I Have Had Enough

I feel helpless.

I sit in a very comfortable place of white privilege.

I am educated, overly so some would say.

I am shattered daily by the ways that people of color are treated in this country.

I saw the horrifying video of Ahmaud Arbery, the black man being hunted in Georgia while he was running.

I am sick.

I am sad.

I feel helpless.

I want to use my privilege to be an ally.

I give up my spotlight so oppressed people can speak. This is not enough.

I have an academic understanding of the ways in which our government systemically and historically oppresses people of color. This is not enough.

I draw people into conversations when they are using racist language. This is not enough.

I have arguments about racist behaviors. This is not enough.

I share stories and outrage on social media. This is not enough.

I highlight systemic oppression to colleagues, and students, and family members. This is not enough.

I listen to others when they share their experiences. This is not enough.

I include diverse voices in my research and ask hard questions so I really understand. This is not enough.

I march. I run. I protest. I signed the petition. This is not enough.

I help. I support. I advocate. I cry. This is not enough.

What can I do now?

I have had more than enough.