During these times, it can be hard to feel like you can make a difference. You think, I'm just a kid, what can I do?
It can feel almost powerless not knowing how to show your support.
So here's three things I am doing to support the Black community.
1.Signing Petitions
While petitions may not be effective on the country wide level under the current administration, they are still valued on the local level. A petition can be a great way to show your support alongside your friends and family because they are easy to partake in. You simply insert your first and last name, email address (sometimes phone number). then you can share the petition to other friends or family members, or *donate to the cause.
Good Petitions to sign:
2. Supporting Black Artists, Activists, and Singers on Social Media
Obviously, a lot of us love our social media, and there is a great way to support change while doing what you love. On Instagram, if you like posts from Black artists, activists, ect., you can boost their popularity. On Tik Tok, black creators often get banned for speaking about racism on the app, so by following, liking, and commenting on those posts, it is more likely to boost the algorithm and reach more people. If you chose to dance on Tik Tok, make sure to find the original creator of the dance and credit them, because many are created by black people. On Twitter, reposting is another great way to spread word about what you believe in.
Here's some of my favorite underrated black creators on Tik Tok:
Lisa Asano @speckledbrownie (does pottery)
Alexis Nelson @alexisnikole (forager)
Anty Lit @ant.honyyy (makeup artist)
@consciousleespeaks (activist)
3. Educating Yourself about The Movement
Reading and listening about the Black experience is the most important way to produce change, because how are you gonna fight for something if you don't know the facts? Knowing your history is very important when fighting for change.
Books:
The Hate U Give
On The Come Up
All American Boy
Copper Sun
One Crazy Summer
Zane and The Hurricane
The Mighty Miss Malone
I'm Bud, Not Buddy
Piecing Me Together
Podcast:
CodeSwitch
Make sure you stay safe, stay healthy, and stay fighting for justice!
-Peace
*Quick note about donating!
Donating can also be a great way to help the cause. But you have to make sure the cause is legit! Make sure you do your research before giving out your money and always make sure you get permission from your legal guardian