This month has found us outraged, humbled, and trying to engage more than ever before in the support of the fight against systemic racism and highly targeted police brutality in the US. This instalment of The Way prioritises shedding light on some of the issues People of Colour (Black People in particular) in America have to face every day and had had to battle for way too long.
Also in this edition, we share an update on the digital product we’ve been working on, Workese, pieces of content that sparked our interest, and our office Spotify playlist for May. We hope The Way gives you insight, brings you joy, and inspires reflection.
Childish Gamino and SZA in This Is America
We’ve agreed that this format — opening with a song — is quite enjoyable, so here is Childish Gambino’s This is America. Apart from this record, which touches on very pressing earthly matters, this month we had 0.00 on repeat, finding the intro to Glover’s new album 3.15.20 fully out of this world! Our monthly office playlist is linked below, check it out!
Childish Gambino • This Is America • 2018
#BlackLivesMatter & Protests Against Police Brutality in the US
Protests have erupted across the United States over racism and police brutality, shining a light on the dark side of America and the deep-rooted systemic racism that needs to be fought against.
michelleobama: Like so many of you, I’m pained by these recent tragedies. And I’m exhausted by a heartbreak that never seems to stop. Right now it’s George, Breonna, and Ahmaud. Before that it was Eric, Sandra, and Michael. It just goes on, and on, and on. Race and racism is a reality that so many of us grow up learning to just deal with. But if we ever hope to move past it, it can’t just be on people of color to deal with it. It’s up to all of us — Black, white, everyone — no matter how well-meaning we think we might be, to do the honest, uncomfortable work of rooting it out. It starts with self-examination and listening to those whose lives are different from our own. It ends with justice, compassion, and empathy that manifests in our lives and on our streets. I pray we all have the strength for that journey, just as I pray for the souls and the families of those who were taken from us. Artwork: @nikkolas_smith
You can show your support by educating yourself and others on how common police brutality in the US is and what it’s rooted in. Learn how systemic racism continues to target and oppress members of communities of colour (Black people in particular), limiting their freedoms and access to equal opportunity. What changes can you influence in your family, group of friends, local community?
pfpicardi: Receiving good and productive questions from white people I care about who want to say the right thing. For your consideration: 1. Calling out other white folks (or brands) for not saying anything can often read like a performance, especially if you haven’t been vocal in the past. Let’s be honest, posting on the Internet or hitting unfollow is easier than having direct, tough conversations with our families and our peers. Now is the time for white folks to do this work; this part isn’t our fight to opt out of. We need to hold our own accountable. 2. The use of the phrase “people of color” is inadequate when we are witnessing protests that speak specifically to injustices faced by Black people. So say Black if you mean Black (and capitalize the B). 3. Saying “I can’t believe this!” exposes ignorance about the people around you. Ask yourself why this is a surprise, and stay curious about historical instances of injustice. 4. Calling for an end to racism is one thing, but specificity helps: Decrying police brutality and understanding why this is a systemic issue is essential. 5. Urging people to vote for Biden or blaming Trump misses the point. Racism has thrived no matter who the President, the mayor, or the governor. The system is the problem, and people are demanding accountability and answers from elected officials who are rarely vocal about police reform. Plus, when it comes time to vote, the last people who need to be told to do so are complete strangers. Call your friends and family instead. 6. Your statement of support or solidarity with the protesters is not an “endorsement of violence.” Your support is an endorsement of the rights of others to utilize free speech. Additionally, you don’t have to say anything about “looting” while speaking up. In fact, centering such things is a distraction that misses this point: We can’t say Black Lives Matter in one breath while fearing for property and goods out of another. 7. Unsure of what to say? Halt your lifestyle content and amplify Black voices. Post links to bail funds. Screenshot your donations and ask others to match your contributions. Above all, don’t be afraid to say #BlackLivesMatter.
Consider donating, for example via the National Bail Fund Network or to one of the organisations listed in this piece by It’s Nice That, if your situation allows for it.
It’s what we’ve been working on these past few weeks, an official launch is scheduled for mid-June, so stay tuned and subscribe to our newsletter or via Product Hunt!
The Way will come out every month, serving as an outlet to share with you what we’ve been up to, what made us go aha, aww, or oh. You can expect short personal updates, Q&As with people we admire, some commentary on current issues, advice, as well as lists, lists, and more lists of our favourite things.
