I hope you take the time to read this. I pray that people of the black community who have passed, find the safety and peace that was not given to them in this life. As the days go on, it pains me to see what is happening in our society. I think the most important thing we need to do is be educated and acknowledge what is going on around us. 

Acknowledge that if you follow and emulate aspects of black culture – music, fashion, speech – that you should feel a great responsibility to speak on the Black Lives Matter movement. Being light skinned  myself, I acknowledge that in many parts of my life I have a privilege over dark skin men and women in my community. Being half white, I acknowledge my family member’s privilege along with my own. Even if you feel you are not racist, please acknowledge times where you have expressed a form of discrimination because I believe we all have at some point in our lives. Educate yourself about slavery in America. Educate yourself on the current oppression of blacks and minorities. 

Please know this movement does not take away from your ancestors who may have been enslaved. Please know that this movement does not disregard people of all walks of life. There is just a specific focus on a community that has been oppressed and damaged for years.

After you educate and acknowledge, please plan to do the same with your family, friends, and future children. I encourage you to uplift black men and women in your life who have either raised you, or your own friends.

Love and hate is taught. We must do better.