In the past few months, we’ve seen an extra spotlight on the way Black people are constantly policed, even when they’re just minding their business.
While no one should be afraid to walk around their own neighbourhood, one Black man revealed why he would never do this simple act.
Best-selling author and TEDx speaker Shola Richards explained that he was frightened of walking through his white-dominated area by himself.
The dad revealed he always takes his daughter or his dog for a walk to show that he’s a family man who is a resident of the area, lest anyone should have any suspicions.
His stark reality is part of the experience of living while Black, which is finally getting some attention in the mainstream.
Facebook users were shocked by Shola’s admission and said they’d be happy to walk with him as an ally.
Shola’s explanation resonated with many as the post blew up, amassing half a million shares.
He wrote: ‘I would be scared to death to take these walks without my girls and my dog. In fact, in the four years living in my house, I have never taken a walk around my neighborhood alone (and probably never will).
‘This is my reality. When I’m walking down the street holding my young daughter’s hand and walking my sweet fluffy dog, I’m just a loving dad and pet owner taking a break from the joylessness of crisis homeschooling.’
He continued: ‘But without them by my side, almost instantly, I morph into a threat in the eyes of some white folks.
‘Instead of being a loving dad to two little girls, unfortunately, all that some people can see is a 6’2” athletically-built black man in a cloth mask who is walking around in a place where he doesn’t belong (even though, I’m still the same guy who just wants to take a walk through his neighbourhood).
‘It’s equal parts exhausting and depressing to feel like I can’t walk around outside alone, for fear of being targeted.’
Shola also shared six different tips for white people to be anti-racist, including some practical steps they can take.
Some of the advice includes speaking up with friends and family s and realising that racism isn’t just limited to ‘Make America Great Again’ supporters.
He also says people should realise that saying ‘all lives matter’ is tone-deaf and reductive.
The father-of-two noted that while the world works things out, he’ll continue to rely on his daughters to keep him safe, though usually it’s the other way around.
Shola isn’t alone in his fears. Many Black people have had the police called on them for something as simple as entering their own property.
Even grime star Stormzy has been subject to suspicion upon going into his own home.
Let’s hope the current conversation opens people’s eyes.
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source https://metro.co.uk/2020/06/11/black-man-explains-why-never-goes-walks-white-neighbourhood-12836168/
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