Fifteen Percent Pledge’s Post

There is a quote from this article "a river of hate" which, while it may still ring true of individuals today as it did in 1963, there exists another symptomatic factor which we cannot ignore. What differs today, which did not exist in 1963 are the effects of post-pandemic COVID-19 syndrome. That syndrome of anxiety and depression which exist today was not present in 1963. We must therefore also consider a nation of people who are still suffering from grief and depression from lost loved ones, job losses, financial insecurities all compounded by the pandemic. For many, post-pandemic anxiety and depressive symptoms can be compounded and are still quite prevalent especially in specific populations of people, those who are single, unmarried and of low-income or experiencing financial and child-care difficulties. "Continuing support for Americans struggling the most could still help turn the tide. “Addressing stressors, such as job loss, challenges accessing childcare, and difficulties paying rent, will help to improve population mental health and reduce inequities that have deepened during the pandemic,” Ettman says." Source: https://lnkd.in/eVPA-3Zv #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealthawareness #childcaresupport #communitybuilding #wellbeing #incomeinequality

Memorial Day is one of the most important days we recognize as citizens of the United States of America. This quote by Harry S. Truman helps us understand that it is our duty to reflect on and express our gratitude for the service of those who have fought to protect our rights and freedoms. Many individuals have given their lives to enshrine the daily comforts and feelings of happiness we are able to enjoy, and we should never take this for granted. Originally, this day celebrated the end of the Civil War, but it now acts as a solemn reminder of all that we have fought for as a nation throughout our proud history: freedom, liberty, democracy, and fairness. Pausing regular life to remember the sacrifices of those who came before and celebrating all that we have yet to do as a great nation is one small way to show our understanding of the complex and painful histories we represent as a nation. When so much of the world is experiencing so much grief, we owe it to ourselves to reflect on our own past and all that we have worked together to protect and provide for the citizens of the United States. This Memorial Day, as we enjoy the beginning of summer, let us also solemnly consider our ongoing responsibility to uphold and fight for those values that comprise this beautiful country: freedom, fairness, and equality for all. #memorialday #freedom #equalityforall

#TheCaseForReparations has been made over and over again. The evidence is abundant and clear. #VoluntaryBlindness, #SelectiveIgnorance, and #ColorBlindness are convenient cloaking devices when it comes to facing certain truths regarding American history and its systemic treatment of the Black race—descendants of American #Slavery. I encourage all of our brothers and sisters to engage in dialogue on this important issue whether they be for or against. There are organizations near and far that are hosting discussions and calls to action as well. There are books and videos. Don’t be shy. Consider this if you will… American taxpayers give billions annually in aid and arms around the world to tragic causes for which it claims to have no responsibility. Our American daily lives go on casually without hardly an inconvenience. Yet when it comes to #Reparations for African descendants of American chattel slavery, you know the hundreds of millions of Africans held in human bondage, insured as property by still existing financial institutions, recognized constitutionally as 3/4th a human being, the ones who endured hundreds of years of forced labor that American economic superiority stands upon, heads get light, stomachs uneasy, and folks start checking the time at the thought of justice being served finally. To disagree is one thing. To dismiss or worse, attack people for standing up for themselves is cruel…and sadly usual. I believe we can evolve as a human species to become better than our past. But not if we keep the same historical behaviors. And not if the seeds of wickedness are sown upon the heads of our children. (African proverb) Have a great day. Peace!!✌🏾 ☮️

About major financial REPARATIONS for American descendants of stolen and sold Africans. The issues of reparations for ill-gotten gains that include human trafficking should have been on top of the list of any political discussions. Instead, powerful politicians and their donors threaten those who would mention the “nasty word”. After WWII, nobody objected to rebuild Germany, a form of reparation, even though Nazi Germany had murdered millions of Jews and others because of their hatred of diversity. Instead of paying reparations, descendants of European American human traffickers and their accomplices have gone on the offensive by attacking activities like DEI that had shown some promise, however small, to rectify the consequences of repeated abuses. There are words to describe the amorality of these reactionary movements couched as constitutionally driven.

The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, also known as the National Lynching Memorial, stands as a stark reminder of the racial terrorism that once plagued the United States. Located in Montgomery, Alabama, the memorial is a testament to the 4,400 Black people who were killed in racial terror lynchings between 1877 and 1950. The memorial's location, overlooking the city's Confederate statues, symbolizes the deep-rooted racial divide that still persists in our society. It serves as a call to action for social justice, urging us to confront the legacy of slavery and the systemic racism that has shaped our nation's history. The memorial's exhibits explore the history of lynching as a tool of oppression and control over Black Americans, a legacy that continues to impact our society today. The spilling of innocent blood is a reminder of the shameful history of racial terror, perpetuated by law enforcement and elected officials. George Wallace, once a segregationist governor, serves as a reminder of the potential for change. After a change of heart, he sought forgiveness from the Black community, acknowledging his role in perpetuating racial hatred. However, the question remains: did he challenge the white power structure to change? As we reflect on the legacy of lynching, we must ask ourselves: have we truly repented and taken steps to correct the systemic issues that continue to plague our society? The memorial's message is clear: we must remember the past to ensure a better future. What are your thoughts on the role of the white church and community in ending the legacy of lynching? How can we ensure that the lessons of the past are not lost in the present? #lynchingmemorial #racialjustice #socialjustice #georgewallace

