With so many opinions bouncing around, it’s hard to settle down enough to consider what specific, honorable and effective steps to take that will create safe space for everyone involved.
Careful Consideration is Needed Right Now
Both sides — those with privilege and those without, need to get to neutral and work out what to do next. We have to make room and work together.
Racism and all other acts of domination have power as a common theme.
How power flows: As I get more, you get less.
All humans fight to maintain their position of power. Or they admit defeat and live in a subordinate position.
But, there is another way to live. You can be an ally.
Sharing power sounds scary, but it works to slow your Doomsday Clock.
Being connected, instead of separate, requires significant change in how you relate to people.
Help is Available
I found a great website called BetterAllies.com packed with advice on how to become an ally. Taking on the various roles discussed requires discipline and practice to be effective. All new behaviors take time to bear fruit. Plus, the people around you need time to trust that the changes you’re making will actually stick and make a difference.
To be successful, choose one thing to work on. Don’t overwhelm yourself with good works that you can’t maintain.
- The Muse: Anti-Racism at Work
- The Muse: 7 Examples of What Being an Ally at Work Really Looks Like
- The Muse: What to Do If Your Company Has Been Silent About George Floyd, Protests, and Racism in America
- Better Allies: Everyday actions to create inclusive, engaging workplaces
update: Next Day
I posted this late last night (2AM) before going to bed. I was pleased with this post, but I felt like it wasn’t enough. Something was bothering me. Was it not long enough with just a one page comic?
When I woke up this morning, I remembered that I hadn’t listed a source for the photo of the bearded man wearing a NASA t-shirt. I clicked on his photo and gained access to a treasure trove of images to add to this post.
Amazingly, Brett Sayles was in the middle of posting new images on Pexels and tweeting them on Twitter!
#blacklivesmatter
One Person Taking Action Creates the Next Action
Think of something you can do. Everything little bit helps you to connect. Even if it feels uncomfortable, unfamiliar or like you’re doing it wrong. Make an effort. Reach out! You never know how your action impacts someone else in the world.
Source:
Photo of man with beard wearing NASA shirt by Brett Sayles from Pexels
The game I call Demon Spotting developed over time as I worked through emotional entanglements and confusing break-ups. My misery became code words. Code words became mat drills. Mat drills became winning combinations. And my confusion lifted. Consider this your invitation to play. Clarity is freedom.
Thanks so much for cracking open my brain as a comic. Beautiful work! I know my signs aren’t going to change the world, but it’s cool that someone noticed. 🙂
I found your photo on Pexels when I was searching for images of clocks. Then when I went back to get the attribution info, I saw your other photos. I was so pleased to see that your interests are in line with how I used your image in my comic. Plus, I checked out your blog. I love the photos from the Protest. So cool! Very happy to connect with you online ?
Same! Love your style!
Hey Cheryl, would it be possible to get a high res copy of that so I can get it printed and hung on my wall?
Absolutely! I am delighted to send you a high res copy.
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