It’s not lost on me that this is happening right now in Detroit, the nation’s largest black city which has been devastated by COVID-19. More than 1,350 people have died and 10,929 cases have been reported.
The other thing worth noting: This began as a peaceful demonstration led by several known Detroit activists. It later devolved into this, with many younger white protesters who don’t live in the majority-black city.
To be even more blunt, I was just texting with an activist source who said: “Imagine a bunch of black folks popping up in Livonia or Howell (two majority white suburbs) to protest. Exactly, the shit wouldn’t happen.”
We need to have a conversation about what “allyship” truly means. Standing/supporting black folks and protesting? Cool. Coming into a majority-black city to stir up trouble? That ain’t it. This is life or death for black folks. This isn’t a trendy moment to latch on.
Update: One man was killed & dozens arrested in Detroit, most of whom weren't city residents, as peaceful daytime protests gave way to more violence Friday night. Police Chief James Craig said 40 arrests were made — 75% to 80% were from outside the city. detroitnews.com/story/news/loc…
Detroit’s police chief told @detroitnews that some residents were urging the agitators to leave, he said. I do know that many of the original organizers left & dispersed earlier in the day. Circumstances surrounding the shooting are unclear.
To be clear, what’s at issue here, some activists say, is when white protesters began to center themselves in a movement, intentionally or unintentionally. They aren’t saying don’t protest alongside black folks. But here’s what needs to be understood: This moment isn’t about you.
This moment is about the weight and impact of 400 years of oppression & structural racism afflicted upon black people. Listen.
