Black Lives Matter: It’s more than a hashtag.
We kicked off this year with a celebration of Black voices and storytellers, showcasing their continuous contributions to science, music, art, literature, media, fashion, gaming, and many other fields. With #BlackExcellence365, we also highlighted artists like Aundre Larrow (@aundrelarrow) and Gianni Lee (@giannilee).
As the country dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic, Black communities disproportionately fell victim to undue violence and death at the hands of the very institutions that were built to serve them. In May, for eight minutes and 46 seconds, the world watched as George Floyd’s life was snatched from him at the hand, or rather under the knee, of an officer sworn to protect him. In eight minutes and 46 seconds, George Floyd was added to a long list of names that live on through hashtags. In the wake of his brutal murder, the world erupted in protest.
In eight unbearable minutes and 46 horrifying seconds, “Black Lives Matter” had a new meaning. Overnight, the words transformed from a hashtag into something more tangible, something to live by and enact. For many, they represented the beginning of a journey of learning and unlearning—of edification and empathy. For others, they served as the echoed cry of the angry, anguished, and heartbroken. “Black Lives Matter” is more than a movement. It’s a space to mourn the loss of the countless Black men and women who were murdered—like Floyd—for simply being themselves.
We remember and never forget:
Breonna Taylor | George Floyd | Elijah McClain | Rayshard Brooks | Daniel Prude | Tony McDade | David McAtee | Walter Wallace | Kevin Peterson | James Scurlock | Atatiana Jefferson | Aura Rosser | Stephon Clark| Botham Jean | Philando Castille | Alton Sterling | Michelle Cusseaux | Freddie Gray | Janisha Fonville | Eric Garner | Akai Gurley | Gabriella Nevarez | Sandra Bland | Tamir Rice | Michael Brown | Tanisha Anderson | Korryn Gaines | Rekia Boyd | Kayla Moore | Amadou Diallo | Sean Bell | Oscar Grant III | and countless others
#BlackLivesMatter has been trending on Tumblr since May, where it will remain for as long as the community stays engaged. By sharing resources, artwork, and communities we can keep important causes top of mind for us all.
Black Lives Matter Network
Official Petition for Breonna Taylor
Justice for Regis Official Fund
Minneapolis Freedom Bail Fund & Louisville Community Bail Fund
National Bail Fund Network
Brooklyn Community Bail Fund
Northwest Community Bail Fund (Washington State)
Chicago Community Bond Fund
Other ways to donate in support of Black lives and communities
Ethel’s Club - A Black-owned and operated social club offering access to Black therapists and a multitude of creative events for People of Color.
Crisis Text Line - A different approach to crisis intervention, Crisis Text Line makes it easy to get the help you need. Just text 741-741 to chat with someone who is willing to listen and provide you with additional resources.
Shine Text - Black-owned! Sign up to receive cheerful texts and tips every day.
Therapy For Black Girls - A Black-owned directory to help you find Black therapists in your area.
Tips for Organizing/Protesting:
Knowing your rights - ACLU
How To Prepare for a Protest - (Remember to wear a mask!)
Fun Online Communities and Things to Do:
Some of our favorite online communities.
Nerd Culture: @blacknerdproblems, @superheroesincolor
Poetry and Literary Spaces: Cave Canem Literary Balms program for Black poets, Nuyorician Online Open Mic Events, Well-Read Black Girl
Podcasts: Therapy For Black Girls, Strong Black Legends by Netflix’s Strong Black Lead, The Read with Crissle and Kid Fury, The Nod with Eric Eddings and Brittany Luse.
And the best Tumblr posts? Just click right here.
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