The #BlackLivesMatter movement is expanding and deepening across the nation, and spreading around the globe.  This sign, hashtag and rallying cry are filling streets, newsfeeds, imaginations and institutions.  And white-identified folks eager to engage, enraged by injustice, and inspired by the movement are showing up in large numbers and in different ways. As white allies act, and reflect on action, it is key to understand what is being asked for by Black leadership, what is useful, powerful, and what is detrimental. Many brilliant Black organizers have commented on the ways white folks have co-opted or redirected movement energy from #BlackLivesMatter, or distracted from the movement by generating overwhelming media coverage on the “violence” of property destruction.

Today, as millions across the country prepare for a weekend of marches and mobilizations nationwide, we wanted to cross-post this piece by Alicia Garza in The Feminist Wire, to learn from and listen to one of the founders of this movement.

In preparation for our own Millions March in the San Francisco Bay Area, the WNC has created this #BlackLivesMatter mini-zine as a resource to hand out and intervene with other white folks in emergent street mobilizations whose messages and actions are disconnected from, distract from, or whitewash the movement.  Feel free to print, fold, and distribute this resource in your own marches and street mobilizations (use this guide to fold).  Also, check out this resource from SURJ (Showing Up For Racial Justice), about acting up with accountability as white folks. It is time to show up and honor #BlackLivesMatter.

A Herstory of the #BlackLivesMatter Movement by Alicia Garza

And, perhaps more importantly, when Black people cry out in defense of our lives, which are uniquely, systematically, and savagely targeted by the state, we are asking you, our family, to stand with us in affirming Black lives.  Not just all lives. Black lives.  Please do not change the conversation by talking about how your life matters, too. It does, but we need less watered down unity and a more active solidarities with us, Black people, unwaveringly, in defense of our humanity. Our collective futures depend on it. – Alicia Garza