I have wanted to say something for several days, but I have struggled to do so until now. I have struggled with anger. With sadness. With fear. With exhaustion. But knowing that many of you are struggling with the same emotions, I am waiting no longer.
I am angry that it’s the year 2020 and we in the black community are STILL fighting to merely exist.
I am saddened by the ill-formed logic of those proclaiming all lives matter, who then sit back and do nothing when black lives are taken senselessly.
I live in fear because the police continue to be called upon, and respond to calls when blacks are just living their lives, and these false reports lead to tragic deaths.
I am exhausted from the repeated, continual instances when those in positions of authority commit criminal acts and are not held accountable.
With the senseless murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and so many others, the black community is once again forced to speak seriously with their children and families about the continued, systematic racism that plagues our country.
So what does this mean for me? I will take this opportunity to repeat what should never be questioned: I do not tolerate nor stand for racism, bigotry, xenophobia, or sexism. I, in all of my personal and professional roles, will continue to stand side by side and support those fighting to bring change, fairness and equality to our justice system.
I think a lot about my leadership role in the Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu. With such a diverse membership, I believe it is our duty to rally with our black members, to be allies, to be advocates, and to offer our support. Now and in the future. The mission of the Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu and the Cyberjutsu Girls Academy is to empower women and girls to advance and lead in cyber, not only through providing technical, hands-on learning, but by building confidence and self-sufficiency in a safe space.
I believe there is something that we can all do to pull ourselves up above the anger, the sadness, the fear, the exhaustion. We can help. Here are a few suggestions for how you can get involved to demonstrate allegiance and advocate for the black community.
Help the next generation to be better. Teach your children to respect and love people no matter the color of their skin or their backgrounds. People should be judged by their character
Join a peaceful protest in your community and engage with your fellow protesters. Listen to their stories. Protect them. Stand with them!
Acknowledge that racism exists. Acknowledge its toxicity. Understand how it impacts the black community and all communities.
Educate yourself and your family about what is happening today. Understand that not everything in the news or on social media is accurate. Learn how to get the facts.
Donate to a worthy cause combating the injustices that plague our nation and the world.
Be an advocate for the black community. You may not realize how much weight your voice can carry.
There are a lot of resources to help you, and here are a couple that I like: https://www.adhoc.fm/post/black-lives-matter-resources-and-funds/
I realized that I needed to reach out. To process my anger, my fear, my sadness, my exhaustion. And if any of you needs to cry, to vent, or to be angry, I am here for you and with you.
~Mimi