Virtual Ways You Can Support Black Lives Matter
Most of us agree that Black Lives Matter is a legitimate call for social justice. Well, all of us except for that weird relative who likes being loud and wrong on Facebook. Now the question is: how can we support the movement without being physically present? So, if you are serious about wanting to help, read on because there are a few ways to help the cause right from your laptop or cellphone.
Donate only to verified accounts.
Giving money is a great way to show support to the various causes of the movement. As with anything else online, it is a good idea to do some research and make sure your precious funds are going to verified organizations. Even in these times, scammers are around so some caution is required.
Listen to people on the ground.
It is exciting being part of a revolution and the urge to help is a powerful one. One of the best ways to do that is to take cues from frontline leaders, especially when they give direction about the correct hashtags to use and how best to amplify the movement in social media.
Follow up with companies that posted a black square after the news cycle.
It’s great that companies are pledging support for Black Lives Matter, but this needs to continue past the current news cycle. Email some of the brands you like and ask them what their long-term plans are to promote diversity and inclusion. The same companies that sell you popping lipstick should be able to give projections for women in leadership positions.
Remember that BLM was started by Black women, so center them in every conversation.
Not to say that it is a popularity contest, but in the interest of avoiding erasure, the names Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi should come up whenever Black Lives Matter is mentioned. In the same way we give credit to everyone in a group project, we need to continue to acknowledge the founders.
Spend your money differently.
Black lives should also matter when they are alive, so this is a good time to buy from Black-owned businesses. Support everyone from producers to artists and designers wherever you can. Giving money to entrepreneurs and feeling good is an unbeatable combination.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but a few pointers on some ways to be a virtual ally. Black Lives Matter continues and as time goes on, it is natural that the way people support and interact with the movement will evolve. This revolution might not always be televised but it is definitely digital.
Written by: Yolisa Qunta