Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
samedi 6 juin 2020
Michael Strahan on Being a Black Man in America: "The Color of Your Skin Makes People Scared of You"
In a moving video shared to his Instagram on Thursday, Good Morning America host Michael Strahan expressed his anger in the wake of the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor. Michael spoke about his frustration from seeing no resolution or justice after having the same conversation over and over again about police brutality and racial inequality.
"It's very hard to understand as a Black man why the color of your skin makes people scared of you," the former NFL player said. "As a Black man in this country - a country that's supposed to be free, a country that's supposed to have your back, supposed to be your country . . . but not have the freedoms you're fighting for others to have, not having the respect you're fighting for others to have, but expected to give respect is the hardest part."
"What a way to meet me, by pulling me over for doing nothing."
Michael shared his own experience with the police, revealing that he was pulled over for no reason while driving just a week and a half prior. However, once the officer looked into the car and saw that it was Michael driving, he changed his tune. "He goes, 'Oh, Michael, I'm such a big fan. When I was a kid, I'd go trick-or-treating just to come by your house hoping to meet you," Michael explained. "What a way to meet me, by pulling me over for doing nothing." He emphasized that this was one of many times he had been noticed by officers in the past simply because of the color of his skin.
While Michael expressed his anger, he also said he was holding on to hope. He urged his followers to stop depending on others to change for them and instead focus on making changes themselves. "I hope my kids can grow up and be in a place that's better than the place we're in right now," he said. Watch the powerful video in full above, and find out what you can do to fight for racial justice and the end to police brutality.
I Attended a Hawaiian Paddle Out Ceremony for BLM - and it was Incredibly Moving
As I processed the devastating and brutal murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery, which sent waves of heartbreak and public outcry out across the world, I found myself wondering how Maui would respond. The island where I live is filled with passionate people who care to make a change, but I'll be the first to admit: it's easy to tune out to the problems of the world when you live in a tropical paradise, surrounded by so many ways to escape. As a multiracial Black woman who has mourned and protested for the Black lives lost to police brutality over the years, I was eager to get involved in any local actions. So when a friend shared information about a paddle out ceremony at Launiupoko - a popular surf break on Maui's west side - to honor the Black lives lost in the recent months, I knew I had to participate.
While I was more than ready to put some kind of action to my emotions, I was completely unprepared for the vast number of people who showed up at 4:30 in the afternoon on Sunday, May 31 to support the Black Lives Matter movement. To see so many members of my community gathered for a cause I care so deeply about was enough to bring tears to my eyes. In total, over 300 people participated, with 256 boards in the water and at least 50 more people showing their support from shore with handmade signs. (Since then, several other ceremonies to commemorate Black lives have been organized around Hawaii.)
Photo courtesy Phil Sobolev
The woman who organized the event, Bailey Rebecca Roberts, took the time to speak with me and shared her personal experience with paddle outs as a born-and-raised Maui girl. "People join together in a gathering like that to celebrate the life of someone who's passed. Share stories, share chants, share memories, spread ashes, and spread flowers." She also went on to explain how paddle outs have served as a powerful form of protest throughout Hawaii's history. This gathering for BLM felt like a mix of both, and it was one of the most moving things I've ever been a part of.
Photo courtesy Bailey Rebecca Roberts
Roberts and I went on to have one of the most soul-feeding discussions I've had in quite some time, where we shared our contrasting upbringings and their consequential experiences - me, as one of the few non-white people in my school, and Roberts as one of the few white people in hers. Roberts spoke candidly about her naivety about the, "very real and painful dynamics of race," and the discomfort she's faced in her learning process. Speaking on the words she shared at the gathering, Roberts was able to admit, "this is uncomfortable for me, but my discomfort is not what's important right now." Roberts hope that the main takeaway from the day for people in attendance was to realize it goes beyond just the paddle out."Look, the paddle out is nice. We're together, we feel good now, and we all of a sudden feel woken up," she said. "Now let's have a conversation about real integrated steps that we can take in our everyday lives to enact actual change."
Photo courtesy Roderick Nathan, captured by Conan Gentil
I also had the pleasure of chatting with Ari Romer, a new face I met at the paddle out, who is a Black man that moved to Maui from Seattle spontaneously in February. Romer shared that he was shocked by the number of people who came out in solidarity.
"I'm very surprised and happy that there was a response here in Hawaii, because in my mind I'm thinking, 'Everyone here has their own problems.' The rest of the world is joining in out of solidarity, and Hawaii did the same exact thing - but in the Hawaiian fashion, which is 100% peaceful and harmonious," said Romer. He added that the non-existent police presence at the event was reassuring to see - though he did find it upsetting to see so many non-Black people raising the Black power fist. But overall, Romer told me, he felt the spirit of aloha from the community out in the water as flowers were released and a moment of silence was held, and that during his drive home, he reflected on how great it was to see so many people who came out with good vibes to share.
