I know that the world is in turmoil since the murder of George Floyd on 25th May. I, like so many others, watched the footage on facebook, not knowing what I was about to see. Would I have watched it if I knew how horrific it was? Seeing is believing! It made me feel physically sick and so angry. The hopeless injustice and abuse of power overwhelmed me as I watched a white policeman kneel on Floyd’s neck for over eight minutes, despite the victim’s cries of “I can’t breathe”. The onlookers tried to help but were forced back. I felt like their words were my words. Crying out to stop the abuse in desperation. Institutionalisation racism not only permits this to happen but encourages it.
I am not surprised that the protesters resorted to extreme measures when the police officer was fired but no charges were brought against him. I do not condone violence but the government needed to listen and take action. Thankfully he has now been charged along with the three others involved. The question remains however…What would have happened if it wasn’t caught on film?
I worry for the protesters that are now engaged in a civil war against Trump (who has added fuel to the fire). Many protesters have suffered greatly and experienced oppression first hand. Now is the time to unite and campaign for political, positive change. Let the anger and frustration be put to good use. Segregating and burning down communities will not help. Enough is enough. Now is the time to unite in a common cause.
To fight for equality, highlight inequalities and campaign for real change.
‘An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind’.
So i encourage people to write to their PMS, Governors and Leaders; sign petitions, use your voice online and to educate those around you. We all have the power to influence and enlighten. Use creative methods to peacefully protest, raising awareness and gathering in solidarity to find practical ways to influence culture.
We cannot allow this. We have a civic duty to take action, but how we address this, will be our legacy. Hate breeds hate. Now is the time to drop our weapons and fight with our powers to influence. Lead by example and be the change we want to see in the world. The Anti-racist movement is what is required. We must not be silenced, and yet, we must choose our words and actions carefully. The world is watching. Our children will face the consequences of how we respond. Rise up in wisdom and unity. What would Martin Luther King Jr. do? Keep moving forward. Black Lives Matter.
