This week’s newsletter is going to be a little different, because with everything going on in the world - how could it not be? It felt a little odd and tone-deaf to try to be lighthearted and bubbly when I don’t feel that way - and I know many of you who read this newsletter don’t feel light either. To be perfectly honest, I feel a mix of emotions that circle being exhausted, sad, confused, angry, irritated, and hopeless. So instead of my normal commentary, I wanted to respond to a question or sentiment that I’ve heard from several of my friends: what can I do?
While protesting may not be your lane, there are many other things that you can do like educating others, keeping yourself informed so you can speak up, showing empathy, and yes - even voting. Here are a few things/resources that I have donated to and/or found helpful. If you have any additional ones, please let me know on this thread. I would love to keep the resources/conversation going.
Some of the photos coming from the various protests around the country are extremely powerful - here’s a collection of some.
F.B.I to Investigate Shooting of Breonna Taylor by Louisville Police
Yesterday’s episode of The Daily Podcast, “A Weekend of Pain and Protest.”
Listen/Watch this powerful speech from Tamika D. Mallory.
Support #BlackOutTuesday
Dive through the Anti-Racism Resources which has a host of resources from articles, podcasts, videos and more
This is a perfect example of how a leader can show empathy. Love reading what Citi Bank CFO Mark Mason had to say, especially this part: “These systemic problems will not go away until we confront them head-on. So we must continue to speak up and speak out whenever we witness hatred, racism, or injustice. I know I will – and I hope you will too.”
Your Black Colleagues May Look Like They’re Okay — Chances Are They’re Not
Although voting can’t help everything. It is a step in the right direction. We need to get Trump out of office. We currently have a leader who insights chaos and violence by saying, “When they start looting, they start shooting.” Like bruh. Why would you tweet such a thing? He also holds Bibles and tells protestors and the media that he is going to call in the Military to break things up which isn’t the right action. We need to get him out of there. I’m not sure Biden is the best bet - but I do feel confident in saying he’s better than the coward we have now.
Also, staying on the political front: Black Americans Have a Message for Democrats: Not Being Trump Is Not Enough
Also, here are seven virtual mental health resources right now.
These are just a few of the resources. Again, please share some others that you know - also, let me know how you’re feeling with everything going on.
I hope that you’re also finding some time to practice self-care. I’ve had to unplug, tbh. I’ve been finding things to spark joy like: my new summer cocktail - Watermelon Vodka with Sparkling Watermelon Juice from Trader Joes and lime. It’s great, but it will also put you to sleep so drink on the chill mode. I tried it Saturday evening, and woke up Sunday morning like “who this? new phone.” Also, I watched Insecure which sparked way too much joy. I clapped at the screen and held my breath several times.
Lastly, replaying Sunday’s Verzuz with Kirk Franklin and Fred Hammond (here’s the playlist) has given me so much joy. I caught the Holy Ghost several times and got out some good cries. I also learned that the Lord was my LOT and Savior, via Tyrese. The funniest thing I heard about Tyrese’s unfortunate Verzuz typos is this: “May Jesus be a spell check around him every day.”
That’s all for today. Sending you love and light.