Joining hands in a circle of 255 other souls gave me an opportunity to say a prayer, to mourn, and most importantly, to celebrate the lives of those lost for the people they were and for the lives that they led before this tragedy happened to them. The paddle out was a way for me to feel seen by my community, to witness the compassion of the people around me, and to feel a sense of belonging I didn't know I was seeking. To honor these victims of racism and police brutality as people who lived incredible lives was something I had not been able to fully do until the moment I paddled through a sea of flowers sent adrift with aloha in its purest form.
I Attended a Hawaiian Paddle Out Ceremony for BLM - and it was Incredibly Moving
As I processed the devastating and brutal murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery, which sent waves of heartbreak and public outcry out across the world, I found myself wondering how Maui would respond. The island where I live is filled with passionate people who care to make a change, but I'll be the first to admit: it's easy to tune out to the problems of the world when you live in a tropical paradise, surrounded by so many ways to escape. As a multiracial Black woman who has mourned and protested for the Black lives lost to police brutality over the years, I was eager to get involved in any local actions. So when a friend shared information about a paddle out ceremony at Launiupoko - a popular surf break on Maui's west side - to honor the Black lives lost in the recent months, I knew I had to participate.
While I was more than ready to put some kind of action to my emotions, I was completely unprepared for the vast number of people who showed up at 4:30 in the afternoon on Sunday, May 31 to support the Black Lives Matter movement. To see so many members of my community gathered for a cause I care so deeply about was enough to bring tears to my eyes. In total, over 300 people participated, with 256 boards in the water and at least 50 more people showing their support from shore with handmade signs. (Since then, several other ceremonies to commemorate Black lives have been organized around Hawaii.)
Photo courtesy Phil Sobolev
The woman who organized the event, Bailey Rebecca Roberts, took the time to speak with me and shared her personal experience with paddle outs as a born-and-raised Maui girl. "People join together in a gathering like that to celebrate the life of someone who's passed. Share stories, share chants, share memories, spread ashes, and spread flowers." She also went on to explain how paddle outs have served as a powerful form of protest throughout Hawaii's history. This gathering for BLM felt like a mix of both, and it was one of the most moving things I've ever been a part of.
Photo courtesy Bailey Rebecca Roberts
Roberts and I went on to have one of the most soul-feeding discussions I've had in quite some time, where we shared our contrasting upbringings and their consequential experiences - me, as one of the few non-white people in my school, and Roberts as one of the few white people in hers. Roberts spoke candidly about her naivety about the, "very real and painful dynamics of race," and the discomfort she's faced in her learning process. Speaking on the words she shared at the gathering, Roberts was able to admit, "this is uncomfortable for me, but my discomfort is not what's important right now." Roberts hope that the main takeaway from the day for people in attendance was to realize it goes beyond just the paddle out."Look, the paddle out is nice. We're together, we feel good now, and we all of a sudden feel woken up," she said. "Now let's have a conversation about real integrated steps that we can take in our everyday lives to enact actual change."
Photo courtesy Roderick Nathan, captured by Conan Gentil
I also had the pleasure of chatting with Ari Romer, a new face I met at the paddle out, who is a Black man that moved to Maui from Seattle spontaneously in February. Romer shared that he was shocked by the number of people who came out in solidarity.
"I'm very surprised and happy that there was a response here in Hawaii, because in my mind I'm thinking, 'Everyone here has their own problems.' The rest of the world is joining in out of solidarity, and Hawaii did the same exact thing - but in the Hawaiian fashion, which is 100% peaceful and harmonious," said Romer. He added that the non-existent police presence at the event was reassuring to see - though he did find it upsetting to see so many non-Black people raising the Black power fist. But overall, Romer told me, he felt the spirit of aloha from the community out in the water as flowers were released and a moment of silence was held, and that during his drive home, he reflected on how great it was to see so many people who came out with good vibes to share.
Joining hands in a circle of 255 other souls gave me an opportunity to say a prayer, to mourn, and most importantly, to celebrate the lives of those lost for the people they were and for the lives that they led before this tragedy happened to them. The paddle out was a way for me to feel seen by my community, to witness the compassion of the people around me, and to feel a sense of belonging I didn't know I was seeking. To honor these victims of racism and police brutality as people who lived incredible lives was something I had not been able to fully do until the moment I paddled through a sea of flowers sent adrift with aloha in its purest form.
