Black Lives Matter needs us – here’s how we can help

By Faith Richardson

What is Black Lives Matter?

Black Lives Matter is a human rights movement that has been operating since 2013, although the fight against racism has been one that black people have been tackling alone for centuries. After the horrific murder of George Floyd on 25 May, it sparked indignation and horror that was long overdue.

This is something that should not be left to the black community to fight, and fix, alone. They need voices of people from every race and background to amplify theirs, particularly those who are in a place of privilege, and whilst it can be uncomfortable to recognise you haven’t done enough in the past, uncomfortability is a catalyst for growth and change, and we want to use that to help to do better. Angela Davis’ now-famous quote “In a racist society, it is not enough to be non-racist, we must be antiracist” should be applied. I have personally been guilty of not speaking up because I’m afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing, but by not speaking up I’ve done an injustice to black people across the world and have inadvertently allowed racism to continue. Now is the time to speak up against racism, to allow black people the room to have their voices heard and to find ways to help.

So, how can we turn this from protests into something life-changing? We’ve put together a list of some of the best places to donate, petitions to sign, educational resources, and businesses you can buy from to help create real change.

Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Renni Eddo-Lodge

Essential reading for everyone interested in understanding more about racism in the UK, this is uncompromising and accessible, with plenty of take-away points to help you live your life in a way that is fairer and kinder.

How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi

As the founding director of the Antiracism Research and Policy Center, How to Be an Antiracist outlines the ways in which you can become part of the solution, rather than part of the problem.

Championing Diversity: this Black History Month, meet 100 creatives inspiring change

The creative community is another area that is predominantly white. This list of 100 black creatives who are creating change is well worth checking out.

Explained: The Racial Wealth Gap 

Looking at how the injustices of historical racism are still contributing to modern-day inequality, this Netflix series covers everything from the housing discrimination to slavery and the impact it’s had on the modern-day racial wealth gap.

Who Killed Malcolm X 

Looking at the mysterious assassination of one of America’s most famous Civil Rights activist, the series follows the search for the truth and justice for his murder.

Adwoa Aboah x Janaya Khan Future Talk Black Lives Matter.

Insightful, helpful and a great conversation to listen to. 

Follow

There are some amazing people and websites online right now sharing information, history, stories and news to help provide education, resources and ways you can help. We’ve also included some amazing accounts who provide help, space and a platform for black folk. Here are some we highly recommend reading, listening to, and/or following:

@blklivesmatter  

@thehistorycorridor  

@das.penman

@Theoutrage 

@restlessnetwork 

@nowhitesaviours 

@ethelsclub

@mahdiwoodard 

@galdemzine 

@laverneco

@blackgirlfest

@ogorchukwuu

@florencegiven 

@theccnyc 

https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk

https://www.ukblackowned.co.uk

Protest

There are a lot of issues that arise from physically protesting during a global pandemic – the Newcastle Black Lives Matter, which was planned for Saturday 6 June, has been moved online to help protect protestors whilst allowing them to show their support. Find out more on Facebook, here. 

Stand Up to Racism UK organise marches to protest against racism in the UK and help to create unity amongst us. The Newcastle section can be found on Facebook if you wish to stay on top of what’s happening in our region, click here.

The Angelou Centre

Based right here in Newcastle, The Angelou Centre is a black-led charity which provides black, Asian, minority ethnic and refugee women with everything from legal advice on immigration and violence, to training, development and employment support.

Wales Bonner

With European and Afro Atlantic approaches to her designs and influenced by everything from musical composition to history, Wales Bonner’s menswear and womenswear are incredible.

BeautyStack

A quick and easy way to book treatments with the best beauty professionals in the UK.

Yard Confectionary

Handmade by its two founders, Yard is a perfect example of hands-on small business. With flavours inspired by Ashley’s Jamaican household, they even work directly with Jamaican cocoa sellers in St. Catherine, Jamaica.