While You’re Listening…
Black Lives Matter
The recent events in Minnesota have left me feeling bitter and depressed. I am beyond appalled at the blatant disregard for black people's lives in this country. Systemic racism remains a pervasive issue that continues to kill Black people to this day. It's difficult and frustrating to see how far we have not come as a society. The leadership and law enforcement we trust to protect us kill us on almost a daily basis.
I can't ignore my own anger and grief.
How do I continue mundane daily tasks right now?
But how do I wage war against such widespread and deeply ingrained systems of injustice? I may not be able to control what's happening out in the world but I can control my thoughts and perspective. I can contribute by using my voice to promote a more inclusive and empathetic environment.
"Aren't we all extraordinarily frail and in the end remarkably unimpressive creatures too often of boring repetition and habit? Who will rescue us, if not ourselves? Who will emancipate us, if not ourselves" - Rick Bass, "The Hermit Story"
I don't want to be a dreamer that fantasizes about change but remains stuck and powerless in negative patterns.
For lasting change to occur we all need to put into the effort to grow and understand others. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley said, “ I’m not here to just occupy space, I'm here to create it.” I hear in these quotes a call to action to create a better society. Change takes work. What am I willing to do to change?
Cheltenham Ave was started to build an inclusive community where everyone feels accepted, comfortable, and supported.
Honest conversations allow us to see past our differences and connect with others. That society cannot exist until racial disparities are acknowledged and addressed then real change occurs.
I will continue to work towards a future marked by compassion and inclusion.
My commitment to be better:
I will continue to have honest and open conversations surrounding my experiences.
I will listen without judgment to others that are on their own journeys to self-awareness and self-love.
Most importantly, I will commit to working towards a world where people aren’t judged, alienated, or murder for their appearance.
Looking towards the future
Join the conversation. Comment below how the recent events have made you feel. What do you think we can do to build a more empathetic and inclusive society?
