interview with Julian Alexander, professor & filmmaker
interview with Linner, future dentist
what you think allies can do better?
I think a lot of individuals who “say” there allies. Should ask themselves this question...If I’m honest after George Floyd’s Death, I got asked this countless numbers of times from Caucasian and Hispanic friends. Which felt a bit disrespectful, because I should’nt have to remind or tell someone how to be a genuine human being to other people. This question would also never be asked to someone who was “Caucasian” either. So, In getting asked this question, I realize that culture defines individuals in one way or another. Which sometimes leads us to have tunnel vision and blinders l to what we personally grew up with and considered“the norm”. As an ally, stand for equality in ALL races not just black. Put your family members, friends, people out and about in their place and educate them when they spew racial and insensitive comments or act on them for no reason. This includes the workplace, school, partners....Put yourself in environments or communities that are diverse and shaped by people who don’t look like you. Spread love and humbleness and attractions to all ethnicities, not holding one higher then the other. As an ally, truly try to understand other races and be open to being reprimanded and to also educating as you grow in being a better supporter of all races. What’s even more important is that I myself have to hold that same standard too, to other races.
what you think they're doing right?
I’m not sure what allies are doing right. Umm, I can say that having diverse ethnicities and Caucasian folks at protests and rallies is a good representation to see. Having them also express there views and actions on social media helps to. Having them verbalize injustice in person and through actions is also phenomenal. These little acts, provide hope, and instill a moral ground in some way shape or form. That’s important in little ways.
what are harmful things allies are doing that seem "well meaning"?
Adopting black culture and trends is a HUGE THING. Especially if the ally is not black. I understand if they have black friends or are in interracial relationships, but having cornrows, dreads, or adopting mannerisms or types of music that are indicative of a culture that is not your own. It is a bit disrespectful. You may mean well. But if you weren’t raised with that culture, it comes off a certain way. Which makes it important to get the backstory of where people come from and why they choose to act the way they do.
Touching my hair, or pointing out how cool and different it looks, bothers me and is disrespectful. calling me “pretty for a black girl” which I got many times in college, IS NOT OKAY. Normalize that if you wouldn’t ask a “Caucasian “ person that question, then you shouldn’t feel the need to ask me. You may mean well, but subtle racism is everywhere and minorities catch on quickly.
how you feel about the current climate?
Umm, weather? Or race? Weather wise, global warming is a life long issue and until the government really finds a way to reduce reuse and recycle properly, while also disposing of trash(not in the ocean). Nothing will change. Hopefully the new President can set precedent for a new approach on Global warming. In regards to racism, our current climate is HORRIBLE, UNJUST, STILL NOT EQUAL... sadly, people who look like me are still statistically killed more then any other race. We need a new policy on guns, mental health checks and evaluations for all, and police reform in an extreme way. The police need to receive jail time for killing innocent people. Especially if it’s intended and avoidable. Enough of killing 16year olds and those who are calling on the police to actually save them, not kill them. I shouldn’t have to watch my back when leaving my house.
what do you see currently as the biggest impediment for a Holistic justice?
Old ways of living, traditional mindsets, non progressiveness for our society, the police, healthcare as a privilege, the millennials and Gen Z generations want change, the old way of doing things IS NOT WORKING ANYMORE.