6 Ways to Be a Valuable Ally at a Black Lives Matter Protest
As a white or non-Black ally to the Black Lives Matter movement, there are many ways to put in valuable work and make a difference: speaking out on social media platforms, making donations, regularly shopping at Black-owned businesses, voting for representatives who support the movement, and attending Black Lives Matter protests in your area – just for a start. All of these actions require thought, research, follow-through, and consistency; but if you're an ally planning to take part in marches and demonstrations, it's especially essential that you're aware of and careful about your actions. At large demonstrations, including those currently taking place nationwide to protest the killing of George Floyd, there is often major police presence. As an ally, your actions can contribute to making the area safer or more dangerous for the Black people in attendance.
Ahead, you'll find a few specific ways you can be a more valuable ally at protests. (Reminder: if you're unable to attend in-person, there are important ways you can help from home. Start here.)
Attend Protests Organized By Black-Led Organizations
Do your research beforehand. As digital strategist and anti-racism trainer Leslie Mac told Mashable, it's important to make sure the rally is organized by a Black-led group that's actively doing anti-racism work in your area. Demonstrations may be listed in local news media, on social media, or on the organizations' websites.
Listen to Direction
"When white people show up to protests for the Movement for Black Lives, they are our guests," said Ben O'Keefe, an activist and former senior aide to Elizabeth Warren, in an interview with Vox. "They are new for this. This might be exciting to them now, but this has been something that we have been living for generations and fighting for generations. So, you are showing up, and we're happy to have you, you are our guests."
That means that, as an ally at a protest, it's important to listen to those around you and follow direction from leaders, who will clearly lay out the goals for the protest and expectations for allies.
Put Your Privilege to Use
As an ally, be aware of your privilege and be prepared to use it at protests. For white people, O'Keefe explained, this may mean physically coming between Black protesters and the police for protection. You can also use any financial privilege you have to provide essential supplies at protests, such as water bottles, face masks, snacks, hand sanitizer, and first aid. Mac said one of the most useful things you can do as an ally is to provide jail support: waiting while protesters are detained and helping them with food, transportation, and legal advice upon release.
Document the Protest - With Caution
On-the-ground footage of protests is a powerful tool. Recording or taking pictures at a demonstration provides a different perspective than the one often shown by news media, which sometimes cannot or will not show what protests truly look like. Documenting demonstrations also holds police accountable.
One important caveat: avoid taking photos or filming peoples' uncovered faces or shoes. These are some of the easiest ways to identify people and that could pose a danger for some, said Allissa Richardson, PhD, a USC journalism professor who studies how marginalized communities use social media. In an interview with Mashable, she recommended blurring out faces or shoes if you've caught them on camera.
Continue the Work After the Protest
The work of overcoming racial injustice doesn't end when the protest does. As an ally, continue to donate money and time to organizations that work for racial equality and against police brutality (here's a list of orgs to start with); use your platform to amplify those causes and spread awareness of injustice when it happens; vote for local, state, and nationwide representatives who support the movement; and talk to family and friends about Black Lives Matter, even when those conversations are uncomfortable. Here are five actionable ways to fight racial injustice now and moving forward.
What Not to Do as an Ally at a Black Lives Matter Protest
If you're an ally at a Black Lives Matter protest, do not:
- Vandalize property or antagonize police. You're putting yourself as well as the Black people around you at risk, and they are likely to face harsher consequences than you for your actions.
- Co-opt Black experiences. In an interview with The Washington Post, Simon Balto, PhD, a professor of history and African American studies at the University of Iowa, noted that "a white person saying 'I can't breathe' at a protest when they are at essentially zero risk of ever enduring a police chokehold is not a particularly meaningful act." Rather, "it is a centering of the white self that at least partly dislodges focus from the matter at hand - black safety from the police." As an ally, chanting or creating signs with these kind of slogans mimics the pain and death of Black people while drawing attention away from their crisis. While you can never live the reality of a Black person in America, you can work to amplify their voices and change the system alongside them.
- Make it about yourself. These protests are about creating change and addressing the systemic racism against Black people in American society; they're not the place to talk about your personal feelings or experiences as a white person. Those feelings are valid, but in this moment and especially at a protest, your job is to put your own fears and discomfort aside, show up, listen, learn, and do what you can to help.
Celebrate Pride by Immersing Yourself in These 27 Books by LGBTQ+ Authors
There are plenty of ways to support and celebrate Pride this year, and one of them is to dive into LGBTQ+ stories. Throughout the month and beyond, check out LGBTQ+ films, TV shows, and moving essays that spotlight individual identities. And as you're looking for new books to add to your collection, keep reading to learn more about some books across genres with LGBTQ+ characters written by LGBTQ+ authors.
