This week, many people across the world have taken to social media to share their support for the Black Lives Matter Movement. While sharing posts on social media is a great start, there is more that you can do. So if you're not sure what you can do next, here are a few ideas.
1. Continue to educate yourself
Right now, people are sharing a lot of great resources online that can be used to understand more information behind the movement and why it is important. Some great places to locate resources can be your local bookstores, public libraries and online in places such as Twitter, Instagram and other educational platforms such as Ted Talks and Podcasts. The great thing is resources can be found anywhere and are often free. To get you started, I have attached a link to a list of Ted Talks that you can check out.
2. Talk to your friends and family
I know for many people that having these discussions with your friends and family can be difficult. It might be difficult but I still encourage you to have these conversations with those individuals feel comfortable enough to do so. If you aren't ready to have these conversations yourself, you can always just share these resources with them.
3. Donate
Now there are many places to donate, so if you are in the position to do so, then I recommend doing your research before picking an organization. One way you can donate without having to donate yourself is by watching this video. This video is a collection of other videos discussing the movement but it has been heavily advertised. All of the proceeds from it will be used to donate to different organizations. So by just watching the video or letting it run, you are helping donate a little bit of money.
4. Sign petitions, attend protests, or call officials.
For anyone who is looking to get more hands on, this is some of the ways you can help show your support. This can look different in each state so once again make sure you are doing your research. Online you can find information on protests happening near you as well as officials that you can call. If you are going to participate in these ways, please remember to again do your research and remain safe.
5. Do your research and vote.
One of the best ways you can help bring change is by voting. If you are unhappy with what you are seeing from your officials, you have the power to change it through voting. So do you part and research your candidates then vote when it is time.