Replacing Confederate monuments with statues of civil rights activists allows communities to correct the historical narrative by honoring those who fought for equality and justice rather than those who defended slavery and white supremacy. Confederate monuments were often erected during the Jim Crow era as symbols of resistance to racial equality, and their presence continues to perpetuate the legacy of racism and oppression. By replacing them with monuments to civil rights activists, society can celebrate the progress made towards justice and inspire future generations to continue that work. John Lewis symbolizes the ongoing struggle for civil rights and human dignity. Honoring him acknowledges the contributions of Black Americans and other marginalized groups in building the nation. Replacing Confederate monuments with those of civil rights leaders promotes healing and reconciliation. It sends a powerful message that the community is committed to moving forward, united by shared values of equality and justice rather than division and hate. This transformation of public spaces can help to create environments where all citizens feel respected and valued.

No matter who else is surprised and appalled by the "race" riots across the UK, Black and Brown people are not surprised, and many are likely terrified. We know that racism is rife in Britain and have experiences every day that prove it again and again. (I am not there right now but have 15 years' worth of racism stories I could tell.) And we know that there are many who deliberately foment fear to make it worse (Farage et al to name just a few). We have experienced racism even as others are denying it (sometimes to our faces). And Black and Brown people in the UK will feel even less safe than usual while this is happening. Because the people who hate those with our identity don't usually ask questions before they commit violence. Allies and advocates, how are you showing up in this moment? How are you protecting the emotional wellbeing of your Global Majority friends and colleagues? How are you being a buffer against racism? And what more could you do?

This Memorial Day, as we reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served our nation, a poignant message from Ryan Holiday reminds us of the profound commitments made by our Founding Fathers—pledges of "life, fortune, and sacred honor" for principles they held dear. 📜✨ In our law practice at Levinson and Stefani Injury Lawyers, we are driven by a similar pledge to uphold the rule of law and defend the rights of those who may feel overpowered by formidable adversaries. Our clients often stand against some of the most powerful entities, backed by immense resources and influence. Yet, our commitment remains unwavering—to ensure justice is accessible to all, not just the privileged few. ⚖️👥 The Daily Stoic challenges us to consider what we are fighting for and the costs of our commitment. For us, it is clear: we fight for justice, for accountability, and for the protection of individual rights within our courts. This fight requires more than mere words—it demands action, dedication, and sometimes, sacrifices akin to those honored today. 🛡️💪 On this day of remembrance, let's honor the legacy of those who have fought and died by committing ourselves to fight for what is right and just. Let's remember that true honor lies not only in standing up for our beliefs but in enduring the challenges that come with such stands. 🌟🇺🇸 Let us all pledge, this Memorial Day, to continue our fight for a fairer and more just society. In the courtroom and beyond, we remain committed to safeguarding the ideals for which so many have given so much. 🙌🏽🕊️ #MemorialDay #RuleOfLaw #Justice #LegalAdvocacy #FightForJustice #HonorAndDuty #CourageInCourt #StoicPhilosophy #DailyStoic

Today marks 4 years since the death of George Floyd. His legacy continues to ignite a call for justice and equality. Today, the world unites to honour his life, amplify marginalised voices, and challenge systemic racism. Let's demand accountability, educate ourselves, and strive for lasting change. Together, we build a future free from discrimination. #GeorgeFloydMemorialDay #BlackLivesMatter #JusticeForGeorgeFloyd #GeorgeFloydGlobalMemorial

Maybe the fundamental question is can black and white Americans thrive together in the same country without black American's having to navigate any degree of (or minimal degrees of) presumptive inferiority? Do these white men believe both can co-exist? I would imagine that these men don’t have experience with managing fear, as a collective. They are scared. They likely see this election, and this moment in our nation’s history, as either supporting their survival or assuring their demise. I guess. What history has shown us is that in the face of this perception (notice I didn’t say reality), those who believe that black people are inferior AND are change adverse in general, react violently and/or by strongly desiring domination over the "threat", by any means necessary. If they see us... 🎯 women us 🎯 brown us 🎯 progressive us, but especially black us... as a threat to their thriving and see this election and the mounting of support for a reimagined America, as a de facto vehicle to usher in their extinction...we are facing a much more insidious concern than simply disliking black people or women. This is why we must usher in a new normal for America. A President Harris administration will position our country well for the sweeping policy changes that will cement and codify what America must become, and finally require America to honor her own constitution. We the people can finally mean WE the people.