How the LatinX Community can Support Black Lives Matter

I wrote this article after the brutal killing of George Floyd in May of 2020. I was hesitant to share it because I know it is not perfect. The truth is this article can never be perfect because I am still growing and learning about how to support the Black community. However, I still feel it is important to share this article and start conversations and dialog so that we can truly make progress towards change.

 In 2020 several events highlighted the injustices that Black people in the United States have been suffering for centuries. These events have once again reminded me that I must do more for the Black community. As I watched the videos, the news and many posts from my friends on social media, what caught my attention was a photo shared by a friend that said “Mi Lucha es tu Lucha,” “My fight is your fight.” I also saw many posts in spanish targeting spanish speaking family and friends about racism.

Growing up in a Latinx household and neighborhood I unfortunately have heard racist things said about the black community. My immediate family members always taught me that racism was wrong but we didn’t talk much about race. It is true that racism isn’t just found in America but also in Mexico and in many LatinX communities.  

I am no expert on how the LatinX community can support the Black community but I can share what I have learned so far. One of the most important lessons I have ever been taught about learning about diversity, equity and inclusion is that you never stop learning. One of my mentors mentioned this to me and although it seems obvious she instilled in me the desire to seek out as much information as possible. Nobody is an expert on all diversity and social justice issues. 

Another lesson I have learned is to highlight the Afro-Latinx community. Sadly there is racism even within the Latinx community. It has been highlighted by the many white skinned, blue eyed Latinx actors who are the stars of Novelas and on Telemundo. Let’s change this by highlighting the Afro-Latinx community.

Last but not least we need to call out our tias, tios and others around us who use inappropriate and racist language and actions. Instead of being silent we must speak up if we hear racially-insensitive language from anyone around us. I also commit to educating my daughters about the true racist history of this country so that history does not repeat itself.  Overcoming years of racism will not happen overnight but at least I can commit to change. 

Below are just a few books and resources I recommend to continue learning.