Thank you for this, Ryan. I think the best thing we can do, which is what I’m doing, is to be honest and vulnerable. We always associate white supremacy with the extremes — KKK, violence, overt attacks on BIPOC. But it’s so insidious and ingrained in our culture that we don’t even know it. I think about all the times I’ve said “good” and “bad” neighborhoods, which I’ve learned is just coded language for white and black neighborhoods.

While we can’t control what has been ingrained in us, we can, as adults, unpack and dismantle it. And that’s what I’m trying to do in my own life and the white spaces I’m able to navigate. I’m not looking for approval from Black people — they’re exhausted and are trying to just get through their day. I don’t need to add to their burden — I need to subtract from it. I’m hoping I can just show up and be a better person each day and risk losing my privilege if that’s the case.

I’m using #blackouttuesday to educate myself more about the prison system, racism, and historical accounts I may not be as well versed in but should be. I’m also not posting on Medium today because I want Black voices elevated in the algorithm.

As an aside, I’m watching the documentary “13th” on Netflix and it’s pretty amazing. I recommend it.

I’m so grateful to you for being an educator. The work you do is selfless and tireless so fist pump to you :)

Warmly, f.