As summer approaches, I find myself entering this season with the same trepidation I have felt for the past thirteen years. Being a Black mother of a teenage son, every summer brings its own set of fears, and this year is compounded by the ongoing pandemic. The tragic murder of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis has heightened my anxiety. The subsequent civil unrest and violence against protesters only amplify my worries, not just for my children, but for yours as well.
Every mother wants her child to create joyful memories during summer— to make friends, learn new things, and grow into a responsible young adult. I want my son to thrive and achieve his dreams. Yet, I cannot help but wonder if my white mom friends share similar fears: Do they worry about their teenage sons having their futures cut short? The video of George Floyd’s death, captured by a courageous young woman, Darnella Frazier, serves as a stark reminder that the lives of our children can be taken for granted.
What Can We Do?
So, what can we do as mothers in light of these tragic events? The pandemic has shown us the importance of unity in the face of adversity, and we must approach the issue of racism with the same resolve. We should all carry a sense of outrage and urgency regarding the senseless killings of Black individuals by law enforcement. We cannot ignore this issue or leave it for future generations to tackle. It must be confronted now.
As mothers, we often share our struggles in parenting groups, on social media, and in conversations with friends. We come together because we all want the best for our children. Let’s extend that support to Black mothers. Attend rallies, participate in workshops, and engage with topics that challenge your biases and deepen your understanding of racism in America. Bring your children along for these experiences.
Reflecting on Our Fears
Consider the dreams you have for your child. Can you fathom how it would feel if those dreams were snatched away by a police officer who wrongly suspected your child of wrongdoing? What if your son were to die tragically in the street? Would you worry about the implications of their skin color when they step outside?
Sit with those feelings. Does it make you uncomfortable? It should. I have mourned for mothers I’ve never met— for those who lost their children, like George’s mother, Breonna’s mother, and many more. As mothers, we cannot wait for another tragedy to ask, “How can I help?” or “What can I do?”
Becoming Informed Allies
As a Black woman and mother, I feel a responsibility to guide white moms toward becoming more informed allies. Statistically, a Black woman like me is 1.4 times more likely to be killed by a police officer than a white woman; Black men face an even graver risk. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reality that demands our attention.
Now is the time for proactive measures. Years ago, I attended a workshop on Undoing Racism. It was not only a chance to bond with my colleagues but also an opportunity to confront our biases and engage in honest conversations about race.
Begin by reflecting on who you are at your core. Just because you grew up in a diverse community or have Black friends does not exempt you from complicity in racial issues. The first step to being an ally is educating yourself. Encourage your children to stand up for others by participating in educational events focused on race.
Speaking Out Against Injustice
Be the voice that speaks out against police brutality and racism, even if you find yourself alone in the conversation. Your children observe your actions, and they will learn from you. Reject the notion that a Black person in handcuffs is automatically guilty. Resources like Bryan Stevenson’s “Just Mercy” and Ava DuVernay’s “13th” can provide valuable insights into these issues.
This fight is not solely the responsibility of one person or community— it is a collective struggle. As white moms, leverage your privilege to advocate for change. Together, we can reshape our society into one that is more just and equitable.
Conclusion
From one mother to another, let’s commit to showing up, listening, and growing together. We can honor and mourn those we have lost, like Philando Castile and Tamir Rice. For more insights on this topic, check out our other blog post here.
In a world where the lives of our children are at stake, we must act.
Summary: This article encourages white mothers to actively engage in anti-racism efforts and support Black mothers in light of ongoing injustices. It emphasizes the importance of education, speaking out against racism, and fostering conversations about race, urging women to leverage their privilege for the greater good.