George Floyd’s death was the tipping point for so many.
I had sleepless nights, shed many tears. Not solely because of his death. The repeated deaths.
I experienced a powerful internal tug do something. What? How? When?
Then it hit me, I woke up one morning, grabbed a cute outfit, my makeup, prepared to style my hair.
But I decided not to.
If I was going to truly transparent, I wasn’t covering anything up, making anything ‘look better.’
I was going to be real.
If you are trying to understand what it’s like to be black in America, if you are trying to grow, learn, seek knowledge, then, I invite to watch It’s Our Every Day.
That wasn’t enough.
I felt compelled to give people something to listen to, something they could spend some time with over and over.
I shifted to my podcast.
I recorded an episode with the same title to give you a glimpse of what it’s like to raise black sons by a different set of rules.
That wasn’t enough.
I felt compelled to ask my family to join me on the podcast. This was not an easy request. They are private individuals, I knew I was asking a lot. I could see the uneasiness wash across their faces at the very beginning of the request. They did it for me, because I wanted to do it for you.
That wasn’t enough.
If people are truly ready to begin learning, I want to do everything I possibly can to help. Different perspectives came to mind. It’s important for people to hear different perspectives. I began to have conversations with others on my podcast. I am going to share those with you.
Marlena Gross-Taylor of EduGladiators gives her perspective as a black mother.
Micheal Williford inspires us as a white male principal who has been seeking equity for a few years now.
Chey Cheney & Pav Wander of The Staffroom Podcast host a morning radio show on VoiceEd Radio. They are approaching the topic of racial injustice humbly and passionately.
Hans Appel and I approach the topic of antiracism through creating a culture of love and nurturing in the school setting.
Both Chey & Pav and Hans’ episodes will be added when released.
I you are truly seeking knowledge, I encourage you to take some time and soak in stories from the hearts of people who are doing their very best to be a part of change through self-awareness and courage.
It’s Our Every Day Video
Intelligogy The Podcast
It’s Our Every Day – My Family
The Staffroom Podcast
Owning your learning through reading is a powerful way to enlighten oneself on antiracism. The New York Times published an article that includes books that will help you begin to understanding the need for change.
If what your doing isn’t enough, how are you feeling compelled to do more? Please, share in the comments. Let’s keep the conversation going.
Reference:
Harris, Elizabeth A. People Are Marching Against Racism. They’re Also Reading About It. New York Times. June 5, 2020.