Race relations in the United States are powder kegs with short fuses. And the police shootings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile—followed by retributory violence across the country—not only sparked those fuses but engulfed the country in a reactionary debate. It’s up to concerned citizens like you to guide us out of this firestorm and into a brighter future.
Here’s your checklist:
Create a professional action committee.
You may not have the direct line to the President, but you do have professional contacts. How often have you used those networks that you’ve worked so hard to establish? Chances are, your colleagues are just as eager to get involved as you are. So contact them. Organize a meeting time and establish an agenda. Discuss national issues and then, break those down to apply within your community. Arm yourself with diverse perspectives and resources.
Attend your local commissioner meetings.
Whenever controversies shake public complacency, individuals take to social media to voice their opinions. And amidst the online debates, a general lack of direction pervades our online spaces. Meanwhile, citizen participation in local government is abysmal.
The National Research Center found that 19 percent of U.S. citizens contact their local elected officials over a calendar year. Among that number, only 25 percent actually make the effort to attend public meetings.
So get off the sidelines, learn the issues, and hold your elected officials accountable. Brainstorm improvement with creative thinking—such as a town hall with the local police department. Use your voice on a forum where you’ll be heard and listened to.
Volunteer your time in a different neighborhood.
Police brutality, racism, stereotypes, and law enforcement: these are words that can elicit strong feelings from Americans. No matter how the mainstream media polarizes these topics, all are American issues―not just the burdens of a single group. One way to grow outside of your comfort zone is by volunteering your time. Research by the United Nations has shown that volunteering can build powerful bridges of solidarity.
The answer is clear: Give your time. You’ve got nothing to lose, but everything to gain.
Connect with faith-based institutions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 33 percent of all citizens flocked to religious organizations for their volunteering last year—and for good reason. Churches, mosques, and temples tap the pulse of communities to meet needs. So whether you’re religious or not, use the established networks of your faith-based institutions. You could find ample service opportunities.
But don’t just stop there—go beyond your denomination. Visit an organization that you’ve never been to before. You could not only help impact the less fortunate but broaden your perspective, as well.
Get political.
In a few months, Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump will be our next President. The media will try to convince you that this is the most important election of your lifetime. But in truth, your vote can go further in local and Congressional elections. The only problem: Over half the country doesn’t vote.
The U.S. Census Bureau found that the 42 percent voter turnout for the 2014 congressional election was the lowest since 1978.
Don’t let the trend of voter disengagement continue in your town. Team up with your action committee to promote the importance of local voting and key issues. Use your volunteer contacts to create informative forums that educate the public. These efforts can help your community elect solid, vetted candidates—not default, career politicians.
And FYI: If your current leaders aren’t getting the job done, you don’t have to wait until the next election season. Recall and get them booted out of office early.
Talk less, listen more.
Often, national conversations on race and police matters center on those who get it, those who want to get it, and those who don’t get it at all. Opinions aside, when was the last time you spoke to another person about their struggle? Your experience may not be theirs. And we could all learn from one another by having honest conversations, not generalizations.
So get outside of yourself. If you never make the extra effort to understand or extend a hand in solidarity, then you’re part of the problem.
Your checklist is complete.
Change begins at our doorsteps. And everyone can take measures to improve their own communities. An action is an ultimate statement; so if you desire progress, you must be a living example.
Now let’s get to work.
Follow more of Lee’s work at the Communications Activist.