MUSING #8 : Popping the Bubble of Ignorance

MUSE: I’ve spent most of the morning on instagram watching more videos of police brutality, unjust killing of POC citizens, and racist white ladies (Karens). To get off of Instagram but continue being engaged with the issues, I read from The Black and The Blue (by Mathew Horace and Ron Harris) which discusses institutionalized racism in the American police force. 

MUSING:

I am doing my best to reeducate myself about the history of (AND current) abuse, oppression, and killing of Black citizens in America. Some of what I see on Instagram feels impossible for the liberal 21st century ‘land of the free’ that America is meant to be. But it’s more than possible, it’s reality. As someone who was raised after the Civil Rights movement and Segregation, and in mostly white neighborhoods, I was not exposed to these realities. No one really talked about it, including African American classmates and teachers. Even in my twenties, living in LA, London, and NYC, I was protected by a liberal bubble; hanging out with people of all ethnicities and ages who saw each other as equals, so it was easy to forget that other people don’t see the world as we do: through Love and Respect. Others see the world as a battle ground in which they have to come out on top.

So I guess I’m reflecting on the police brutality? Or about the continued oppression of black people by the police? Or white people’s lack of awareness of the institutionalized racism happening throughout the country? Fuck I’m not sure. They’re such expansive topics and issues and I’ve hardly touched the tip of the iceberg. I have so much research, and conversations, and self reflection to do until I understand the extent of the issues and how I can be part of the process to change our society from being violent and oppressive towards People of Color, to a society that is supportive of and protects all citizens. 

I feel a bit scared to post this. Scared that I’m saying the wrong thing. That it could be used against me somehow in the future. But at the same time, I know I am on the right side; fighting for peace, equality, and love. I wouldn’t write anything that’d intentionally offend people, and if someone is offended I’d want to hear their feelings and learn how to do better. But I do need to be brave and write about what’s happening now. I’m consumed everyday with new information and have a duty to not look away or think about something ‘easier’ to confront. It is hard and it is necessary. It’s a practice that we need to all take part in every day.