Another Isolated Incident means there is a pattern to incidents of oppression. Whether it is getting your head tucked into the back of a police car, seat belts provided while taken into custody, or even stopping at Burger King for a meal... this is not unique or isolated. This is us and where we are at as a society.
The Agenda
We are really our worst enemy. Over 400 trans women of color have been killed in the US this year alone. I don't have numbers of trans men or other gender non-conforming people targeted, injured or killed. Much like violence that targets homeless people, undocumented workers, and those enslaved in human trafficking circles, a lot of this data isn't collected or reported.
Most of the ailments of our society aren't counted becuase they don't impact the daily lives of those of us, gay or lesbian or straight. Because I don't see or feel or hear or live these experiences they don't exist. I have to make sure I think of them - represent them - be with them so that they can be real in my daily life, conversations, and social justice work.
As I stood on the city hall grounds in Burlington, Vermont, on June 26, 2015, I found myself happy for the progress and overwhelmed with how much work is left to be done. I want to celebrate and I am also concerned about the organizations that depend on volunteer hours and financial donations. Please know there is a lot of work to do.
Racism, classism, ageism, ableism, sexism, cis-sexism, heterophobia, and internalized homo, bi, and trans phobia are a part of my daily life. This isn't by choice or agenda. This is a reality that I can't forget. Ever.
Outside Source
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Wanna contribute something to this newsletter? Got a resource to share? Email my assistant Teresa at: hellothere@iamsocialjustice.com before the end of the month to be in an upcoming newsletter |
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