What Now?

Hello friends,

I hope that today's newsletter will serve as both affirmation and a call to action. A recognition of the moment we're in and a glimmer of light about what could be next.

Like many of you I've been in a bit of a funk after the US election results (and yes, the ramifications are global).

I've felt less trust and more wariness, and my emotions about racism are closer to the surface. That is valid, and how you choose to process and handle that is very much on your timeline and nobody else's.

Of course, I wasn't surprised by the result, and if you were, especially if you're racialised as white*, please let that be a signal to you to listen more to the people who've been saying for years that this was coming and that the fallout will extend far beyond a four-year term. Find those people, follow them, listen to them and compensate them for the education you'll get. (And if that includes upgrading your subscription to this newsletter, thank you very much, because that's how I can keep doing the work.)

Just over a week ago, I wrote Today We Cry, Tomorrow We Rise. And while the tears may not yet be dry, I'm starting to think about the rising part, as we all will at some point.

About what's next.

Again, this won't look the same for everyone. I understand the feelings of the people who feel they've been shouting into the void and asking for their humanity to be recognised. I'd by lying if I said I hadn't had those moments, too.

I've been inspired by my Black and Global Majority siblings, and my siblings facing oppression who are gathering themselves and their communities to push back against the tide of bigotry and right-wing sentiment. And by the white folx who are calling in their people to make meaningful change.

And I've been thinking about what it means to be a good ancestor. For me, it means continuing to work for an equal future I may never see or experience, knowing that my descendants and my human family will benefit.

Practically, it means continuing to publish this newsletter, continuing to co-create the SHHARE anti-racism community, continuing to help others get their voices heard, shining a light on what's often hidden about racism, and being open and curious about the things I don't yet know and about where this journey may lead me.

What does it mean for you?

Thanks for reading my perspective,

Sharon

*Race isn't real, but racism definitely is.

Note: poll feedback is private - if you’re happy to share your thoughts in public, then please also leave a comment.

I am an anti-racism educator and activist, the author of “I’m Tired of Racism”, and co-host of The Introvert Sisters podcast.

© Sharon Hurley Hall, 2024. All Rights Reserved. This newsletter is published on beehiiv (affiliate link).