Black Lives Matter: Ways to Support in YYC
Graphic is created by: ohhappydani
Over the past couple of days, I have done some deep reflecting on my life as a white folk in comparison to that of a black folk or POC. I know that my life has had/continues to have many privileges due to my colour. I also know it is my duty to learn more right now and share what I can. I spent some time researching about the history of black Folks and the attrocious racism they have Faced across many years. Although I cannot stop the racism experienced by black folks myself, I can do something. I can try, I can educate, I can share, and I can intervene when I hear another showing such acts of Racism. If you can do anything today please choose one of these areas to either read, donate, or listen too. And rather than applauding this post please choose to share it. Share it to your feeds and stories so others can learn and educate as well.
Donate:
Black folks do not experience the same opportunities white folks do to advance their businesses and organizations with as much ease and grace. As folks with white privilege we can help support them by donating a small amount or sharing their organization if a donation is not possible.
Calgary Non-Profit Organizations you can make a donation too:
Action Dignity YYC
Community Wise YYC
Ancestors Future YYC
Organizations shared here were initially seen on Tigerstedflea - click the handle to view their content.
Educate:
read - watch - listen
Teach your children and teach yourself by purchasing and supporting these local authors by POC sharing their experiences as Black people in Canadian culture and sharing ways to break down white privileged and anti-racist beliefs with yourself and your children.
Book by Cheryl Foggo find it on various platforms listed here and a video featuring Cheryl discussing the book and her reasons for writing it here.
Watch YYC colours by Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation -exploring racism in Calgary on YouTube.
Read Drawing Down A Daughter By Claire Harris
This Calgary based author has created a beautiful book of poems using that narrative of a pregnant woman to her unborn daughter.
Talk about it with your children:
YYC blogger Lemons for Days has shared a post with 15 children’s books to help you open up the discussion on Racism using child friendly language.
View the list here: https://lemonsfordays.com/childrens-books-diversity-unity-race/
Support:
Here are some AMAZINGLY talented WOC bloggers in YYC that you can show love and support too by acknowledging their content and visiting their page!
A gorgeous editor, beauty and lifestyle blogger here in YYC.
Toyosi Clay
A beautiful YYC blogger sharing her love for fashion and travel!
https://www.instagram.com/toyo_c/
a truly stunning fashion blogger modelling YYC in some of the most amazing outfits! Serious outfit inspo!
Abigail is an amazing fashion and lifestyle blogger here in YYC, she finds the most gorgeous corners of our city to take some beautiful photos!
Although I have only shared a few there are so many other incredible black artists, creators, authors, writers here in YYC.
This YYC mama shares beautiful moments with her family of 4 and is soon welcoming another blessing! Check out her lovely family.
Additional ways to helP and suppOrt:
visit Aftobiz.ca!
Sharing a list of Black owned and operated business in Calgary, AB, Canada. Source afrobiz.ca
Show your support locally by dining in or purchasing from Black run businesses here in Calgary.
Find a list of more locally owned and operated Black business in YYC at afrobiz.ca.
Write a letter to your local MLA vocalizing your anger and disproval for the way that POC have been treated/the acts of racism that have been taken against them and your ideas or request for action to help them.
If you are unsure, find your local MLA here.
I know it is my duty and my time to help share resources and educate. That includes myself. If you know of any other resources I could add to this please comment below or send me an email through my inquiry from.
Thank you for being patient with me. I am learning and trying just as so many others are. I will continue to do so each day moving forward. I hope to grow more educated and to advocate harder because your life matters to me.
Love and light always,
Xx
Nikki