Black Lives Matter Movement During The Pandemic And The New Norm
Friends have asked me how I am holding up (as I have asked them) during these uncertain times…and I would love to share my thoughts and feelings on how these past 16 weeks have been for me, personally.
I will start off by saying that I have become more exhausted, educated, and excited for the future of America in these last 6 weeks since the protests have began, than I have since the shelter in place happened. I began participating in the Sacramento protests, chanting, marching. Filming young protesters demand accountability with passion and pain, witnessing such a diverse group of people come together to stand up against police brutality, systemic racism, and the murdering of innocent black people. I signed many petitions, donated to causes; both local and national, texted/called/emailed representative demanding justice and change. Having one on one in depth conversations with friends on both sides of these issues. Forming new friendships, while letting go of those who are on a different path.
Last night while in the ZOOM gathering via WomenX I found myself inspired and empowered by the over one dozen womyn who participated in the TED Talk video by Heather McGhee viewing/post discussion. Most of them are on the east coast, with a few here on the west, varying in ethnicity and age. The was most inspired by the oldest in the group. She is 81 yrs and was so vivacious, educated, and informative. A white womxn who was very open with the way she recognizes her white privilege (since the 1990s), sharing with us how she utilizes it to support/take action for the black community and people of color.
Plus, I learned from these ladies, much like I have learned from all whom I’ve talked to just how things are developing for them, changing in their neighborhoods, within their leaders. The positive changes, and the ongoing hurdles. We all agreed on how exhausted we are in our efforts — and that we embrace the exhaustion. We are all aware that this is just the beginning. This movement was a long time coming, and we have such a long way to go. And yet SO much has changed in such a short time! Police officers being removed from public schools, and immunity clauses being taken out of police contracts. Statues representing slavery and colonizing have been torn down and removed all across the world. Choke holds being removed/prohibited by police officers. No knock warrants now banned in Lousiana after the murder of Breonna Taylor by police officers. Living proof that when the world unites over a common cause, we can move mountains. For the first time in my existence I took part in and witnessed all 50 U.S. states and several countries protesting simultaneously against police brutality. THIS.IS.MONUMENTAL.
And yes, the uncertainty with COVID-19 is still first and foremost as it directly effects our communities, our economy, our mental health, our relationships… our very futures. Access to the entire world is overwhelming, and without proper filters in place can drive you insane. I recently stopped driving for Lyft (3 years this past May) due to the raging comeback of Coronavirus cases, and the increase in people who are against wearing masks in public. In my opinion, this is why the virus will stick around in the U.S. for a very long time — because we are so divided as a Nation that we all cannot even agree on whether the virus exists, let alone believe it is an actual deadly virus (some still believe it is just another flu). My mind grapes are blown over seeing videos of people who engage in physical altercations because they refuse to wear masks in grocery stores; throwing their groceries onto the floor, screaming obscenities. Elderly man pushing his way past store clerks — PHYSICALLY TOUCHING THEM to make his point. While other countries like Canada and New Zealand worked together and were able to control the number of cases in a matter of a few months.
At home, I have had my bouts of depression because I miss seeing loved ones. My love language is physical contact; hugs, kisses, cuddling. I have cried myself to sleep on many nights wondering how long this will go on. My daughter became ill for two weeks from sheer stress which caused her weight loss and sleepless nights. She was in pain most days. We planned a trip to Disney World in Florida — we make it a yearly tradition in either Anaheim, CA or Orlando, Fl because we both love Disneyland. But, with things being so up in the air, we question trips to just the ocean or river. We used to go out to eat at our favorite restaurants at least twice week, and movie nights about once a week. That has all changed to eating at home and Netflix/Disney+ nights.
In looking on the positive side, I am very grateful to be living back with my daughter. We are healthy, covid-free, we can pay our bills and keep plenty of food and water stocked. Gym workouts were traded for Wii fitness workouts and walks around our neighborhood. In person meet ups are ZOOM gatherings and FB video chats now.
And I often wonder how long will this be the normal for our society…and how much longer before I can hug someone again. But, when that time comes? You know I will be hugging folks till my arms fall off. ❤
