustices to POC is saddening. I hope significant changes will happen soon.
Yes, I cannot bring myself to watch it either. The heartache behind it is very clear though. I like the farmer’s story. The message is very accurate and clear.
The recent events were so hard to watch. The looters damaged the message that the peaceful protesters were trying to make. It disgusts me how these events escalated so quickly. I am in Tampa FL and was right in the middle of all the looting and fires. It was scary. I hope the ones who can see past the looting see that a change needs to be made.
I think what happened to George served as an eye opener to the fact that racism is a thing that still exists– especially to those who have been in denial. Oh and Amy Cooper’s action shows just how white privilege works. Recently, we saw a black rapper who was held at gunpoint by the police for withdrawing 200,000 dollars of his own money from the bank. Thanks to the bank manager of Ford who called the police on him. Like because he’s black, he shouldn’t be successful? Can you imagine?! It’s frightening!
But it’s also good to know that people are beginning to recognize what exactly is going on and they are beginning to understand that change is needed.
Yes, we need to come together on these issues, what hurts me will eventually hurt us all… some way or someday. No one is immune when we turn our backs on racism, hatred, and ignorance.
Thank you for spreading awareness.
Racism is not right at all, and it does happen even in a country with similar skin color.
I’ve seen so many posts like this lately. Everyone is involved in one way or snother. We need to stand up and wake up. Thank you for sharing your touching thoughts. I appreciate it.
Till when we keep ignoring marginalized groups and putting their needs, safety and lives down. Till we don’t stand together, we can’t think of a better society . Thank you so much for this post.
I really hope everything will be better in the future and that racism will die, we’re already struggling from a pandemic and then this injustice is making things worse 🙁
This post is very timely. Ive seen a lot who post “black lives matter” but they don’t actually understand what’s going on. I also don’t think that the people posting this should be canceled. I think they should be “educated”. Thanks for sharing your thoughts..
I haven’t been able to watch the video either, I’m ready for better changes. This has been going on for far too long.
Things need to change, and now. If George Floyds death, in full view of the world, doesn’t bring about change, what will???
Thank you so much for sharing and adding the resources. The parable with the farmer was especially poignant and interesting
Yes, I think now is a great time for everyone to step up and do their part to help everyone through this trying time. I am so glad you shared this. I always find insight in your posts.
The world has come to where it supposed to be. That in the last days there be people who will love the world. the news of terror and crisis will appear and its happening now.
That was an interesting story you shared about the farmer. Our perceptions of past events definitely impact what we expect in the future. WE can all help to teach and learn and change the future. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and resources
Thank you for sharing and your awareness. We must do better.
“If you believe in a cause, be willing to stand up for that cause with a million people or by yourself.”
I couldn’t watch the video. It was painful. But now, it’s high time that we unlearn the things we have learned for so long. I realized that these things – discrimination, ill-treatment – based on color, religion has been normalized for so long that it is so hard for so many people to see how inhuman it is! Thanks for sharing this article
Thank you too…
I am not black but I hate racism so much. It’s like jugding or destroying the book before reading it. So barbaric.
Right? Well said…
Thank you for taking the time to motivate us with positive things! It’s hard staying bright during this time, but I’m sure this is very helpful to lighten things up! Great read 🙂
The next generation needs to re-learn the whole concept of equality, only then can we move forward in creating a better world.
I love that they’re talking about disbanding the Minneapolis PD but find it so disconcerting that many don’t understand what that means. There definitely needs to be more education.
I pray and wish that all listen without distinction with outmost compassion. I am in all support with the cause. Peace and love.
Those non images are so powerful. I hope the world will finally recognize that all lives matter.
This has been a really hard couple of weeks. I’m a person of colour too but have been silent and therefore complicit for a long time. Finally speaking up. Change needs to happen.
I’m glad you are speaking up…
I’ve had to take a step away from social media for the past days because everyone is reposting black square instead of actually taking action. It’s so devastating how the world and society is today, it’s as if we are living in the 1800’s…
Posting a black square is a form of taking action…
I loved this blog site, the content is really inspiring and making people realize that doing good will cannot lead to bad.
It is really a world problem. We need to spread more of love than hate, by the time we look at the next person and feel that they are no different from us, then the world will start becoming a better place to live in.
It was the hardest pain than covid-19 panic, racism is not acceptable in any shape and anywhere. Hope one day we will breath in peaceful society of human.
Your sentiments are mine too…
I love the story of the farmer and the two travelers because of how true it is everywhere.
I am white but I have experienced racism before because of my nationality. I have been in offices where people would call other “pakis” or “curry munchers” behind their backs. And I stood silent, even if I knew it was wrong. I was afraid of what standing up in front of people stronger than me would lead to. And that was wrong, I know it now. Each of us has the power to say something, to amply a voice or a message. Together we can make a difference.