Real to the People Launches Free Mental Health Services for Black Women, People of Color, and Allies
Real, a membership-based organization for therapy and mental health services, launched Real to the People in March 2020 to offer free therapy services to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, in the aftermath of the killings of Black Americans George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and Nina Pop, among others, Real to the People is offering free group support sessions via large digital events that hold up to 400 people. These sessions are specifically for "Black womxn, people of color, and allies."
The group sessions are led by Real therapists Luisa Bonifacio and Naiyah Warren, and each is an hour long. The sessions will take place four times a week "for people to grieve, feel, connect, and process what they're going through," according to a press release. Taking care of your mental health is imperative, and Real to the People aims to make mental health care more accessible. The sessions start on June 5 and run for four weeks. Find the full schedule here, and visit the website to sign up and get more info. The sessions are as follows:
Free Group Therapy for Black Womxn: Friday, June 5, Friday, June 12, Friday June 19, Friday, June 26, 6-7 p.m. ET.
Real x Unplug Collective: Free Group Therapy for Young Black Womxn + Gender-Expansive People: Monday, June 8, Monday, June 15, Monday, June 22, Monday, June 29 2-3 p.m. ET.
Growth and Allyship: Free Group Therapy for Allies: Tuesday, June 9, Tuesday, June 16, Tuesday, Tuesday, June 23, Tuesday, June 30, 6-7 p.m. ET
Free Group Therapy for People of Color: Wednesday, June 10, Wednesday, June 17, Wednesday, June 24, Wednesday, July 1, 6-7 p.m. ET.
Free digital group sessions are a great way to tend to your mental health, especially with many people still under shelter-in-place orders amid the pandemic. But if you feel like you need other help or resources, check out this guide on "44 Mental Health Resources for Black People Trying to Survive in This Country" from SELF, and this guide on signing up for teletherapy during the coronavirus. Also, hotlines, while not a form of teletherapy, can also be useful; the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (1-240-485-1001) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (1-800-950-6264) have resources available. Another important hotline is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Call 1-800-273-8255 or text 741741 for 24-hour crisis support.
Celebrate Pride by Immersing Yourself in These 27 Books by LGBTQ+ Authors
There are plenty of ways to support and celebrate Pride this year, and one of them is to dive into LGBTQ+ stories. Throughout the month and beyond, check out LGBTQ+ films, TV shows, and moving essays that spotlight individual identities. And as you're looking for new books to add to your collection, keep reading to learn more about some books across genres with LGBTQ+ characters written by LGBTQ+ authors.
6 Ways to Be a Valuable Ally at a Black Lives Matter Protest
As a white or non-Black ally to the Black Lives Matter movement, there are many ways to put in valuable work and make a difference: speaking out on social media platforms, making donations, regularly shopping at Black-owned businesses, voting for representatives who support the movement, and attending Black Lives Matter protests in your area – just for a start. All of these actions require thought, research, follow-through, and consistency; but if you're an ally planning to take part in marches and demonstrations, it's especially essential that you're aware of and careful about your actions. At large demonstrations, including those currently taking place nationwide to protest the killing of George Floyd, there is often major police presence. As an ally, your actions can contribute to making the area safer or more dangerous for the Black people in attendance.
Ahead, you'll find a few specific ways you can be a more valuable ally at protests. (Reminder: if you're unable to attend in-person, there are important ways you can help from home. Start here.)
Attend Protests Organized By Black-Led Organizations
Do your research beforehand. As digital strategist and anti-racism trainer Leslie Mac told Mashable, it's important to make sure the rally is organized by a Black-led group that's actively doing anti-racism work in your area. Demonstrations may be listed in local news media, on social media, or on the organizations' websites.
Listen to Direction
"When white people show up to protests for the Movement for Black Lives, they are our guests," said Ben O'Keefe, an activist and former senior aide to Elizabeth Warren, in an interview with Vox. "They are new for this. This might be exciting to them now, but this has been something that we have been living for generations and fighting for generations. So, you are showing up, and we're happy to have you, you are our guests."
That means that, as an ally at a protest, it's important to listen to those around you and follow direction from leaders, who will clearly lay out the goals for the protest and expectations for allies.
Put Your Privilege to Use
As an ally, be aware of your privilege and be prepared to use it at protests. For white people, O'Keefe explained, this may mean physically coming between Black protesters and the police for protection. You can also use any financial privilege you have to provide essential supplies at protests, such as water bottles, face masks, snacks, hand sanitizer, and first aid. Mac said one of the most useful things you can do as an ally is to provide jail support: waiting while protesters are detained and helping them with food, transportation, and legal advice upon release.
Document the Protest - With Caution
On-the-ground footage of protests is a powerful tool. Recording or taking pictures at a demonstration provides a different perspective than the one often shown by news media, which sometimes cannot or will not show what protests truly look like. Documenting demonstrations also holds police accountable.
