What a hard week. What a hard year. And how hard to face the realization that this violence is nothing new – technology and activism have just shined a spotlight on it. I like ending my week thinking about the good. It’s rarely a popular or well-read post, but I like reflecting on the positive. That’s hard this week for a lot of us.
And that’s okay. The bad things are not okay. The murders of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile are not okay. The murders of police officers trying to protect a peaceful protest are not okay. But feeling sad about the tragedy or angry about the tragedy – that is okay.
Even among tragedy upon tragedy, there are good things to shine lights on as well. #WordsForChange was created for authors, writers, and readers to help raise funds for #blacklivesmatter funds. Heben Nagatu created a hashtag #CareFreeBlackKids2k16 for some relief. Both of these things are making me smile in a week where there have been a lot of tears.
But, of course, I want to make clear that my tears and my smiles aren’t what’s important. I walk through the world largely trusting in my own safety, both because of my skin color and because of my profession. There is a long, long way to go until everyone enjoys this ability. Let’s try to keep taking care of each other through these hard times.
Alison Doherty 