Black Lives Matter: What Do We Do Next?

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I would be remiss not to address the horrific incidences of rioting and racism occurring throughout our nation. I have never been one to stay silent when blatant injustice is happening around me, but I have chosen to do so until this point because as a white women, I want to tread lightly.

This is not my time to shine.

This is not my time to share my story, because I’m white and I don’t have one.

This is not my time to flood your newsfeed declaring my loyalty to people of color.

This is not my time to pretend I understand the fear and sadness and anger of so many, because I can’t even begin to imagine.

However, this is my time to do the most impactful work of all: teach my children that a person is not defined by the color of their skin.

Now is my time to listen and respectfully follow the lead of people of different races other than mine.

Now is my time to arrive with an open heart and an open mind.

Now is my time to lead by example for my children.

I stand by my friends and the hardships they have undoubtedly endured. I stand with them as a member of their village. I stand with them as they are mothers and fathers and working parents - each of us are doing everything we can to provide the best lives for our children.

As a white women, I stand here with naive humility. I will not stand passively and I will not turn my head. I stand tall with those on the side of humanity.

Below are ways to make a difference within the black community and promote a positive outlook on race within your home:

Buy Children’s Books Discussing Race

31 Children’s Books to Support Conversations on Race, Racism, and Resistance compiled by The Conscious Kid

Anti-Racism For Kids 101: Starting To Talk About Race