The country is shook.

Since the death of George Floyd, protests have exploded around the globe. This moment feels different than those before. Just as painful, weighty, and draining – we’re still tired – but we’re fighting for change and we have a huge coalition behind us. This time when I say “we” it doesn’t just include black activists. It is the work of everyone who has chosen to live in an anti-racist society. It’s like looking at a diamond and realizing it doesn’t just shine, but there are iridescent bits of color all through out it. We are working together now to stop racism, like some of the greatest moments in history – like Selma. And we wont stop.

I think when we have these movements we need to educate people or the right wing media will assign new meaning to our word and actions. So what do you mean by “Black Lives Matter?” What would it mean to “defund the police?” What does Christopher Columbus or confederate statues have to do with dismantling systematic racism? What is “systematic racism?” I assure you that there are people around you too afraid to ask.

Everyone has their own sword in the fight to slay the dragon we call white supremacy. The young and healthy are out in the street. (At least they think they’re healthy. I desperately urge them to get Co-vid 19 tests.) Some folks’ sword may be an art. Art can explain these controversial concepts in a way that others can easily digest. Some of you are teachers. We need you. Racism is the offspring of fear and ignorance. The authors write, the preachers preach, and you do what you do to combat systematic racism.

As you are building your anti-racist toolkit, contact me at CEO@ReclaimArts.org if you would like to schedule a play or an arts program, a speaker or if you want to join our anti-racist book club. Lets build a better world!

Whatever your sword is, use it. It’s time for all of us to work together to build a better world. Many look out their windows and see an apocalypse on the horizon, but truly, it’s just a rebirth. This is a renaissance. #Renaissance2020