The Death of George Floyd

Words fail me. I am beyond heartbroken, angry, disgusted and confused at the undeniable racism in our country. 

A man was killed. Let me repeat that. A man who had blood running through his veins, who had a family, a favorite food, a favorite song—who you could’ve easily passed on the sidewalk or had a passing conversation with about your day or the weather has been killed. 

Because he was black. 

That makes my stomach turn and my heart absolutely sink. And while I am happy that George Floyd and others like is receiving attention this is not anything new. Racism has been around since man figured out how to enslave his fellow man. And Black men and women have been suffering this for years without social media campaigns, video shares etc. This problem did not occur over night. 

Therefore, we should not cease the conversation. Take action. Really. 

Don’t. Please. Don’t just post a beautiful artistic post on your story. 

Do that. 

Spread awareness. 

Read posts written by black men and women who are suffering who are angry. Sit with them in a pain that you’ll never understand do to your privilege—think about that. 

But go beyond a pretty post. 

Engage in the conversation. Actually come up with your own words to say. Call local and state officials. Make your voice be heard. Do not stand for this injustice. For your silence your lack of of action is white silence and that contributes to the problem as much as a knee to a neck. 

Continually talk about this. Despite the fact that it might be uncomfortable or you might offend someone because it’s a ‘difficult topic’. And don’t just talk to your white friends engage with people of color, with African Americans. Hear what they have to say and simply listen. Ask them what they believe you could do. Don’t assume you know how to best help. 

Educate yourselves. 

Educate friends. 

Educate your family. 

Please. 

On what you can do. On the past on the present. Read—anything and everything you can. 

A Child of God has been killed. A beautiful creation that He made. In Him all are equal. 

This must end. 

Listen. Learn. Speak. Act.