The purpose of this blog is to give tools and resources to improve sex and love. Yet, I cannot talk about those subjects right now. Satisfying sex is only possible when there’s safety. And love cannot sit idle when people are dying.
As a mental health professional, I think it’s necessary to address the social unrest in our Nation.
Why social justice is on everyone’s mind
After the murder of George Floyd, individuals and community groups are calling for Revolution. Black people are speaking out against the oppression and abuse of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color). Systemic racism has created a reality where Black people are targets of discrimination and violence.
If you are reading this and agree, then you’ve done some work to understand inequality in this Nation. Right now, every person aware of racial injustice has an opportunity. We all have a chance to be on the side of love and care for people in need.
Racial Injustice is a Fact
Watching the video of a White man actively, and three other men complicity, killing a Black man has forced public awareness of racism in our society. If therapists are ignoring these events, then we are not serving mental health. The most significant marker of mental health is safety.
It is impossible to work on personal or relational growth without first experiencing safety. Black people in the United States do not feel safe because they aren’t. This Nation has a responsibility to create safety for BIPOC, and you can help make it happen.
So What Can I Do?
BIPOC and White allies are asking the question, “What can I do?” There are so many things White allies can do to help Black folks during this time. Educating yourself and giving money are the two most important steps to take now.
Educate yourself on anti-racism and anti-White Supremacy. Check out this booklist Forbes compiled on the subject. Read or listen to The New York Times 1619 Project.
Contact your local representatives to demand the use of body cameras on all policemen.
Vote for candidates who fight for equal housing and education opportunities for BIPOC.
Protect Black people at protests by standing between them and police/counter-protestors.
Donate money to Social Justice and grassroots groups. People in these groups have made a career of advocacy and know how to make an impact. If you don’t know where to start, look at BlackLivesMatter.com, NAACP, The Bail Project, Campaign Zero, The Loveland Foundation, and ACLU.
Follow BIPOC on your social media feeds. Listen to what they are saying. Hear the message they are sharing and repeat it.
Understand what to say (and what not to say) to BIPOC. Read 100 ways to be a white ally.
You’ve got this! Your actions do matter, and you can make a difference in this Revolution. Listen and act in love.