One important caveat: avoid taking photos or filming peoples' uncovered faces or shoes. These are some of the easiest ways to identify people and that could pose a danger for some, said Allissa Richardson, PhD, a USC journalism professor who studies how marginalized communities use social media. In an interview with Mashable, she recommended blurring out faces or shoes if you've caught them on camera.
Continue the Work After the Protest
The work of overcoming racial injustice doesn't end when the protest does. As an ally, continue to donate money and time to organizations that work for racial equality and against police brutality (here's a list of orgs to start with); use your platform to amplify those causes and spread awareness of injustice when it happens; vote for local, state, and nationwide representatives who support the movement; and talk to family and friends about Black Lives Matter, even when those conversations are uncomfortable. Here are five actionable ways to fight racial injustice now and moving forward.
What Not to Do as an Ally at a Black Lives Matter Protest
If you're an ally at a Black Lives Matter protest, do not:
- Vandalize property or antagonize police. You're putting yourself as well as the Black people around you at risk, and they are likely to face harsher consequences than you for your actions.
- Co-opt Black experiences. In an interview with The Washington Post, Simon Balto, PhD, a professor of history and African American studies at the University of Iowa, noted that "a white person saying 'I can't breathe' at a protest when they are at essentially zero risk of ever enduring a police chokehold is not a particularly meaningful act." Rather, "it is a centering of the white self that at least partly dislodges focus from the matter at hand - black safety from the police." As an ally, chanting or creating signs with these kind of slogans mimics the pain and death of Black people while drawing attention away from their crisis. While you can never live the reality of a Black person in America, you can work to amplify their voices and change the system alongside them.
- Make it about yourself. These protests are about creating change and addressing the systemic racism against Black people in American society; they're not the place to talk about your personal feelings or experiences as a white person. Those feelings are valid, but in this moment and especially at a protest, your job is to put your own fears and discomfort aside, show up, listen, learn, and do what you can to help.
This Video Shares 5 Tips Explaining How to Be a Better Ally to the Black Community
As powerful protests against police brutality continue to take over the streets of major cities across the country, we should all be doing our part to stay informed and take action to address systems of injustice. In a reminder that confronting racism and white privilege is not a new problem, comedian and activist Franchesca Ramsey resurfaced a video she created in 2014 sharing five tips for becoming a better ally to the Black community. Her video is included in writer and academic Rachel Cargle's 30-Day #DoTheWork course, and Franchesca reshared the video on Instagram this week.
"Lots of people are grappling with how to talk about what's happening in our country, commit to being actively anti-racist & support #BlackLivesMatter, and Rachel's free course is a great place to start," Ramsey said in her caption.
"Imagine your friend is building a house and they ask you to help but you've never built a house before," Ramsey said in the video. "So it would probably be a good idea for you to put on some protective gear and listen to the person in charge; otherwise, someone's gonna get seriously hurt. It's the exact same idea when it comes to being an ally . . . Saying you're an ally is not enough. You've gotta do the work." She then went on to share her five tips, including helping white people understand their own white privilege and how to move forward and apologize if they make a mistake.
In the video description box on her YouTube video, Ramsey also added several resources to help those who want to learn more about how to be a good ally, including lessons about privilege, how to be a better friend, and resources on how to embrace white antiracism. "I'm flattered and proud that it continues to speak to so many," Ramsey added. Watch the full video here.
6 Ways to Be a Valuable Ally at a Black Lives Matter Protest
As a white or non-Black ally to the Black Lives Matter movement, there are many ways to put in valuable work and make a difference: speaking out on social media platforms, making donations, regularly shopping at Black-owned businesses, voting for representatives who support the movement, and attending Black Lives Matter protests in your area – just for a start. All of these actions require thought, research, follow-through, and consistency; but if you're an ally planning to take part in marches and demonstrations, it's especially essential that you're aware of and careful about your actions. At large demonstrations, including those currently taking place nationwide to protest the killing of George Floyd, there is often major police presence. As an ally, your actions can contribute to making the area safer or more dangerous for the Black people in attendance.
Ahead, you'll find a few specific ways you can be a more valuable ally at protests. (Reminder: if you're unable to attend in-person, there are important ways you can help from home. Start here.)
Attend Protests Organized By Black-Led Organizations
Do your research beforehand. As digital strategist and anti-racism trainer Leslie Mac told Mashable, it's important to make sure the rally is organized by a Black-led group that's actively doing anti-racism work in your area. Demonstrations may be listed in local news media, on social media, or on the organizations' websites.
