The Post I Haven't Really Wanted to Make About BLM

[TygrBright]

I'm torn between two important bits of awareness.

The first is that affirming #BlackLivesMatter TO ME, is part of a process that's been somewhat-useful in the evolutionary process of social change, through the ages. That is, when you qualify as "mainstream" or "majority" or (quite frankly) "part of the problem," and you acknowledge the problem, take ownership of your share-by-default, and add your voice to the demands for change, you might-- just might-- raise the awareness of, and empower others like yourself, to make way for change.

And that's largely a good thing. So, there's that.

But here's the other awareness:

IT'S NOT ABOUT ME.

And trying to insert myself into the discussion as though what I say matters, perpetuates the whole "part of the problem" issue.

The voices that we need to be listening to, resonating to, responding to are not voices like mine.

Honestly, if I were a candidate-- caucasian middle-aged me? I'm not at all sure what kind of useful response I could make to a flash group of activists using the spotlight directed at me to get their message across.

A very important message.

A message I agree with.

A message I don't really want to dilute with well-intentioned platitudes, endorsements, affirmations, etc.

Because even though as a candidate, my voice would have some relevance, it could never begin to match the power of those speaking for themselves, their family members, friends, loved ones.

What would I say?

I don't know, I'm not a candidate, I haven't been in that situation. I might say something stupid, clueless, tone-deaf.

That wouldn't change the reality and the passion of my belief that those who are speaking need to be listened to, and that we need to change.

uncertainly,
Bright