I have lost track on what season and which episode we are at in this continuing four-year+ saga captured and revealed in Us and Them: What it Really Means to Belong (if this is all new to you see Nneka Allen, CFRE, COC, PCC post below where you will find all the links you need to catch up on all that’s transpired until now).
If you have been following the series since February 2023, all that you have seen, read and heard, may have you gripped, disturbed, riled up to act in constructive, and for some in attention-seeking non-constructive ways, and in utter disbelief that all is based on true events and not differing perspectives as some have been claiming and would have you believe.
While the twist and turns may be fascinating as things continue to unfold, for me and many other Black folx, and many others who have felt and tasted the bitterness of backlash and retaliation for voicing the impact of the oppression faced (anti-Black racism and all oppressive systems), the saga is akin to the plot line of ‘The Heroes Journey’ but I call it ‘The Racism Loop’, with its virulent derivative called ‘The anti-Black Racism Loop’. The story line is formulaic in its construction because what’s next is fully anticipated but the spin it will take leaves one gripped and on edge waiting for the next episode to drop. And drop it did.
So where are we at in this saga four years and counting? It’s the double down, retaliatory season. Stay tuned because there is surely more to come, and I know this how? We are in mid-loop of this struggle and there is too much riding on the result. Many of us are ready and bracing for this fight, and I know this how? We are in community, acting in solidarity.
I leave you with this quote from my respected, direct, courageous, truth-telling, justice-seeking, love-speaking sister Nneka:
“In the fight for racial justice, it is not enough for only the victim to speak up about experiences of racism. Activism in isolation is dangerous. We need many voices. We need co-conspirators, people who will defy powerful people and deliver clear messages rejecting racist behaviour. We cannot resist the power of whiteness alone and maintain our well-being. However, with a community of people committed to racial liberation, health-filled progress can be made. I am grateful to the Co-Conspirators (everyone tagged on this post) and all 1,840 people who signed our petition, and those who spoke out or posted their support on social media. You share the weight of this struggle with me, Mide and Múthoní Karíukí HBSc, MPNL, CFRE. Your solidarity is priceless and will be forever honoured.”
Read the Cease & Desist Letter Weaponizing Fear to Force Silence