By: Melissa Catpo, Staff Writer
Recently, there have been more people interested in taking part in activism to fight alongside the Black community against police brutality and racial injustice. We see celebrities posting about this issue, going to protests, and donating to the movement and its victims, but what can the Millbrae community do? Sure, we can post a Black screen on our Instagram page or repost stories to spread awareness, but what can occur off of social media — away from the public eye — to make an even bigger impact?
The first step is to identify and acknowledge your privilege. Keep in mind that having racial privilege isn’t something to be ashamed of, as you have no control over it. Privilege comes in many different forms, such as race, wealth, and access to education and healthcare. Think about what you can do with your privilege and say that others cannot. You may notice that even in your everyday routine, you may use items catered to a specific race. Band-aids, hair products, movies, and even some stores cater to the physical traits of white people. These examples are only the tip of the iceberg, as racial privilege can even be found in America’s criminal justice system and law enforcement. For example, Black people are up to 6 times more likely to get killed as a result of unprovoked police brutality. (“Black People are up to 6 times more likely to be killed by police, Harvard study says”)
To educate yourself further, you can also read literature, watch movies, and hear speeches about the racial injustices Black people are facing. Some examples of informative films and movies are: 12 Years a Slave, Seven Seconds, Selma, and 13th. Examples of educational books about race are: Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria, The End of Policing, The Hate U Give (also a movie), and So You Want to Talk About Race.
Now that you know what privilege is, use it to stand up for and educate others. If you hear someone saying racial slurs or racist comments, don’t be afraid to call them out. Be an upstander, not a bystander, by intervening and respectfully explaining the great measures of hurtfulness that are translated through their comments. This may be difficult at times where the person making racist or disrespectful comments is someone you love or care about, but it’s essential to remember your values and be upfront and honest with them about their racist behavior. Explain the losses, pains, and injustices of the Black community. Educate your friends and family on the mistreatment, abuse, and discrimination African Americans have endured for centuries. If the person refuses to change their actions or just brushes it off, it may be time to reevaluate if they are beneficial to you and your growth as a person. Reconsider if you want to surround yourself with people with racist beliefs and ideas. Sometimes, you may even have to end or distance friendships or relationships. Whenever you’re in a conversation about race, make sure to speak up for those who are often unheard and remember that no one gets a “pass” to be racist.
If you are allowed to, take part in a peaceful protest. Take time out of your day to sign petitions and make donations in support of the Black Lives Matter Movement. Another concept to be aware of is stereotypes or racial assumptions. It is easy to believe stereotypes heard from the media, peers, or even your family. Acknowledge how harmful these stereotypes are to people of color and educate yourself on the truth of these hurtful assumptions that our society has become far too accustomed to believing. Lastly, do not support people or corporations that perpetuate racism or are against social justice for Black people. For example, buy from Lowe’s rather than Home Depot. Instead of shopping at Brandy Melville, shop at Hollister, Shop Israella, or Top Shop.
Regardless of who you are, you are capable of making a difference in our community by standing up against racism as often as possible. One of my favorite quotes that demonstrates this is by Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” We live in a tragic reality that some have more power than others solely based on the color of their skin, which is why it is crucial to defend those who go unheard and continue to fight for change, no matter how long it takes.
