TRENDING

While we are currently living and participating in a revolution, we are also facing a worldwide pandemic: How can you balance the two?

With the risks that come with the spread of COVID-19, it can be scary (or impossible) for you to get out and protest. Whether you are immunocompromised, live with a doctor or other essential worker or are worried about getting and spreading the coronavirus, protesting in groups is not your only opportunity to make a change.

If you can't protest, here are some ways you can get involved with the revolution and the Black Lives Matter movement in your community while safely social distancing. 

Implement antiracism work into your lifestyle

Maybe you want to read a book that helps you unpack internalized racism, like This Book is Anti-Racist, or perhaps you would rather listen to a podcast like NPR's Code Switch to better understand the impact of race on...well, everything, from pop culture to sports and beyond. Regardless, try using Justice in June's curated schedules to find out how to best dedicate time throughout your week to antiracism work. 

Donate

National bail funds, your local Black Lives Matter chapter and Black individuals around the world all need support during the revolution. If you have the means, donate to as many individuals and organizations as you can find; every little bit helps. If you can't donate, spread the word to everyone you know for a wider impact!

Sign petitions

Check out Color of Change. There, you will find ten pages of petitions that need your signature; sign and share as many as you can. This only takes about 30 seconds per petition, which is a simple but very important step to change-making when it comes to arresting those who have killed Black individuals, supporting the families of victims and so much more.

Amplify Black voices

Show support for Black communities by reading books and articles by Black authors, watching TV shows and movies created by Black artists, listening to music and podcasts by Black creators and buying from Black-owned businesses.

Start uncomfortable conversations

Racism and white supremacy are everywhere. They affect your school, your community, your friends and your family. So... why aren't you talking about it? Learn from those around you and take what you have learned (after you complete the steps above!) to educate people who don't understand the impact that being actively antiracist has.

Calling out people close to you for racist behavior can be scary, but it is vital. Equally as important is unpacking your own internal prejudices. We all have them. Embrace the uncomfortable; it's what helps you grow. 

In short, protesting is not the only thing that needs to happen for this movement to succeed. The behind-the-scenes work of donating, signing, amplifying and learning is equally as important. This movement needs you, so do everything you can to put in the work. 

Most importantly, listen to Black individuals in your community when it comes to your activism; if you are speaking over or for Black people, you need to take a step back and reflect on how to become a better ally.

How do you plan to implement antiracism work into your everyday life? 

All GIFs via GIPHY

by Molly Greenwold | 7/1/2020