This evening, in a group chat, I shared the following thoughts and emotions:
The response we’re witnessing after Helene feels all too familiar. It reminds me of the energy and mobilization that came after the killing of George Floyd, at the height of the Black Lives Matter movement. In those moments, people were activated and ready to take action. It’s always that way when the cameras are present and the funds are flowing. But as soon as the attention fades, too often people return to business as usual, losing sight of what it really means to support communities different from their own.
I want to acknowledge that organizations like RSAA - Reparations Stakeholder Authority of Asheville and others have been committed to this work from the very beginning, long before the spotlight was on. I am, however, grateful for the organizations and individuals now stepping in to offer their support and manpower. My hope is that because this storm impacted so many people—regardless of gender, class, race, religion, sexuality, or background—more folks will finally recognize why this work is crucial.
Even with all the resources coming in, it’s still not enough to reach everyone affected. There are still people that are left behind, falling through the cracks. And there’s still this misconception that supporting Black people means focusing solely on low-income housing in the city, as if our community doesn’t exist beyond those areas. Our goal isn’t just about immediate relief; it's about a long-term rebuild.
I urge each of us to continue directing resources into grassroots organizations that are truly on the ground, not just those with the most media presence. Let’s also lean into educating people on the changes in voting processes. How do we mobilize voters despite the challenges of displacement? How do we ensure that misinformation about FEMA’s response or other issues doesn’t discourage people from voting? Most importantly, how do we make sure that those who lost everything in this storm are still able to vote in this upcoming election?
My thoughts have been filled with many many emotions. I am torn between the love and joy I feel by people joining forces and the reality that it always seems to take tragedy hitting before people recognize or care about the cries and needs of others. Will this support continue for organizations like mine? Will we still be able to support those most impacted even after we rebuild WNC? Will we finally start investing in Black and Brown communities longterm?
Pictured is the place I call home days after Helene's visit.
#AshevilleStrong