There are times when we all need to "stay in our lanes." This means that there are times when it's best to let the group actually affected by something speak out and not silence them or invalidate their feelings.
As a black youth, I may speak out on matters that are relevant to my life and identity. As such, it angers me when people who are not black, and do not face any discrimination, shout over black voices just to make remarks that do nothing to help the black community or bring change and equality.
I am also a person of color, so I support not only the black community, but other minorities who are oppressed and discriminated against. However, I also know that other PoC groups face issues that I may not personally face as an African-American and, thus, I allow those groups to speak out and try not to silence their voices.
Being a low-income student, I've faced struggles that my wealthier peers may not have faced. I talk with a lot of other low-income students who understand my plight. It feels good to know that others can relate to facing financial strain and not being able to afford the lifestyles of wealthier peers.
As a female, I can relate to other issues women face and understand the fears and concerns women particularly face in everyday life. There are times when I feel that women are treated unfairly or are considered inferior to their male counterparts. Thus, I enjoy finding ways to discuss issues with other females and helping empower each other in society.
As a Christian, I cannot relate to the discrimination and persecution of Muslims or other religious minorities in America. I am not ridiculed for my religion, so it is not my place to speak up when other religious groups express their thoughts and concerns. However, I can show support by standing in solidarity with others, being informed, and taking action against discrimination toward my religious counterparts. I can also pray for others even if we may not have the same beliefs or practice the same faith.
Because I identify as cisgender (identify as the gender assigned at birth), it is not my place to speak out on issues that relate to the trans community. I cannot speak on issues that directly affect people who identify as trangender, non-binary, or any other non-cis gender identity. But I can show support by voting against discriminatory laws, learning and respecting one's preferred pronouns, and being informed about issues within the community.
I identify as heterosexual, so it is not my place to speak over voices in the LGBTQ+ community. Why should I silence others or invalidate their personal experiences? Instead, it's best to support those who may face discrimination. I can email legislators about important issues to help bring about change and learn to be a better ally to the LGBTQ+ community.
I demand respect within the spaces and communities I am a part of and want those who do not share in my particular experiences to be respectful of me as well as others and not speak over us. I want to be able to freely express myself and voice my thoughts on issues relevant to my identities. I also know that I should be respectful of others in spaces I am not a part of.
To truly bring about change and solidarity among people, we must all learn to respect each other and stay in our respective lanes in issues that do not concern us. Instead, we must listen to those who are oppressed and ask what we can do to stand in solidarity and help those who are hurting.
