avatarMichael Burg, MD (Satire Sommelier) 😬

Summary

The website content details an individual's personal journey from passive non-racism to active anti-racism, including their current feelings of being stuck and seeking input for further action.

Abstract

The author of the content reflects on their transformation from a passive stance of simply not being racist to a proactive pursuit of anti-racism. This journey is outlined in five steps, which include recognizing past inaction, understanding privilege, developing strategies to confront racist behavior, summarizing lessons learned, and engaging in peaceful protest. Despite progress, the author expresses a sense of stagnation and a desire for more effective ways to contribute to anti-racist efforts. They invite readers to share ideas and acknowledge the backlash they've received, which has provided insights into societal attitudes and the challenges ahead in achieving equality.

Opinions

  • The author admits to an initial complacency and silence in the face of racism, recognizing this as inadequate.
  • They advocate for extending privilege to all as a means to improve society.
  • The author has developed a strategy for addressing racist speech and behavior, indicating a commitment to personal growth and evolution.
  • A summary of actionable advice is provided to guide others on becoming actively anti-racist.
  • The author supports peaceful protest, particularly taking a knee during the national anthem, as a means to promote anti-racism, despite facing significant opposition.
  • They express a preference for quiet, behind-the-scenes action but feel compelled to seek more impactful ways to effect change.
  • The author has experienced a deluge of hate in response to their views but remains undeterred, viewing it as an educational experience that highlights the need for continued efforts towards equality.

An I’m-Not-a-Racist’s Journey Toward Anti-Racism

But now what?

Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash

Right up front I’ll confess to feeling a little lost at the moment. I’m asking for input.

On these “pages” I’ve outlined my personal journey from what I once thought was acceptable — “I’m not a racist” — toward my present posture — “I’m learning what it means to be an anti-racist.”

Here’s my journey in five steps. Please bear in mind, I’m keenly aware of still learning, still journeying, and will be for life.

The events in this story happened long ago when I considered myself “not racist.” I was timid, ineffectual and largely silent as racism raged around me.

I speculated about how much better our society would be if everyone was “privileged”, valued and accepted in the ways that I’ve been.

My present approach to expressed racist beliefs.

A summary of what I’ve learned to date.

A broad-ranging piece on peaceful protest to promote anti-racism. This also appeared on Newsbreak, garnering over 280,000 views and hundreds of hate-filled attacks.

Stuck and reaching out

Now I’m further along in my journey but feeling stuck, stymied.

I know that I can continue to speak up in the ways that I have, by writing. I can also influence others one-on-one by speaking up. I continue to read and learn. But I feel the need to do more. That urge is a bit at odds with my nature.

I’m not a very “political” person, preferring to stay out of the spotlight and do what I do person-to-person, quietly and effectively, but behind the scenes.

Hence my feeling of being stuck.

If you have ideas to share with me please do so. I can easily imagine that I’m not the only person who has this dilemma.

Hate

Because of the views I’ve expressed, I’ve been subjected to a hate deluge. This troubles me not at all. Quite the contrary, it’s been educational. I now have better insights into the sentiments harbored by a large percentage of the population. I also have a better understanding of how far we need to go as we struggle toward a society in which all are valued and treated equally.

Racism
Anti Racism
BlackLivesMatter
Equality
Equity
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