In All Seriousness

Racism Hurts

In this week’s podcast episode, Jill and Tony discussed how they’ve managed to maintain their sanity in spite of encountering racists their entire life.

The two made jokes about the stupid things racists have said to them, but they also expressed how their humor masked their pain.

Jill advised listeners to have more empathy, to put themselves in someone else’s shoes when they feel the urge to make someone else feel inferior or threatened.

Tony urged listeners to think things through.

Tony and Jill believe that most of their listeners are not racist, but that we all know someone who is. So, what do you do to combat racists? Jill and Tony have a few more suggestions:

• Call them out on their bad behavior. Don’t give them a pass. Tell them why their actions or so-called jokes are insensitive and outright wrong.
• Understand that you don’t get to decide how a person should feel when they are discriminated against. Let them tell you their story… and believe them. Then determine how you can use your platform and privilege to help them.
• Know that racism isn’t a trend. It’s an ongoing and daily battle, so if you are willing to help, don’t stop.

What are you willing to do to fight racism? If you have encountered racists, what did you do to maintain your sanity? Please leave your answers in the comments section. We really want to hear from you.

Thanks for listening.