Note: this was a newsletter sent to my subscribers. I have shared it here for permanent consideration.
I shared my experience getting caught amidst the first night of riots in Richmond, VA on Instagram last weekend. I felt the heat from a cop car on fire from our second-floor apartment in Jackson Ward. We eventually had to evacuate around 3 a.m. because the building was reportedly on fire. Gunfire flew around us as we headed to our car.
Since, I have only visited during brief moments to collect items for work. I am grateful to have already relocated to my hometown because of COVID-19 and therefore have somewhere to go for solace, rest and reflection. My apartment building is still difficult to get to at night. Just Wednesday evening, a tank was parked down the block.
I detail this story to simply share my physical experiences the past week to you, my friends, followers and supporters. You are a part of my community for whom I care for and care for me. My personal experiences are another story.
I have always believed in and have stood against racism. The previous weekend, I kicked a man twice my size out of my house for making a racist jab. Through more than a decade of work in nonprofits, I’ve seen how systematic racism can lead to increased rates of child abuse, health care discrimination, homelessness, addiction, and more. I have been more than touched this past week. I have been sad, angry, confused, and overwhelmed.
The concept of being deliberately anti-racist has never been presented to me. It’s never made it to the front line of what I do day-to-day. So, this week, I tried it out. Instead of my normal routines, I’ve been doing some of the following the past week instead:
- This movement has eclipsed anything else I talk or think about, with the exception of some work and relationship talk. I have prioritized conversations with my little brothers, listening and helping them process and learn. I’m having constant and ongoing conversations with friends, family and peers, as well. We’re helping each other process, make a difference, and evolve.
- I personally postponed any blog campaigns and social posting for the week, including paid contracts. Brands have agreed to continue to work with me, just at later dates. Some beat me to the punch and I was glad to hear they wanted to give their airtime to the movement.
- I’m also listening to voices outside of my circle, near and far. I’ve been reading comment threads, watching news from a variety of outlets, researching terms when I don’t understand them. I also share when I’m able to. I’ve started a highlight on Instagram stories. Click on BLM in my profile to see what I’ve shared.
- I’ve made sure to apply for my absentee ballot for the Democratic Primary in Virginia on June 23. It was really easy, especially if you don’t want to risk your health or safety at the polls. Click here.
- I donated to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Virginia chapter. I challenged everyone I know to find a new organization to donate to. Nonprofits are leaders of change and you can amplify their efforts this way.
- I’ve started to follow more influencers of color to learn and grow–they are overwhelmingly overlooked in the content creator industry. I’ve been following Influencing in Color for some time and have grown from their perspectives and adore their gorgeous content. Alicia Teniseis always a source of inspiration for me, too. We’ve gotten to know each other over the years as bloggers. There are thousands more BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) influencers you can follow. Alicia compiled a list here.
- I’m unfollowing and unsubscribing from influencers, companies and organizations that have been tone deaf and inappropriate in their response to this situation. As a public relations professional, it’s at best just sloppy business. At worst, they are ignorant or racist. I refuse to spend my time and money at a business with any of those traits.
- I’m exploring this list of books from my favorite blogger, Grace Atwood of The Stripe. It’s extensive, inclusive and approachable. If you have been touched by some sort of published work, send it my way: sweetsauceblog@gmail.com.
- I discovered and purchased from three Black-owned and women-owned businesses:
- Pivot Cosmetics is a CBD-infused beauty line. I am so excited for these items!
- I also bought a candle from Navabella, which as you know is based in Richmond, Va. I’ve already been a fan and needed to restock.
- Finally, I bought a bad ass choker necklace from Polished Concrete.
- More ways I may spend my money:
- I’m also exploring the Cushnie collaboration with Target. The high end label has always been a favorite and is led by a Black designer. These dresses are $40-$60! They usually START at $600.
- Jeffrey Campbell is donating 100% of their proceeds to the BLM movement between June 8 and June 21.
- I am letting the inspiration in along with all of the information. My friend’s store was looted and destroyed along with many other peers. I have been so inspired by their dedication to grace and solidarity. I am following them closely for personal inspiration and resolve with our shared trauma. It’s born a new commitment to do more. Instead of resentment against violent protestors, the discomfort has evolved into hope and healing. This is a deliberate and active choice to become a vehicle for positive change.
- I have learned more about my own white privilege, which I shared a bit about in this Instagram post.
- I have personally led conversations in a variety of companies and organizations as a public relations professional. It was difficult and incredibly rewarding. I believe in the future customers, donors and investors will begin asking questions about anti racism practices before they spend. I’m glad to hear how willing everyone is to step up and do the work.
- Finally, I’m also practicing self care. I am putting my phone in another room when I can. I’m eating with no electronics around. I’m taking long walks and long showers. Mental health is vital and burnout is real.
I’m sharing this as a personal account of my own work to create change within myself and among my community. I hope it offers inspiration to you. Difference is made step by step, little by little. You can do something small and it will be felt. I may not keep things up at this pace, but I will actively commit to keeping the momentum going in a variety of ways. I am here to talk if you have ideas, questions or curiosities. My personal email is sweetsauceblog@gmail.com.
