Solidarity and Support
It’s a terrible, tumultuous time. I wasn’t sure whether I should keep up with my newsletter, or what I would say if I did. Shopping is really the furthest thing from my mind right now, and I’m sure the same goes for all of you. So in lieu of a regular newsletter, today I’ll just list a few organizations who could use your support. I’ve donated, and, if you haven’t already, I hope you will too.
Reclaim the Block
Reclaim the Block is a coalition that promotes policies that strengthen community-led safety initiatives in Minneapolis neighborhoods. It organizes local leaders and city council members to allocate budgets toward areas that truly promote community health and safety, thereby reducing reliance on police departments.
George Floyd Memorial Fund
Organized by George Floyd’s sister Philonise, the money raised from this fund will go to his family and help cover costs related to his death, including funeral and burial expenses as well as counseling and travel expenses for court-related matters as they continue their fight. The proceeds will also go towards care for his children and their education fund.
Campaign Zero
Campaign Zero provides data-driven policy solutions aimed at ending police brutality and ensuring accountability. The organization calls on local, state, and federal lawmakers to enact effective legislation based on research studies and articles, which cover topics such as broken windows policing, use of force, independent investigations/prosecutions, and community oversight and representation.
Community Justice Exchange
The Community Justice Exchange is a nonprofit that provides grassroots organizations with tools to tackle “multiple drivers of criminalization and incarceration, including money bail, court fees and fines, probation and parole, pretrial detention & supervision, and immigration detention & supervision.” They also host the National Bail Fund Network, where you can find a directory of local protest bail funds organized for cities in every state.
Black Lives Matter
Founded in 2013, the #BlackLivesMatter movement has grown into a global organization with presences in the US, UK, and Canada. Their mission is to combat state-sanctioned abuse, build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities, eradicate white supremacy, and create space for Black imagination and innovation.
In addition to donating, I’d also encourage you to take further action, such as signing petitions, contacting representatives, and educating yourself. May we all continue to fight for a better, more just world.