1. Educate Yourself: Engage in continuous self-education about the history, impact, and dynamics of racism. Read books, articles, and watch documentaries that explore different perspectives on racial issues. Seek out resources created by people from marginalized communities to gain a deeper understanding
2. Racial Designations: Use racial and ethnic designations when applicable to the story at hand or if it's important to share.
3. Listen and Amplify: Make a conscious effort to listen to and uplift the voices of marginalized individuals and communities. Actively seek out their experiences and perspectives, and amplify them through sharing their work, engaging in dialogue, and advocating for their inclusion and representation.
4. Challenge Biases: Reflect on your own biases and prejudices. Engage in self-reflection and examine how racial biases may manifest in your thoughts, words, and actions. Be open to feedback and commit to addressing and unlearning these biases to promote fairness and equality.
5. Clean Up Your Language: Covert racism comes in different versions. Racist phrases or words hiding in what is now interchangeable language are phrased we don’t how they were used in history of such as (warning for uncensored slurs after the jump): “having a pow-wow,” “doctor, lawyer Indian chief,” “low man on the totem pole,” and “my tribe” or “gypsy,” “sold down the river,” “my spirit animal,” “crack the whip,” and more. Racist terms and languages hide in our everyday language.
6. Speak Up: Use your voice and privilege to speak out against racism and injustice. Challenge discriminatory comments, behaviors, and policies whenever you encounter them. Be an advocate for change in your personal and professional spheres, and support initiatives and organizations that are working towards racial equity.
7. Take Action: Move beyond passive support and actively engage in anti-racist actions. This can include donating to organizations fighting racism, participating in peaceful protests, volunteering in your community, or advocating for policy changes that address systemic inequalities. Engage in ongoing efforts to dismantle racist structures and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.
8. Be Mindful: Do your best to be mindful and use the terminology preferred by the person or persons being discussed or talked with.
9. Avoid and Respect: Avoid describing people as exotic or unsual when discussing cultures and narratives that are not yours. Refrain from adopting key signature elements of a culture as yours.
