Like many of you, I’m sitting here today wondering what the hell is going on in America. Things need to get done. Even though you may feel like you can’t make any change happen, there are larger groups with more infrastructure in place that can. Join with them or donate.
- Southern Poverty Law Center. Mission: “The Southern Poverty Law Center is dedicated to fighting hate and bigotry and to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of our society. Using litigation, education, and other forms of advocacy, the SPLC works toward the day when the ideals of equal justice and equal opportunity will be a reality”
- Anti-Defamation League: A national organization devoted to fighting anti-Semitism and bigotry in all forms
- Speak out. If you hear racist/bigoted/hate comments, call them out. Yes, it’s uncomfortable. Try to do it respectfully and engage in conversation to help someone understand the problem, not just name calling. Violence is not a solution. Open a dialogue. This is the most important thing, IMHO.
It’s on all of us to work this out. We can’t wait for someone else to do it for us.
I’ve been committed to #3, even though it is more my nature to avoid the awkwardness and just change the subject. Thanks for the pep talk. The wind was ripped from my sails when DeVos was approved.
It is awkward, but I guess it will never get comfortable unless we keep doing it.
Good post Lori. I don’t know about the ADL (#2) but I do know the SPLC (#1) sends news alerts and a weekly recap of important articles and issues if you sign up for them.
I donate a small amount monthly. Also to other organizations that watch out for other issues currently being changed and/or negated. Like the NRDC (environmental issues). Small donations add up over time. Speaking up helps too – just be safe about it. (For ex- don’t be one person trying to reason with an angry mob.)
Hopefully America will survive our current turmoil.
Sadly I don’t think much will change except that maybe we can drive these groups back underground – our current president has emboldened them to come front and center. I do like the social media outing and shaming of them. Hey, if you’re going to be a racist ass, everyone, including your employer, needs to know.
I agree with Shelley. And given that Asshat-in-chief is a known racist and surrounds himself with white supremacists, I doubt very much anything will change. In fact, I have every expectation that it will get worse. The words of David Duke were chilling, especially when he tweeted Asshat to remember that it was “white Americans” who voted for him and not “leftist radicals.” WTF? First, not all white people voted for him. Second, since when does standing against hatred and bigotry make someone a leftist radical? It’s that kind of divisive language that is pulling our country further in the hole. No one wants to be “labeled” a leftist radical and so many people stay silent. Ugh.
I agree with everything said here; sad state of affairs and it just seems to be getting worse. I would also add the ACLU to your excellent list of suggestions and organizations. They are fierce watchdogs, they know the law, backwards and forwards, and they’re not afraid to use it in the name of justice.
Thank you for posting this! I want to do something, but don’t know how to get started. This is good info for people like me.
I was away when all this hit & saw on my phone. I was nonstop with family but I certainly posted from my phone. I am beyond disgusted with this vile 45!!!!
Thanks for those links. I haven’t considered those. I usually donate to the ACLU.