Black Lives Matter: What You Can Do To Combat Racism Right Now
As some of you know, I’ve spent more than 20 years working as a mainstream news journalist. I started Fashion and Fandom for myself, really — to give myself an outlet to cover “fun things” for a change, like nerdy fashion and entertainment news. I try to keep things here positive and avoid politics, so I’ve gone back and forth about whether I should say anything about the events that have been unfolding the past week. We’ve all seen the protests that have erupted all over the country (including blocks away from my own apartment) in reaction to the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor , Ahmad Arbery and Tony McDade, who are just the latest in a long line of injustices committed against the Black community. I can’t stay silent. This is too important. And I want all of you readers to know that Fashion and Fandom stands with Black Lives Matter.
Some of you might be wondering what a fashion and entertainment website has to do with any of this and I totally understand that. But when you think about it, fashion and beauty are political. They are platforms of self expression, and they are a reflection of the time and political climate they are from. Both industries have a long way to go when it comes to inclusivity and acknowledging the contributions of Black artists, designers, and creators. It’s important to us here at Fashion and Fandom that we do what we can to help, and that includes using our platform to to share some actionable ideas on how to combat racism. Not everyone can attend a protest or rally and that’s ok. That doesn’t mean you can’t bring about change in other ways. So here’s some ideas on ways you can get involved:
1. Educate yourself and use your knowledge to speak up.
“How to Make this the Turning Point for Real Change” - President Barack Obama
“Use Your Everyday Privilege to Help Others” - HBR
13 Books You Should Read About Black Lives
“Why You Need to Stop Saying ‘All Lives Matter’” — Harpers Bazaar
List of Anti-Racism Resources
Beyond the Hashtag: How to Take Anti-Racist Action in Your Life
More Anti-Racism Resources
2. Donate, if you can afford it.
Black Lives Matter
George Floyd Memorial Fund
The Antiracist Research & Policy Center
The American Civil Liberties Union
3. Support Black-owned fashion brands.
“20 Black-Owned Fashion Brands You Can Supprt Right Now” — Stylecaster
4. Support brands donating to the Black Lives Matter movement.
“34 Brands Taking Action and Donating to Support the Black Lives Matter Movement” — Popsugar
5. Register to vote.
Your elected officials have the power to fight institutionalized racism. I Am Voter is a fantastic resource to register to vote, check your registration status, and get local election reminders.
