George Floyd
My wife and I spent the weekend peacefully protesting around the Twin Cities. The first week after the murder of George Floyd was intensely emotional.
Personally, I have always been one of the only or one of the few people of color in my workplace. I’ve also experienced racism based on how I look.
I recognize my privilege and understand that growing up in an upper-middle-class white family afforded me a lot of opportunities that other people of color never had. I also understand the opportunity I have to help those around me. I'm now committing myself to do more and to be more vocal.
I believe in systematic racism. I always have. I've just never had the courage to come out and say it. Now I do. I'm not going to suppress my anger.
For some reason, my LinkedIn community seems to be business as usual. This is wrong. I’m going to ask you to take a deep look at yourself and stand up for what is right. make a post, get out there, and seek the change for the betterment of your community, state and country. I can't think of anything more American. If you are in the Twin Cities and feel uncomfortable going to a peaceful protest please reach out to me and I will accompany you. I went to 3759 Chicago Ave S where George Floyd was murdered. I was greeted by love and kindness.
You may not understand what it is like to have someone punch you in the face and tell you to go back to Iraq, get yelled at about how being a Muslim makes you evil, or get pulled over by a cop and interrogated about why you are driving in there town. What you can do is make the conscious effort to support those around you and help educate those that don't understand.
https://www.benjerry.com/home/whats-new/2016/systemic-racism-is-real
Owner, New Tapestry LLC
4 年Appreciate the articulate reminder, Michael. You are not alone in your grief and anguish. May our hearts, minds, and hands turn toward reconciliation and healing.
??People Connector | ??World Language Guy | ??Hockey (and Donut) Aficionado??
4 年Thanks, Michael Braunlin, for encouraging me to speak up and look inward. I've been part of the problem. Too quiet for too long. Thinking good thoughts and praying for others. Being kind. Not enough. Too much patting myself on the back when I could have been digging deeper, asking more questions, like how do I feel about the statements here: https://janeelliott.com/learning-materials-1 ? I carry prejudice within me. I look at someone else's LinkedIn profile and make assumptions. I see someone whose skin color is a different shade than my own. He or she may be smiling, and I don't think often enough of what it must feel like to carry their burden or how I might help them. I will do better. How can I help?
Sustainability & EOP Strategy Consultant
4 年Thanks for stepping up & for holding feet to the fire, Michael Braunlin.
Leadership Cultivator | Employee Experience Activator | Culture Champion
4 年Yes Mike. Thank you for this.
Transportation planner and program manager
4 年Thinking of you, buddy. I haven't made a post on here, but you're right and I will.