The world is boiling. At least it feels that way. There are protests about rape and murder, not to mention the background pandemic that has still not stopped. I think it’s perfectly understandable to feel helpless. To feel overwhelmed with the news rushing at you, or to feel like there’s not much you can do.
At some point, I wondered if my shares and reposts on social media were even making a difference. We were just getting over the story of #AhmaudArbery hunted and shot like an animal before the horrifying video of the murder of #GeorgeFloyd began to circle.
Still taking that in we were brought back home with a rude awakening of #JusticeforUwa and #JusticeforTina. One brutally raped and murdered and the other shot by a drunk policeman. Fam! It’s a lot. And thinking of yourself as one individual can make you feel so small.
But I am convinced of the power of ripple effects. Protests are cumulative, and if you are not the kind to scream your lungs out or march on the streets, don’t beat yourself up. There’s something for you too; a way to acknowledge the injustice and demand for the right cause of actions.
Your tiny efforts make a difference. But if you are still unsure how to plug into the current demands for justice, here are a few ways to do so.
Donate to a verified organisation that is working hard to provide support to rape survivors and their families in any way. Survivors often need healthcare, rehabilitation. Social workers need funds. In fighting for justice, money plays a huge role. There are several causes making the rounds, do your research and give in good faith.
Join a peaceful protest. At least as peaceful as you can manage. It is your constitutional right but there are hoodlums who try to take advantage and incite violence. Remember, your getting hurt does not help the objective. Stay safe.
Share. You may be in a really tight spot financially and may not be in an area where a protest is taking place. The bare minimum you can do is speak up on social media. If you’re at a loss for words, share content that reflects your thoughts, share posts with helpful information, asking for donations or point people in the right direction to support survivors.
I recently saw a tweet by Poet Lindsay Young, she said ‘Resistance is NOT a one lane highway. Maybe your lane is protesting, maybe your lane is organizing, maybe your lane is counseling, maybe your lane is art activism, maybe your lane is surviving the day.
Do NOT feel guilty for not occupying every lane. We need all of them. We need you.?