Listen to Direction
"When white people show up to protests for the Movement for Black Lives, they are our guests," said Ben O'Keefe, an activist and former senior aide to Elizabeth Warren, in an interview with Vox. "They are new for this. This might be exciting to them now, but this has been something that we have been living for generations and fighting for generations. So, you are showing up, and we're happy to have you, you are our guests."
That means that, as an ally at a protest, it's important to listen to those around you and follow direction from leaders, who will clearly lay out the goals for the protest and expectations for allies.
Put Your Privilege to Use
As an ally, be aware of your privilege and be prepared to use it at protests. For white people, O'Keefe explained, this may mean physically coming between Black protesters and the police for protection. You can also use any financial privilege you have to provide essential supplies at protests, such as water bottles, face masks, snacks, hand sanitizer, and first aid. Mac said one of the most useful things you can do as an ally is to provide jail support: waiting while protesters are detained and helping them with food, transportation, and legal advice upon release.
Document the Protest - With Caution
On-the-ground footage of protests is a powerful tool. Recording or taking pictures at a demonstration provides a different perspective than the one often shown by news media, which sometimes cannot or will not show what protests truly look like. Documenting demonstrations also holds police accountable.
One important caveat: avoid taking photos or filming peoples' uncovered faces or shoes. These are some of the easiest ways to identify people and that could pose a danger for some, said Allissa Richardson, PhD, a USC journalism professor who studies how marginalized communities use social media. In an interview with Mashable, she recommended blurring out faces or shoes if you've caught them on camera.
Continue the Work After the Protest
The work of overcoming racial injustice doesn't end when the protest does. As an ally, continue to donate money and time to organizations that work for racial equality and against police brutality (here's a list of orgs to start with); use your platform to amplify those causes and spread awareness of injustice when it happens; vote for local, state, and nationwide representatives who support the movement; and talk to family and friends about Black Lives Matter, even when those conversations are uncomfortable. Here are five actionable ways to fight racial injustice now and moving forward.
What Not to Do as an Ally at a Black Lives Matter Protest
If you're an ally at a Black Lives Matter protest, do not:
- Vandalize property or antagonize police. You're putting yourself as well as the Black people around you at risk, and they are likely to face harsher consequences than you for your actions.
- Co-opt Black experiences. In an interview with The Washington Post, Simon Balto, PhD, a professor of history and African American studies at the University of Iowa, noted that "a white person saying 'I can't breathe' at a protest when they are at essentially zero risk of ever enduring a police chokehold is not a particularly meaningful act." Rather, "it is a centering of the white self that at least partly dislodges focus from the matter at hand - black safety from the police." As an ally, chanting or creating signs with these kind of slogans mimics the pain and death of Black people while drawing attention away from their crisis. While you can never live the reality of a Black person in America, you can work to amplify their voices and change the system alongside them.
- Make it about yourself. These protests are about creating change and addressing the systemic racism against Black people in American society; they're not the place to talk about your personal feelings or experiences as a white person. Those feelings are valid, but in this moment and especially at a protest, your job is to put your own fears and discomfort aside, show up, listen, learn, and do what you can to help.
This Video Shares 5 Tips Explaining How to Be a Better Ally to the Black Community
As powerful protests against police brutality continue to take over the streets of major cities across the country, we should all be doing our part to stay informed and take action to address systems of injustice. In a reminder that confronting racism and white privilege is not a new problem, comedian and activist Franchesca Ramsey resurfaced a video she created in 2014 sharing five tips for becoming a better ally to the Black community. Her video is included in writer and academic Rachel Cargle's 30-Day #DoTheWork course, and Franchesca reshared the video on Instagram this week.
"Lots of people are grappling with how to talk about what's happening in our country, commit to being actively anti-racist & support #BlackLivesMatter, and Rachel's free course is a great place to start," Ramsey said in her caption.
"Imagine your friend is building a house and they ask you to help but you've never built a house before," Ramsey said in the video. "So it would probably be a good idea for you to put on some protective gear and listen to the person in charge; otherwise, someone's gonna get seriously hurt. It's the exact same idea when it comes to being an ally . . . Saying you're an ally is not enough. You've gotta do the work." She then went on to share her five tips, including helping white people understand their own white privilege and how to move forward and apologize if they make a mistake.
In the video description box on her YouTube video, Ramsey also added several resources to help those who want to learn more about how to be a good ally, including lessons about privilege, how to be a better friend, and resources on how to embrace white antiracism. "I'm flattered and proud that it continues to speak to so many," Ramsey added. Watch the full video here.
Real to the People Launches Free Mental Health Services for Black Women, People of Color, and Allies
Real, a membership-based organization for therapy and mental health services, launched Real to the People in March 2020 to offer free therapy services to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, in the aftermath of the killings of Black Americans George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and Nina Pop, among others, Real to the People is offering free group support sessions via large digital events that hold up to 400 people. These sessions are specifically for "Black womxn, people of color, and allies."
