George Floyd, One Year Later

It’s hard to believe it’s been a year. 

In some ways it feels like so much more, in some ways so much less.

And yes, Black lives still matter. They matter deeply.

In the last year there has been an awakening like we’ve never seen before. People have started to come to terms with how much racism and white supremacy have contributed to the building of this country and how so much of that ideology may be have been internalized - no matter who you are or what race or ethnicity you are.

And we still have a long way to go.

I am grateful for this awakening. It has played a huge role in pushing me to become a life and impact coach - to help people question the messages they’ve received and internalized and decide intentionally who they are, what they believe, and how they want to show up and contribute to this world.

It is so important to support and become a part of the movements that align with our values and push for change.

But even with those movements, we need to continue to question. We need to continue to evaluate the messages we’re receiving and decide if they’re aligned with our values.

Is the message here one that pushes towards equality, unity, and progress?

Or is it one that puts one group down in order to elevate another?

What I’ve witnessed over the past 2+ weeks has reaffirmed this belief that I’ve held for a long time.

We are all complex, multi-layered beings with intersectional identities.

While we may align with one part of an organization or movement, it doesn’t mean we have to follow blindly.

The same internalized white supremacy that contributes to complicity in racism, applies to antisemitism and every other form of hate. And unfortunately, even the people and movements dedicated to progress and change can be complicit in other forms of hate.

One can be part of one marginalized group and still contribute to the marginalization of another.

The awakening that was ignited a year ago (Giana, yes your Daddy changed the world!) needs to continue and needs to happen across the board.

I am proud of who I am. I am proud of my Jewish identity. I am proud to be someone who stands up for progressive causes and against all hate.

Be proud of who you are and stand for what you believe in.

P.S. I’m a life and impact coach for mission-driven people in the music biz. I will help you show up authentically as yourself to increase your impact in the world. Contact me for a free call.