To the Movement,
In our time, I never thought I would see the active protesting of racial discrimination at such a large scale. That was, until, the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. He lay in obvious agony as a Minneapolis police officer placed his knee on his neck.
This was the moment that would change the entire trajectory of racial unrest.
What ensued included protests and riots, but for me, what I saw, was anger and sadness. I have never been I agreement with violence, nor am I now. However, where I see most people fall short is in understanding why some chose to do this. It's simple: it is a result of an entire country ignoring the pleas of equality from black people.
You can clutch your chest or stop reading this letter if that statement offends you. It doesn't make it any less true.
Right now, we as a people are feeling a mix of emotions ranging from grief and relief to be heard worldwide. Another issue I take is with persons who say what they would do or what should be done. To voice your opinion to people who've had to make split-second decisions in the face of a protest or something similar when you have never had to is presumptuous.
Our story on why we feel how we feel should, at the very least, be heard. Understood. Respected.
To all of my black people out there: the world is hearing and watching us. I am so glad that we have gotten vocal support from many around the globe.
There are many ways to support and join the movement, including making donations if you cannot go to the frontlines. Here are a few links, while I know there are many others.
Stay uplifted. Our allies: allow our voices to be elevated; we see you and love you for what you're doing.
I love all of you. We're in this together. This is only the beginning for the bigger movement.
Proudly,
Jessica
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