She Strengthens

The Unavoidable Reality of Black Rage

Black rage is not only justifiable but also a natural response to the repetitive trauma inflicted by our system’s violent design. This system, which benefits non-Black individuals like myself, often responds to white rage with protection and patience, while meting out brutality and aggravation to Black people. The more I learn about this reality, the more helpless I feel, especially since I still need to participate in this system to live.

Internalizing the Reality

However, it’s essential to recognize that our helplessness can translate into unproductive outrage and a desire to act, which only burdens Black people with directionless emotions. Black individuals have lived with this reality for 300 years and don’t need uneducated, non-Black anger. Instead, they need tangible support and resources.

Redistributing Comforts

To overcome the initial emotional hurdle, I’ve found it helpful to understand that my feeling of helplessness stems from a mix of guilt and vulnerability. Redistributing my comforts is also crucial. This comfort can take many forms, including time, skills, energy, or money. During this pandemic, I know many people are finding comfort in activities like baking bread. The question is: Will you share it?

Sharing Resources

Sharing resources is specifically about providing financial support to Black communities and individuals. If you’re looking for information on anti-racist education and protests, there are resources available. However, if you’re willing to take action, consider redistributing your wealth to Black folks who need it.

The Cost of Dismantling Systemic Racism

Dismantling systemic racism requires making ourselves vulnerable and taking risks. It’s not just about feeling less financially secure; it’s about recognizing that our capitalist system has perpetuated a lie that we can all “bootstrap our way up.” Consciously donating money is a way to remember that dismantling systemic racism must cost us something.

Supporting Black Communities

There are many ways to support Black communities, including:

• Directly supporting Black people: Use platforms like Venmo, Cash App, and PayPal to donate money directly to Black individuals.
• Supporting Black women: Recognize that Black women, especially Black trans women, are at risk and need support.
• Supporting youth fighting for their lives: Donate to organizations that provide resources to young people on the front lines.
• Supporting Black people who are staying at home: Provide support and care to Black individuals who may not be able to attend protests due to various reasons.
• GoFundMes for Black families and individuals: Donate to GoFundMe campaigns that support Black families and individuals affected by COVID-19, medical emergencies, or grieving for a family member.
• Black therapy: Support organizations that provide therapy and wellness events for Black people.
• Supporting Black businesses: Look for lists of Black-owned businesses and restaurants in your area and support them.
• Bail funds: Consider making a monthly donation to bail fund organizations that work to release people who can’t afford bail from jail sooner.

Aftercare for Black People

During this time, think of your interactions with Black people as aftercare for them. If funds are an issue, consider how you can provide a sense of security for them through physical and emotional safe spaces. Avoid having them explain or educate you on the situation, and instead focus on affirming and gentle language to help them decompress.

On Your Own Time, Read Up on Anti-Racism

It’s essential to understand police brutality in the context of Black Lives Matter and interrogate your biases around criminality and violence. Start with resource documents and prison abolition resources to educate yourself.

Black Folks Have Done Too Much Unpaid Labor

Black people have created alternative forms of care outside capitalism that were quickly exploited by capitalist systems. The least we can do is pay them now so they have one less thing to stress about. Money buys meals, pays rent, and brings security. It’s time to recognize the value of Black labor and provide compensation for their unpaid work.