THE DO'S
|
THE DONT'S
|
Do reach out to the people of color in your life to let them know that you're thinking about them. This can be as simple as sending a text or offering a direct message on social media. Something as simple as, "I see you," or "Just know that I'm thinking about you," works. Don't expect a response or be offended if they don't get back to you right away, if at all. Many of the same rules of etiquette around grieving also apply here.
Don't place the burden of your racial awareness education on your Black friends. This seems counterintuitive to some white people, especially those with close friends who identify as Black or African American or have some connection to the African diaspora. When we're feeling helpless, it seems natural to turn to a trusted confidante who has a personal, visceral experience with racism to get some answers. But that is precisely why you shouldn't do that. Remember, as horrified as you are at watching new footage of protests turning violent and police inflicting brutality on demonstrators, realize that unless your friend is named Candace Owens or Ben Carson, she or he is probably many times more exhausted and traumatized than you are. |