Yes, we can and must.
Reading about this in the press really upset me. I just can’t believe that things like this are still happening in this day and age. It’s awful.
Louise x
This is a fantastic article! No excuses…Everyone involved needs to own it! We all have been through enough! 🍕👓🚢
This is such an uplifting read for all these happenings in the world these days. I just can’t believe that these are all about to happen to greatly affect the lives of everyone even the innocent ones. We just have to stay positive at all times and read such contents like this one.
Completely resonate with what you have said here. We belong to the most cruel kind that has ever walked this planet! I hope humanity prevails soon. Being brown skinned we’ve had our fair share of instances too, but the horrors of black lives are really something else and should not be compared with any other #livesmatter campaign.
Yes, it is remarkable how cruel our world can be….
All of us need to stand together in such times.
Important post – the resources are great, thank you. So much about existing systems needs to be dismantled to combat racism. Defunding of the police would be a great step forward. #BlackLivesMatter
I don’t know this yet but I guess now it’s better compared on the previous days. We are now more diversified and open minded. Teaching at home it the best way to start.
Yes I felt the same way. Where is our humanity? This is the year 2020 and we are regressing as a race instead of progressing.
This is such an important topic. It’s getting on my nerves how so many white people get defensive and try to find all these ‘buts’ and deny that it was about color. Why can’t they just admit, yes, it’s a shitty system and we have to change it?
I read several John Grisham novels which mentioned atrocities committed against people of color. What happened to Floyd was heartbreaking and I hope that we could finally bring the changes needed to bring them justice.
What happened to George Floyd is upsetting and I’m glad that the world expressed it’s support specially to our brothers and sisters in the black community. I’m Asian and we too were disgusted with how the Police handled the situation. It’s vile and despicable!
This whole situation is shocking, I cannot believe that in this day and age there is till this hate and violence around…disgusting x
Yeah!! Each of us play a role to stop racism & I learnt much more about blackouttuesday from your sharing as I remembered most of my feeds were with the balck squares that Tuesday
It is a very difficult topic to talk about, thank you for bringing an attention to it
This was a tough one to read because I am still very emotional about the whole thing but I am glad that #blacklivesmatter movement
I haven’t watched the footage either, it does sound very brutal. Hopefully all the posts, including your will make an impact and things will get better soon.
This speaks so much truth and love always win. Be safe! And be welll.
Thank you for writing this and raising voice for it. It’s high time as a society we become more transparent and loving towards each other. And that story resonates so much.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write about this. I haven’t known how to process this or what to do. I’m a white woman and I have been trying to listen and learn. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and tips.I also love the great links you shared on non-violent protests.
We definitely, need more ecduation in this matter and help to make a better future.
Thank you for the resources!
This has been heartbreaking, but coming for a long time. These protests need to happen. The looting and rioting shouldn’t. It takes away from the message that black lives matter movement stands for.
Hope that the families of George Floyd and all the other victims receive justice soon. Will pray for their families.
Your post have certainly inspired me for today, it was just what I needed
I didn’t watch the video and I don’t plan to. George Floyd’s death was one of many but this one hit different because the whole world saw it live. May he Rest In Peace along with the other countless lives lost due to the color of their skin
As a Latina I stand for the black community. I have experienced racism myself and I have made a point out of it to teach my daughters to stand for themselves and for others whose voices are not heard. We need to do better as a society, and the work needs to start at home.
The sad reality is that there are still so many out there who are waiting to still commit more outrageous racist related crimes. So sad, I watched the video and my heart sank.
Sadly… yes. 🙁
Much needed post. World is going through a lot. Reading this is helpful.
This is one of the reasons why i think social media are great during these times. Although it is hard to watch. Social media gets information to people far quicker. It is seen by more people in a few seconds than any other way. If you didn’t not see this coming you must live a sheltered life or have blinders on.
its been a huge eye opening experience for myself and teaching my kids about it too. it’s heartbreaking hearing the stories and i hope to set a great example to my kids to continue to love and treat everyone with respect regardless of color
Its always best policy to remain positive in diverse situations. Thanks for sharing.
This is such a sad situation that keeps being played over and over with many lives at stake. I believe change is happening and will continue to happen. The more we educate and inform ourselves and others the better the world will be.
Things happening around is unexplainable. All the things I see when I turn on the tv on news saddens me. I wish all this end peacefully.
These are amazing thoughts. In the current situation, our values are all the more important.
hi
i share your pain and we all hope that the world comes back from the brink of anarchy that it is heading into
This is a great article. I pray for unity and peace for all but also for people to truly open their eyes and see the injustice that African Americans are being dealt daily and have been dealing with for hundreds of years and join the fight for change.
