A couple of nights ago, I was discussing what I was going to write my next article for Odyssey on, and my friend asked me a question: "How do the Black Lives Matter movement affect me personally as a police officer's daughter?" My answer was plain and simple; my father being a police officer does not affect my opinions on the movement at all. I fully support the Black Lives Matter movement, and I don't think my family ties should affect that.
People may ask me why it doesn't, and if I'm scared watching my father leave for work every day. Again, it's a simple answer; I am no more scared now than when I was 10 years old. I have always known my father had a dangerous job and that he could get hurt at any time-- therefore my fear has not increased. On the other hand, I have grown terrified of the minorities of this country leaving their houses every day. Black Lives Matter is not a violent movement and does not condone violence of any shape or form. When you become a police officer, you understand what you are risking, and so does your family-- the danger is a part of the job description. Being born African-American does not come with the description that you have to watch every move you make in fear that you could be shot for anything you may do.
In no way am I trying to speak for the African-American community, I am white. I do not understand what it feels like to endure racism and blatant remarks made by people over something that makes them who they are. What I am trying to do, however, is use my voice to make people understand that Black Lives Matter is not a belittlement to other races and that while yes, everyone's life matters, the African-American community is at extreme risk in today's world.
I saw a terrific analogy online of the movement that I would like to share; that Black Lives Matter is like a broken bone, but instead of just casting the bone that needs help, the doctor puts you in a full body cast. Sure, all bones matter, but doesn't the broken arm need to be tended to specifically, and individually, before we put focus on other perfectly fine bones? Shouldn't we focus on the problems at hand, and not try to belittle the movement with counteracting ones like "All Lives Matter" or "Blue Lives Matter?" How come people don't support Black Lives Matter because it doesn't say All Lives Matter, but then they go and support Blue Lives Matter? Is the operative word "black?"
The bottom line is contrasting movements to Black Lives Matter is a slap in the face to the African-American community. It is silencing the beautiful voices they have, and making their fight for equality less than what it should be. As a police officer's daughter, I am saying this to you-- Black Lives Matter; and as a non-minority, I am saying we have to acknowledge the privilege we have in today's world. Non-minorities are not in danger in this country, and we have to help the fight for our fellow American citizens that have a giant target on their backs. We should not silence Black Lives Matter or speak over them with belittling movements, but support them in the fight for equality. As a whole, everyone should stand up for the Black Lives Matter movement to create a real wave of change. Nothing will be accomplished if this country is in constant opposition, therefore we should all stand together-- united.
America does not stand for hatred, and never will-- so let's try to make strides into the future with equality instead of taking steps back in time with ignorance.