The group sessions are led by Real therapists Luisa Bonifacio and Naiyah Warren, and each is an hour long. The sessions will take place four times a week "for people to grieve, feel, connect, and process what they're going through," according to a press release. Taking care of your mental health is imperative, and Real to the People aims to make mental health care more accessible. The sessions start on June 5 and run for four weeks. Find the full schedule here, and visit the website to sign up and get more info. The sessions are as follows:
Free Group Therapy for Black Womxn: Friday, June 5, Friday, June 12, Friday June 19, Friday, June 26, 6-7 p.m. ET.
Real x Unplug Collective: Free Group Therapy for Young Black Womxn + Gender-Expansive People: Monday, June 8, Monday, June 15, Monday, June 22, Monday, June 29 2-3 p.m. ET.
Growth and Allyship: Free Group Therapy for Allies: Tuesday, June 9, Tuesday, June 16, Tuesday, Tuesday, June 23, Tuesday, June 30, 6-7 p.m. ET
Free Group Therapy for People of Color: Wednesday, June 10, Wednesday, June 17, Wednesday, June 24, Wednesday, July 1, 6-7 p.m. ET.
Free digital group sessions are a great way to tend to your mental health, especially with many people still under shelter-in-place orders amid the pandemic. But if you feel like you need other help or resources, check out this guide on "44 Mental Health Resources for Black People Trying to Survive in This Country" from SELF, and this guide on signing up for teletherapy during the coronavirus. Also, hotlines, while not a form of teletherapy, can also be useful; the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (1-240-485-1001) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (1-800-950-6264) have resources available. Another important hotline is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Call 1-800-273-8255 or text 741741 for 24-hour crisis support.
This Video Shares 5 Tips Explaining How to Be a Better Ally to the Black Community
As powerful protests against police brutality continue to take over the streets of major cities across the country, we should all be doing our part to stay informed and take action to address systems of injustice. In a reminder that confronting racism and white privilege is not a new problem, comedian and activist Franchesca Ramsey resurfaced a video she created in 2014 sharing five tips for becoming a better ally to the Black community. Her video is included in writer and academic Rachel Cargle's 30-Day #DoTheWork course, and Franchesca reshared the video on Instagram this week.
"Lots of people are grappling with how to talk about what's happening in our country, commit to being actively anti-racist & support #BlackLivesMatter, and Rachel's free course is a great place to start," Ramsey said in her caption.
"Imagine your friend is building a house and they ask you to help but you've never built a house before," Ramsey said in the video. "So it would probably be a good idea for you to put on some protective gear and listen to the person in charge; otherwise, someone's gonna get seriously hurt. It's the exact same idea when it comes to being an ally . . . Saying you're an ally is not enough. You've gotta do the work." She then went on to share her five tips, including helping white people understand their own white privilege and how to move forward and apologize if they make a mistake.
In the video description box on her YouTube video, Ramsey also added several resources to help those who want to learn more about how to be a good ally, including lessons about privilege, how to be a better friend, and resources on how to embrace white antiracism. "I'm flattered and proud that it continues to speak to so many," Ramsey added. Watch the full video here.
31 Inspiring Quotes From Queer Eye Season 5 For When You Need That Extra Motivation
The Queer Eye gang is back for season five, and this time they're in the city of Philadelphia. While the Fab Five - Antoni Porowski, Bobby Berk, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, and Tan France - are inspiring those on screen, each episode (with the exception of episode six, "DJ's on Repeat") is intercut with famous quotes to inspire viewers. From Martin Luther King Jr. to Kareem Abdul Jabbar, not only are the quotes uplifting, but they're perfectly paired with the message of each episode. And just in case you were wondering, yes, Queer Eye has already been renewed for season six.
Breonna Taylor's Mom Honors Her Daughter: "People Need to Know That Breonna Taylor Mattered"
Remembering Breonna Taylor’s life and legacy on her 27th birthday and the mission to get more people to #SayHerName. @debrobertsabc has more. https://t.co/i9rZzYvW4s pic.twitter.com/iDeWQihrap
- Good Morning America (@GMA) June 5, 2020
On Friday, Breonna Taylor's mother, Tamika Palmer, honored her daughter's memory on what would've been Breonna's birthday. On March 13, Breonna, a young Black woman, was fatally shot and killed by three Louisville officers who used a battering ram to break down the door of her apartment. Three months later, the officers involved have yet to be charged or arrested. Breonna would have been 27 years old on June 5, 2020.
"People need to know that Breonna Taylor mattered and Breonna Taylor was great."