Great blog. I’ll always hope for world peace and cases like these shouldn’t be forgotten.
We need change YESTERDAY. I am done with this. It’s about time for justice to prevail.
I believe that it is everyone should show support and participate in changing the world. Hope the victims get justice
I’ve seen the video and it is heartbreaking. The officer knew he was being filmed – i can see pride and arrogance in his face. justice for george!
These are such terrible events. But we do have to keep in perspective that most police officers are decent family men and would never do these things. There are always bad people in every field, but we cannot hold it against the good ones.
Great article to read. We are all equal and we need to treat fairly. No matter, or whatever we are.
The reality is really awful nowadays. It seems all people have the same boat on this situation racism,violence, and the rule of law is not fair at this time. No one deserves to be judge because of the skin complexion. I hope we find the real justice. Awesome post!
I couldn’t watch it too. One would hope the bigger lesson we all should have learnt from this pandemic is we are one and same. And the only way we can survive or really move forward is as one.
We just wish that skin color is never an issue in this world that caused all these.prayers to all!
It’s so sick to know we have lived in times where injustice/discrimination has and continues to prevail. Heartbreaking and infuriating to see this vicious cycle continuing over and over again. Don’t know why is it so hard to just live in harmony and not distinguish on color, race etc. About time things change and justice prevails.
Painful to watch these videos but maybe with this people will stop turning a blind eye now. You can’t ignore what’s seen with your own eyes or dismiss it anymore.
Exactly. The smartphone has opened a window that, for decades, was sealed shut with lies and made up tales.
Yes, our world definitely need peace and good vibes at this time of year. The event was heart wrenching.
I didn’t watch George Floyd’s murder, I’ll never watch it, it’s not something my heart would take.
Killing a person over $20 is insane and racists are bringing up his past.
Poor George probably didn’t know the money was fake that’s why he didn’t leave the place.
I agree with you. It’s heart-wrenching… the spewing of hate and excuses by those who choose to deny his humanity are incomprehensible too.
I agree with the quote! It’s really sad that amidst this pandemic crisis, there are ruthless evils still roaming around.
Such an inspiring blog ! Indeed, we should all fight racism and being silent or neutral when it comes to such tragic stories is in itself a crime !!
Keep up the good work and may we all live in peace.
I just followed the link on Dr. Martin L King take on nonviolence protest. This article is so informational I have to share it. Thank you.
Thank you for these resources. I’ve been doing as much reading as possible and am trying to get as involved as possible to effect positive change!
Its high time we have to fight racism . There should be equality for all!
Louder please! To everythings happening in the world now, everyone needs to read this. This will really uplift everyones feeling in these trying times.
A great sharing, yes, absolutely we all have to be in this together for peace & justice. cheers, siennylovesdrawing
Very interesting read. Your blog is always super inspirational!
I managed to watch few seconds of the video, quite sad indeed. Really hope the justice prevails.
I can so relate to this, often when we see injustice somewhere we walk away thinking its not our problem, but his is indeed a very wrong attitude, we should always take a stand and voice our openion! Good read 👍
This is a powerful reminder that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere and that we all have a role to play. And must engage. Thank you for sharing the useful reference and links. And I love the story about the type of people you will meet in a new town story. It is true for almost everything in life. Our expectations will paint our future.
It’s makes my heart break knowing that even though we as a human race have progressed physically and in terms of technology but in terms of been humane and empathetic terms we have gone back in time. Injustice, when will it stop? Thanks for the post, really had me thinking.
This post will always be relevant. It doesn’t matter how much time as passed. This is am important message that other people need to see and read. I hope at least one person has an important take away from this post.
I remember this day. There were so many conflicting feelings about blackout day. I personally saw a lot of people jumping on the bandwagon without really understanding why they were doing it. If you aren’t constantly acting and working toward change, that temporary black square on your social media really doesn’t mean anything.
We can’t ever forget the change that we all need to be in the world. There’s too much injustice out there.
This is so in-depth, thank you. I love how you provided resources so we can really learn more about their history.
This is such a wonderful and inspiring article. I really love your content, it’s all worth sharing!
As a teacher, I feel huge responsibility to teach and educate our children more on our racial history. It makes a huge difference
Indeed, it all begins in our hearts and homes to spread peace joy and justice. Teach our kids and educate ourselves more about our history. We can do so much more!
Very powerful message here. There’s so much injustice and bad stuff that keep happening all around. I just can’t believe people like that exist you know?
Thank you for sharing this.
What was done to George Floyd shouldn’t happen to anybody! Reading your post has brought back a flood of memories and anxiety!
Your content are very inspiring, you are a great article writter.
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. ” One of my favorite quotes of all time!