This week, we at Writer’s Atelier encourage you to take action in Motivational Minute #133 on Writer’s Atelier TV.
So, how can we lift up the voices in our communities that have been ignored or gone unheard until now?
The most obvious choice is to speak with your wallet and donate—to Black Lives Matter, Reclaim the Block, We Need Diverse Books, The Bail Project, or any of a number of other organizations.
You can also donate supplies to protestors like water, snacks, masks, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer. If you or someone you know is attending a protest, wear a mask, socially distance whenever possible, and look out for one another.
And don’t forget about the other ways to speak—sign petitions, then call or email your representatives using one of these templates.
What’s even more important right now is to listen and learn. Young adult author Nic Stone produced a fantastic IGTV series on race, and all episodes are available to watch for free. You can also browse our Antiracist Reading List on Bookshop (affiliate link) if you’re in search of further reading and educating yourself.
Of course, we are a writing studio, so we would also like to encourage you to seek out Black authors in the genres you already read and love. Add diverse characters, stories, and experiences to your bookshelf. Our Motivational Minute pep talker Paige Lavoie recommends A Song Below Water, a YA novel starring Black mermaids, and You Should See Me in a Crown.
For our white readers in particular, call out racism. If a family member or friend is saying something that you know isn’t right, talk to them about it. Tell them it’s not okay. Be willing to have a tough conversation and encourage them to grow.
If all of this information feels overwhelming, bookmark this blog post and come back later. But do come back later.
We must stand together and demand immense changes to the systems that have terrorized Black and marginalized people while masquerading as forces of good and justice.
