Everything is not back to normal.

Last week, I muted all communications and promotions for my business.

From June 1-7, I intentionally took time to read, learn, listen to and amplify Black voices.  I’m late to this movement. I started my anti-racism journey about a year ago, when I read “White Fragility” for the first time. But then, I’m ashamed to say, I stalled.

And then, these recent events: the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery. And so many more.

So, even though I’m sending newsletters and am back on social media, everything is not back to normal. One week is not nearly enough to take in, understand, unearth and start to dismantle.

I’ll admit this: I don’t know how to do it the right way. I don’t want to be silent, and I don’t want to fall into the trap of performative allyship or trying to prove I’m “one of the good ones.” I’m here, continuing my anti-racism work, and sometimes I’ll share about it.

I'm also still in the process of educating myself on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, through workshops and webinars. I'm evaluating what it means for my business, and for me as a solopreneur.

But first and foremost, I'm starting with me personally. To examine my own prejudices and beliefs, and to work to be continually anti-racist.

White folks, to begin or continue the work of anti-racism I invite you to join me in the following baby steps:

 

No, this is not a normal career advice post or “get the words right” post, because everything is not back to normal. 

Everything has changed. And I’m committed to changing too.

Karen Styles