AMPLIFY
‘In the end,we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.’ ~ MLK
Martin Luther King messages are significantly profound and never so vital as they are right now. As we observe the unrest within our world and the discomfort so many are experiencing, the only way I can see moving forward is together. I have always felt I treated others fairly on an individual level. However, as I read and learn more about ally ship, I am sadly awakened to the many moments when I did not ‘stand with for the long haul’ or follow through to take community action to promote unity and equity. I often speak up regarding injustices, but I can sadly reflect on moments when I should have, and could have done more. I must acknowledge my lack of judgment and inaction in my prior self. However, I must learn, grow, and move forward collaboratively with allies to ensure I not only bear witness but actively and relentlessly engage in conversations of change.
What does holding ourselves accountable look like? I would suggest the SELF method to raise awareness of the bias we inherently bring to each and every situation:
- Adopt slow think to truly observe the situation without assumptions
- Employ empathy
- Learn, Learn, Learn
- Find and share the facts to foster informed dialogue and future change.
Grateful for MLK, such timeless reverie in his speeches should be required reading to ensure this dream will be a reality in 2021.
What will you commit to CHANGE, each and every day?
