Today, we cannot continue business as usual. Yesterday, the world watched as panic unfurled across our phones and TVs in our nation's Capitol. The immediacy of the danger and shock had us all worried about the longevity of our democracy. Republicans and Democrats alike who believe in justice and the right to peaceful protests stood up yesterday, denouncing the actions of those involved in the events that transpired.
However, the impact was far-reaching and deeper than you might realize. For people of color, this event was another punch in the gut with the knowledge that white privilege continues to get a pass in our country. The imagery of yesterday's events held a stark contrast to the protests of just last year and the memories of previous years. Still fresh in our minds are the Black Lives Matter protests, marches that championed equity and change that were met with brutality, and many arrests. "Riot" is a word often used to criminalize people of color who stand up for their rights. Last year, at the Black Lives Matter protest in DC, the National Guard was deployed during that peaceful protest that lasted several days.
Their calls for justice were met with violence. Yet yesterday, when a mob of primarily white constituents violently stormed the Capitol, they were met with low resistance and few arrests. The National Guard was only called once the Capitol building was breached. The participants in yesterday's events were even framed as protestors, not rioters. You can read more about the difference in response through the link in our bio. The contrast between the two events is telling.
As the dust settles and the count of electoral votes finished in the early morning, there is a community of people whose hearts are still aching with the continuous racism they have to face every day. We urge you to make sure your cries for equity were not left in 2020 as the fight against racism continues. How will you discuss these events with your family and friends? Our @GirlScoutsWW Board member, @erinin2016, compiled a list of resources on her Facebook page to help check them out via the link in our bio.
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