Posts by author
Richelle Ryan
when white people can cherry-pick aspects of blackness while black people can’t BE black without threats to their humanity
Is it time we stop announcing the “first black person to _____”?
I took another long break from blogging. Here is my explanation for why and why I don’t regret it.
“While mental health issues effect every demographic, I think it is time we admit that a huge part of the psychosis that exists in black urban areas is due to years of physical and mental abuse, oppression, and ultimately, depression of a very special kind.”
“Corn rows, box braids, locs, etc. We’ve seen “ethnic” hairstyles taken for a spin by white people of all kinds. Celebrities, high school students, fashion icons etc. Some find it flattering, others think of it as a swagger jock, but not everyone has the same position on culture appropriation.”
“The best part about the experience was that most outsiders are not invited to attend…The Navajo people have often been wounded by outsiders, so it is important to be very intentional about establishing positive relationships, built on genuine appreciation and respect.”
“Being an ally for justice is something people of color want from white people, but it requires continual learning and willingness to be in uncomfortable situations and conversations. Growth is uncomfortable. “
“But there is history here and this kind of prejudice goes back to the 1970’s, when the revolution began. That is, the Black Revolution and the birth of the Black Panther Party.”
“So much of what we learn about each other is driven by what the media feeds us…Our future is created by intention.”
Just because it feels exclusive, doesn’t mean you have to be offended.