“I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.” -Angela Davis
*This post is dedicated to my sister, Keli Rankin
Today, as we celebrate Juneteenth, I am reflecting back on the events of four years ago, during the Summer of 2020, when the world witnessed the video of George Floyd’s murder and Black Lives Matter protests erupted across the country. As the sister of an adopted BIPOC woman, I have always viewed Civil Rights issues in a different light. Growing up alongside my sister, I witnessed firsthand the injustice and cruelty that exists in our society due to the color of one’s skin.
From a young age, I was fiercely protective of my sister as she endured the extreme racism and bigotry that was directed towards her, simply because of the color of her skin. These experiences led me to study African American Women’s Literature in college and engage in activism, rallying for change and justice.
In the aftermath of the events of Summer 2020, I saw a surge of awareness and activism, only to be followed by a sense of complacency and backlash. As we commemorate Juneteenth today, I am reminded of the work that still needs to be done to dismantle white supremacy and systemic racism.
As a white woman, I acknowledge my privilege and the importance of continuing to do the work of anti-racism. I engage in conversations with my partner and actively learn from BIPOC voices, such as Layla Saad, to deepen my understanding and commitment to change.
Today, as we attend a Juneteenth event in Oakland, I recognize that as white allies, we must sit with our discomfort and center the voices and experiences of Black individuals. It is not about us, but about supporting and amplifying the voices of those who have been marginalized for far too long.
In the words of Layla F. Saad, “white silence is violence,” and it is crucial for us to actively challenge and dismantle the systems of oppression that exist. Let us remember that Juneteenth is a celebration of progress and a reminder that there is still much work to be done.
“Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory or an acceptance of the way things are. It’s a celebration of progress. It’s an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible—and there is still so much work to do.” – Barack Obama | 44th President of the United States
May we continue to strive for a more just and equitable society, where all individuals are seen, heard, and valued.
