Some days it feels like the world is collapsing all around us. Every day we wake up, we read and hear about more strife, more chaos, more violence. It takes a toll on every single one of us.
Today marks the 11th day of protests against brutality toward Black Americans in police custody. These protests, now taking place across all fifty states and in countries around the world, are a direct response to the violent deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbury, and countless others.
It’s appalling that we are still fighting for racial equality, equity, and justice in 2020. “Black Lives Matter” is not a controversial statement – it’s a fact.
At Blast PR, we’re doing a lot of listening, reflecting, sharing resources, and focusing on the fight against institutionalized and systemic racism in our communities and across the nation. We are aware that our industry isn’t as diverse as it should be, and that has to change.
We stand in solidarity against acts of racism. We are outraged and saddened by our current events. We will work hard to do our part to learn about how we can help, educate those around us, and impact real change as an agency. Stay tuned for the efforts we’ve been put in motion!
To begin, we would like to share a list of resources that Blasters have found useful over the past week. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it’s a first step toward doing our best to help be anti-racist and move this country forward together.
Protest and Petition
Several people are taking direct action against police brutality by attending protests, signing petitions, and contacting their local officials.
- Map of Protests Around The World
- Tips for Protestors
- Sign Petitions
- Text or Call Your Local Officials
- Register to Vote
Educate Yourself and Others
It’s important that we recognize and understand the institutionalized and systemic racism in our society. It’s the responsibility of non-black people to educate themselves about their own role in racial inequality and learn how to adjust accordingly in the future.
- Black Lives Matter Website
- Systemic Racism Explained
- Anti-Racism for Beginners
- How to Talk to Family Members About Current Events
Donate Money and Resources
If you are able, there are many causes that need donations right now. Those unable to donate can still help, simply by watching a video created to offer people a way to financially contribute 100% of the advertisement revenue.
Uplift Black Businesses, Art and History
There are so many talented black artists and business owners who don’t get the shine they deserve. Black businesses have historically had a harder time accessing loans. There’s never been a better time to put your money where your mouth is. If you don’t have money to spend right now, you can always share a social media post or use your voice to advocate and promote black businesses and movements.
- Support Black Businesses
- Support Black-Owned Bookstores
- Support Black Artists
- Support Black Eateries
- Black History Month Library
Prioritize Your Mental Health
Our Leadership Team has extended our agency a mental health day this week to decompress, process, recharge, and stay healthy. We are lucky to work for a company that prioritizes mental health, but we realize not everybody has this option. Below is a list of mental health resources available online.
“It’s a privilege to educate yourself about racism instead of experiencing it.” – Sir John, Artist.
