This post is for those who want to want to help black protesters but may be overwhelmed by all of the information out there. There are enough think pieces out there, this post is about action. It is just a band-aid, to stop the immediate injustice levied against those who are protesting the brutalization of their community. In the days and week to come I will be sharing other long term changes I will be making in my own consumer habits to further empower the black community.
Bail Out Funds
The overall incarceration system is inherently unfair, particularly to black individuals, who are presumptively innocent but may not have the funds to post bail. These organizations help those individuals, as well as those are currently being detained for exercising their first amendment rights in protest. The Minnesota Freedom Fund stated they have been overwhelmed by donations, so that is why I did not list it below.
- Louisville Community Bail Fund
- Brooklyn Bail Fund
- Atlanta Solidarity Fund
- Colorado Freedom Fund
- National Bail Fund – find your state or community here to support funds locally
- Believers Bail Out – this is an organization I have supported for a few years, their work in the Chicago area is more important than ever. You can also send donations via Venmo and Quickpay, username siratchicago@gmail.com, add BBO in memo.
Legal Support
These organizations provide legal support through education and litigation resources for those protesting. Support them by donating to these organizations.
- NAACP Legal Defense Fund
- Know Your Rights Legal Defense Camp – organization supported by Collin Kaepernick to educate people of color of their legal rights
Non-Monetary Acts of Solidarity
If you don’t have the ability to support the cause financially, use your voice. Sign petitions, make calls. Follow people of color on Instagram, Twitter, absorb what they have to say.
If you have suggestions, please let me know how to help black protesters in these next few days and weeks. This is just a quick guide for those who may be overwhelmed by the information out there.
This is so important. Thank you for sharing. I’ve been working on my own for a few days, but I’m honestly not sure what to say. But something NEEDS to be said. If even one person reads it and thinks twice about systemic racism, something needs to be said.
Absolutely. We must be allies and speak up against an unjust system until changes are made.