Naive stands in solidarity with our black friends, colleagues and community against systematic racism #blacklivesmatter. Although we might not be a large platform, we are a platform nonetheless and we have an obligation to speak out against injustice. Silence is complicity.
Although social media is an influential tool that can raise awareness on an issue, it is not enough. This should not be a trend. To help translate online activism to practical changes offline, we have compiled a list of resources you can use to take your activism further.
1. Educate yourself
It is essential that white people and non-black POC take this opportunity to learn more about the systematic racism that still plagues our society today. Educating yourself is the first step in creating any change. Below are some books and Netflix shows that give great insight into how racism impacts black lives and how we can move forward in the future.
BOOKS:
Evicted by MaHhew Desmond
How to be an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi
White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism by Robin DiAngelo
NETFLIX SHOWS:
13th (Ava DuVernay)
American Son (Kenny Leon)
Dear White People (JusEn Simien)
2. Sign Petitions
For those who are not physically able to participate in the protests, take a few minutes to sign these petitions (there are also zip codes provided for those who are international).
For those who can afford it, please consider donating to organizations, memorial funds, and bail funds that support the movement, especially smaller ones that don’t receive as much monetary support from the public. Some examples include:
@blackearthfarms plans to deliver free food to those that have been arrested and bailed during the Oakland uprisings.
@reclaimtheblockis an organization that demands the reduce of investment in the police and an increase in resources that provide real safety such as housing accessible mental health services, etc.
Hereis a fundraiser that supports black owned businesses that have been affected by the protests. Here is also a list of other places you can donate.
4. Educate others
Make an active effort to educate and open up discussions with your friends and family. Letters for Black Lives is a great resource for those who have family who do not speak English. This “open letter project on anti-Blackness” has been translated into over 30 languages including Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin, etc.
5. More ways to help
As linked above, this page is very helpful and is updated regularly.
Here are also some informative Instagram posts that are incredibly helpful:
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