This is how you actively campaign against racist violence

It’s been over three weeks since police officer Derek Chauvin brutally knelt on the neck of African-American George Floyd for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, killing him. This another sad chapter in the history of racist police violence has sparked a historic wave of protest around the world — not only on the streets but also in social media.

Especially the #BlackoutTuesday went viral. The hashtag should be posted together with a black square in the social media feed. The action was invented by Jamila Thomas and Brianna Agyemang, two black executives in the music business. The two women wanted the music industry to stand still for a day on 2 June to draw attention to racism and inequality.

Despite all the good intentions, there was one problem: Because many people added the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter to their posts, which is normally used to share important information and resources, these aids were displaced by black squares. “If you search for #BlackLivesMatter, you won’t find videos, helpful info, resources, and evidence of injustice anymore, but only rows of black pictures,” singer Kehlani said in an Instagram story.

So, honestly, the black squares were completely useless. Besides, this is not the time for symbolic actions or silence. We need to shout out loud against injustice, force politicians to act and initiate reforms. Especially white people, who have more power and privileges, must not remain silent and sleep through this revolution.

We have gathered things that you can do not only today but every day to fight against structural racism.

Go on demos

You feel safe and fit enough? Then you should participate in demonstrations. Of course, there is a certain health risk at the moment because of the Corona pandemic, but if you follow certain safety measures, you can keep this risk as low as possible. We have summarized in a guide on how to demonstrate safely even in times of COVID-19. In addition to this, you can find out from local organizations and associations of black people how you can best support them in their demonstrations.

Donate to bailout fund or support groups

Especially in the USA, demonstrators are arrested all over the country. Many of them do not have enough money to pay for their bail. That is why several donation funds have been set up to help exactly these people and to get them out of prison — especially because of the corona risk. Examples are the Colorado Freedom Fund, Free Them All for Public Health, or the Atlanta Solidarity Fund.

Find out about structural racism, White Privilege, possible reform of the police system, colonialism and the history of oppression of black people

Do you think you don’t know enough about the issues being discussed? Then inform yourself — and do it independently. Don’t ask black people to enlighten you. And make it your business to share reading tips and information sources with other people who want to rely on black people in their social environment.

Reach out to people in politics

Many politicians have contact points where you can write to and draw their attention to grievances. Make it clear what proposals and wishes you have for a better future. The more people who write to politicians with such letters, the greater the pressure to act.

Talk to racist family members about what is going on and point out their problematic views

If you advocate social justice online, you should do the same at home. Don’t stare silently at the floor when family members say something racist or approve of dangerous parties and political decisions. Talk to them. Be the change you want to see in your family. And if even after several discussions, they simply don’t want to see it, you should consider whether they deserve a place in your life at all.

Convince your university or your employer to also stand up against racism and social injustice

While many companies have already taken a stand (and some have overstepped the mark), there are still enough companies and institutions that have remained silent. If you work for such a company or visit such an institution, make sure that they also show solidarity with black people. Even such small steps can have a big impact.

The bottom line is: Whatever you do, be loud! The space that a silent black square takes up can be used much better to support black people effectively.