"Breonna was just full of life," Tamika said, in an interview with Good Morning America on June 5. "She loved life. She'd light up a room." Breonna's mother also shared that she worried her daughter, who was an EMT, will be forgotten. "In that brief moment, when people forgot about her for two months at a time, people need to know that Breonna Taylor mattered and Breonna Taylor was great," she said.
To ensure Breonna's life is not forgotten and that the officers involved in her killing are accountable, freelance writer Cate Young launched the #BirthdayForBreonna campaign. The initiative urges people to sign this petition seeking justice for Breonna's death, donate to the family's GoFundMe page, and send birthday cards to government officials to demand the officers involved be charged. Check out bit.ly/BirthdayForBreonna to learn more about what you can do to celebrate Breonna's life and urge action.
31 Inspiring Quotes From Queer Eye Season 5 For When You Need That Extra Motivation
The Queer Eye gang is back for season five, and this time they're in the city of Philadelphia. While the Fab Five - Antoni Porowski, Bobby Berk, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, and Tan France - are inspiring those on screen, each episode (with the exception of episode six, "DJ's on Repeat") is intercut with famous quotes to inspire viewers. From Martin Luther King Jr. to Kareem Abdul Jabbar, not only are the quotes uplifting, but they're perfectly paired with the message of each episode. And just in case you were wondering, yes, Queer Eye has already been renewed for season six.
vendredi 5 juin 2020
Just a Few Photos of Ghana Braids That Might Inspire You to Try the Hairstyle
One of the best things about being at home right now is that you can spend so much time experimenting with your hair, whether that means nursing it with deep treatments and masks regularly or switching between protective styles. If you're doing the latter, you probably already know that there are dozens of options at your fingertips, from passion twists to knotless box braids to the wildly underrated Ghana braids.
Ghana braids (also called Banana cornrows) are extensions that touch the scalp. They usually begin like regular cornrow braids, with synthetic hair slowly incorporated to create a larger plait near the nape. The best thing about them, though, is that there's not just one way to wear them. Read ahead to check out a few of our favorite takes on Ghana braids.
CNN and Sesame Street Will Talk to Kids About Racism in a 60-Minute Town Hall Tomorrow
On the heels of Sesame Street's antiracist statement on June 1, the show is taking a step in following through on its promise to "speak out against racism, to promote understanding, and to create a world that is smarter, stronger, and kinder." In collaboration with CNN, Sesame Street will talk to kids about racism in a 60-minute town hall on Saturday, June 6.
"The show will talk to kids about racism, the recent nationwide protests, embracing diversity and being more empathetic and understanding," reads the announcement on CNN. Big Bird will moderate the event with the help of CNN's Van Jones and Erica Hill, and other Sesame Street characters and experts will join to answer questions submitted by families across the country.
To submit your own question to potentially be answered during the special, fill out the form on CNN's site. "Coming Together: Standing Up to Racism. A CNN/Sesame Street Town Hall For Kids and Families" will air on CNN and stream live on CNN.com's homepage on June 6, at 10 a.m. ET.
As anger and heartbreak have swept across America over the killing of yet another black man at the hands of police, CNN and "Sesame Street" are refocusing their second town hall to address racism.
- CNN (@CNN) June 2, 2020
The 60-minute special will air on Saturday at 10 a.m. ET. https://t.co/bT0Wc6O1M4
Growing Up Biracial, Tia Mowry Noticed Differences in How Her Parents Were Treated
Tia Mowry is sharing her thoughts on white privilege as it pertains to her own family. As a biracial daughter to a Black mother and white father, Tia saw instances in which her father's inherent privilege was made apparent when juxtaposed with her mother's experiences. In an Instagram post accompanied by a photo of Tia with sister Tamara and their mother at a 2007 movie premiere, Tia reflects on her Sister, Sister days and what she hopes will come of the current movement toward racial justice.
"Growing up #biracial, mom is black and dad is white, it was very clear to me seeing the #privilege that my dad had as opposed to my #mother," she wrote. "Some examples, during our #sistersister days when traveling for work we would often fly first class. There were several times my mother was asked if she was in the right seat."
Tia shared another example from when her family was looking to buy their first house. When Tia walked into a model home with her mother and siblings, her mom was told the houses were sold out. Once her dad walked in behind them, "it was a different story."
Related: This Teen Breaks Down 16 of the Unwritten Rules He Has to Follow as a Young Black Man
Although those stories date back to the '90s, Tia is hoping that change is truly coming over 20 years later. "My #goal is to see #change. This year has been a tough year. Several tears have been shed. However, a friend told me these tears will not be wasted. The #love and #support around the world has kept me going," she wrote. "A #change is gonna come."
Articles
