Once you see injustice, it becomes a responsibility of yours. To ignore it is essentially agreeing that it is OK to let it continue as is. White folk have had and continue to have that privilege – we can ignore the reality of others because we don’t have to live it.
I believe that this time is coming to an end. Anyone claiming innocence will be called out. The tide is shifting. The rise of those on the far right trying to fight this trend through shameful tactics such as reversing women’s reproductive rights, by using voter suppression, by instilling fear of immigration and Indigenous rights is a reaction to the growing demand for a more equitable and responsible society.
Social Media has become a tool for learning, albeit one where you have to choose wisely as mis-information is rampant. I follow thought leaders, warriors and those with opposing perspectives. Frustration, rage, overwhelm are daily reactions. This is how the mind reacts. However my heart tells me that there is hope and to focus there.
I keep asking myself, “What can I do? How can I contribute?” I have come to realize that this isn’t a competition. I don’t have to fight the way my on-line heroes do. I have tried marching and showing up at protests. I am apt to cry during these occasions. Then my focus is on managing my emotions and not on the issue at hand and making my voice heard. I will let others lead in this way.
I can contribute in the background.
I post on Social Media for the Truth and Reconciliation Community – Bobcaygeon. Our Facebook page is spreading the word of our efforts and the current issues we are tackling. I can also follow up on these issues by emailing, calling or writing postcards to those with authority in these matters.
The other thing I can do is start conversations.
One day on a browse through Instagram, I saw some delightful MatchBook paintings. I thought this would be a great way to reach out to people. So I made some mini-paintings, cut up some covers from scraps of card stock and added a prompt or call to action on the back.
So far folks have enjoyed picking a MatchBook they relate to from the pack. Some people take an extra to pass on.
I have had many more conversations that I would have had previously.
It is a small thing to do. I am counting on ripples.
What action can you take that comes from your heart and your head?
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