Quite often after blatant racist events transpire well-intentioned white people, those filled with moral outrage, turn to their black friends asking the inevitable questions: "What can I do? How can I help?" The very fact that the questions are asked in the first place indicates that the moral compass has somehow been violated ... from the white point of view. For a person of color, however, this serves as a reminder that their well-intentioned white friends have been shielded from what they experience all the time.
Singer and songwriter Courtney Ariel recently responded to her would-be white allies with a short list of tips.[1]
Listen more, talk less
. If you are a part of dominant white culture dare to listen to the voice of others.
Use your influence
. Use whatever power you have for good. Influence others. Strive to change unjust policies and practices.
Don't be shocked
. Try not to say, "I can't believe something like this is still happening!" This shows how out of touch you are with the daily experience of the marginalized.
Stop talking about colorblindness
. It's not a thing. Saying you are colorblind simply exposes your blind spot.
Don't expect people of color to educate you
. Do the work to educate yourself. Ask respectful questions.
Keep trying
. Keep showing up, even if you make mistakes. This will take a long time. Always show genuine empathy.
[1] Ariel, Courtney, "For Our White Friends," Sojourners, Nov 2017, 12.
