Community Updates

We’re Standing With Black Lives

Throughout our country’s history, protesting has been a means to amplify the voices of the oppressed and marginalized. At Stand Up America, we’ve been champions of protest and organizing since our inception. Now, we’re standing with those who are marching in the streets for the freedoms and privileges that so many of us take for granted, for justice for George Floyd and others, and for the very lives of Black Americans. 

Let us be clear: Black lives matter. George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and far too many other Black people should still be alive and with us today. We stand in solidarity with the Black community and our grassroots partners on the ground fighting for Black lives and futures. 

Now is the time for us to stand up as allies and speak out against the violence that is being waged against Black Americans by the police and by a rigged system. We cannot look away from the injustices that are happening, have been happening, and will continue to happen if we don’t take action now. And we must take action. Words without deeds attached are meaningless, now more than ever. 

We understand that protesting might not be the right action for you to take at this time, whether due to your mobility or your concerns over COVID-19. There are many other ways to help in this current moment. Here are some ideas to get you started:  

EDUCATE YOURSELF

Those who do not study history are doomed to repeat it. There are many resources available for you to learn more about the centuries of systemic racism in our country and its harmful and often deadly effects on the Black community. This might be an uncomfortable and difficult process, but it’s up to all of us to better understand American racism, past and present, so that we can be a part of building a better future. 

Not sure where to start? Try this collection of resources specifically curated for white allies:

SIGN A PETITION TO DEMAND JUSTICE FOR GEORGE FLOYD

Despite video evidence and a massive nationwide outcry, three out of four of the Minneapolis police officers responsible for George Floyd’s death still walk free. This is unconscionable. Sign Color of Change’s petition demanding that Attorney General Keith Ellison immediately charge all four officers with murder. 

DONATE TO ORGANIZATIONS FIGHTING RACISM

In this time of economic upheaval, those of us who still have jobs or money in our pockets should give generously to those already on the ground, doing the work. Want to make sure your dollars go farther? Click here to split your donation between organizations that are dedicated to fighting for Black lives.

Being an activist and an ally is the necessary work for each and every one of us. These suggestions are a launching point for a lifelong commitment to learning and taking action in ways that help move our country forward.