TO BE COMPLETELY SILENT, IS REALLY LOUD

As we enter the new work week, I have created a short list of what I know and what I will ask. I want to encourage others to do the same. The issue of racism and recent racially motivated incidents are often hard for people to talk about. However, to be completely silent, is really loud. For our society to change we need everyone’s voice. I understand, that sometimes finding the right words to say is not easy. Here are seven themes to consider:

I know I need to, and want to, pause to recognize the pain many members of the African American community are feeling

I will ask “How are you doing? How are you feeling? Do you want to talk about the recent racially motivated incidents? Is there anything I can do for you?”

I know the pain and rage goes beyond the African American community. Racism is not just a people of color issue, it is a HUMAN issue

I will ask “How can we stand up together to fight these ongoing racially-biased and hate-filled attacks? How do we ALL become part of the solution? What will you do differently?”

I know that many will show-up to work tomorrow emotionally depleted while feeling the pressure to engage on calls, lead teams, meet deadlines, smile on video conferences and come across approachable and energized – ALL while deeply hurting inside

I will ask to those outside of the community of color “Are you creating a space for empathy? Are you ALL understanding the incredible pain and fear people of color are feeling? Do you know that the unjust and brutal killing of George Floyd feels like a loss of a family member or loved one to many even though they never met him? Do you need help in finding the words to say? Can we agree to simply start a conversation from the heart?”

I know I will continue to collaborate with leaders, colleagues and peers as we join forces to leverage our collective power to effect change. We will continue to strive to do our best. Recognizing, that we may still experience some missteps along the way. Even with good intentions we may inadvertently disappointing some.

I will ask “How can we continue to create greater awareness? How quickly can we apply the learnings from the feedback? How quickly can we respond to those who have provided feedback?’

I know that I will need to show up this week full of strength and energy so that I can continue to advocate for equality; so that I can be available to listen, lift spirits, educate, make critically important decision. Just like last week, I need to make room for people’s tears, I need to learn from every emotional conversation so that I can do right by each person and think of ways to solve for their concerns

I will ask of ALL “How will you show up? Are you extending yourself to have conversations, stepping out of your comfort zone encouraging people to share with you their pain and fear? Have you paused to think about how you can make yourself available and have those transparent and emotional conversations?”

I know I will also need to continue being present for my family, for my 17 year old son who continues to see all this hate and racially motivated attacks on social media, which most recently included footage of Ahmaud Arbery’s murder; “It’s the scariest and saddest thing I have ever seen” he told me. My heart ached for Ahmaud, for all who have lost their lives to racist attacks and for all of our children of color who are recognizing the reality and impact of racism  

I will ask my colleagues, neighbors and friends outside of the minority community “Are you having conversations with your children and family overall to ensure each understand the racial divide we are experiencing and how wrong it is? Are you leading by example and teaching your kids and loved ones that you do not stand for racial injustice? Are you taking action to help us? How are you using your voice to fight against racism?”

I know I still have hope, faith and the energy to fight for equality. I know, at this moment, many are feeling defeated and tired of being tired; each needing a lift.

I will ask “Are you lifting those who need you?” Are you fighting for equality? How are you doing so?”

We must stand up against racism in all its forms. Let’s continue to engage, leverage our voices, energy, and power to solve for Equality! All of us play a role, no matter how big or small.