If you ask me how I'm doing....

If you ask me how I’m doing - wait for my response. Listen to my real lived experiences as a combat veteran and African American woman. Listen with empathy as I share the trauma of hearing over and over, “warning the images you’re about to see could be disturbing”. I now know that those words are code for another black person killed by law enforcement and the media will show the images over and over.  

Listen with empathy and learn what you can do to actively support your friends and colleagues via your words and actions. So, do the homework to increase your knowledge. Don’t expect me to act like it’s just another day, another month, or another year. I’m worried for my brothers, my nephews, my uncles, and all of my black and brown friends. If you're asking me to ignore the pain, I’m experiencing then you’re asking me not to be authentic and true to who I am. And that is NOT something I’m willing to do. ...

• I will not become numb to the countless and senseless murders or violence,
• I will not give up the fight for justice and equity,
• I will not ignore the violence that’s happening at the hands of those who swore to protect and serve... because we all know it’s not right.
• I am determined more today than ever before to use my voice, my position, and my influence.

What can you do….

• If you see something, do something. 
• When you hear something, say something.
• After you listen, educate, and learn - go on this journey with me. Become an advocate, understand the disparities and do good.

We can do this together because I know we are better when we advocate for one another.