Standing Against Racism
I'm heartbroken by the racism in our country. I'm grieved by the hatred and injustice on display. And I'm resolved to do something with these emotions.
I want them to move on behalf of people who have been abused and mistreated. People who are beloved children of God.
I keep pondering the question of how I (and other white people) can make a lasting impact with our actions.
Unless we take action, we're not agents of change. Unless we soften our hearts to what's needed—rather than what makes us feel or look good—we're actually part of the problem.
How can white people move beyond just speaking of change and actually take a stand for it?
What are ways for white people stand against racism?
I don't have all the answers, but I'm committed to learning and growing. Here are the action steps I've gathered thus far. (Is there something I missed? Please share it in the comments below.)
1. Be where Jesus is:
Jesus prioritizes & defends the oppressed. He gives them a voice. He hears their voices. He is with them. If we love Jesus, we'll do the same.
"When we speak up for justice, when we call attention to mistreatment of minorities, that's not being divisive; that's being united to the heart of God. It's not being political; it's biblical."
Dr. Glenn Packiam, New Life Downtown
2. Be willing to learn and grow:
As white people, we won't always get it right. We have a lot to learn. Be humble to accept the part you've played in racism—and be willing to continually learn, receive feedback, and advocate for others.
3. Listen to POC voices:
Listen to the voices already in your lives. Also listen to POC voices with lots to say about fighting racism. Here are a few to get you started:
4. Educate yourself:
Friends, there are SO many resources. Here's a list to get you started.
5. Speak out when you see racism:
It may be the "simplest" of these suggestions, but unless we speak out when we see or hear racism of any kind (racial slurs, jokes, and stereotyping included), we can't expect things to change.
6. Sign petitions for justice:
Changing systems that weren't built on fairness doesn't happen quickly or easily. Things won't change because of re-tweets or Instagram stories alone, but we can choose to be part of the hard work of change.