Social Justice – Tracy’s View

I support long overdue social justice reforms. George Floyd video was traumatic and I am OUTRAGED. I am committed to be an ally for Black/Brown People. I will continue to speak up when ever I witness discrimination, and never tolerate racism. Seeing George’s pain ripped my heart open. I see every black person I love in his face, pleading for his life, including my own daughter.

I have committed to continue learning more. Having an amazing black child has been my biggest opportunity to learn. The more I learn, the more I understand that I need to know more. Race is complicated, with long cruel history in the USA. Now having an understanding of Institutionalized Racism I support leaders and groups working to make change. Both with my time, spending, and donation dollars.

Due to my whiteness I can’t ever fully understand the black experience. I can however decide to be still, listen & learn with an open heart, and not make everything about myself and/or my white experience.

We all have the ability co-create a world that works for ALL. Now is a significant shift in the USA and around the world. With COVID-19 we are all seeking connection, on social media, and news more. Maybe that’s why seeing George Floyd’s death, after decades of similar horrid pain inflicted on black & brown people; it’s made such an impact. I believe it’s an awakening for many non-black people on the injustices inflicted on black & brown people. Something you just can’t deny is WRONG if you are a thinking sane person.

So what have I done?

Attended a protest Saturday in Sacramento, and demonstration at Sacramento capital.

Spoke up at work to support my Black Employee Resource Group and pledged to do the work of an ally.

Found black leadership dedicated to dismantling systemic racism. Attending and LISTENING to black people voice the pain, frustration, anger and rightful distrust of police & white people. Witnessing calls for action & change, doing the hard work of looking at myself, being receptive and understanding.

Joined the Allies for Black Americans https://www.alliesforblackamericans.com/

Following Rev Kevin K Ross (Rev Kev) – Unity of Sacramento Facebook Link

Anita Ross Women for Equality

I’m am willing to be uncomfortable and sit in the realization that I have tolerated hate speech from friends and family. I’ve always spoken up but I didn’t always remove myself from these influences. After having my child I have spoken up more. This last year I removed myself from additional individuals in my family & friends spouting racist ideas, who don’t believe they are prejudice.

My pain is secondary from the pain of black people, however I know losses of friends and family can be a painful process. Being an ally can take many forms. I’m at a stage where I can’t tolerate prejudice in my space. I’m loosing people from my circle BUT I’m gaining so much more in new friendships and alliances. My church family have been amazing!

I’m living my beliefs with a moral compass.

Sharing my personal belief that it’s not black & brown peoples job to educate white people about prejudice. I believe it is each individuals responsibility to learn. Then once you awaken to keep learning. I do believe it’s not prudent to argue with people who are asleep, as they are not ready. My energy is more useful helping others who are just awakening or supporting my black brothers & sisters when they are hurting. Asking what can I do. Listening with both ears and leaning in with love. Letting loved ones, black & brown friends that are hurting know that “I here for you” etc.

Understanding the pain right now for the black community. We often want the injured to answer all our questions when we start waking up. I say start educating yourself and let your friend/co-worker know you’d like to talk when they are up for it. Understand this is a very traumatic time. Give black & brown people the grace of understanding they are hurting right now.

Signed relevant petitions, looking for black businesses for my spending. Having discussions with my amazing daughter, and some of her friends who have called to ask me questions.

I urge you to be part of the solution! My intention here is to share my view. Possibly inspire others to take action.

This can be heavy stuff, what are you feeling peeps?