Women's March SF Statement Regarding Protests
This week once again highlights the deep and systemic racism in our country, showcasing the violence and privilege it enables. The police murder of George Floyd — as the most recent in a too-long-endless-string that includes Breonna Taylor and Tony McCade and countless others; the senseless murder of Ahmed Arbery; and the weaponized whiteness Amy Cooper displayed are part of the same racist system — it just happens they were both caught on film.
And it has to stop. The protests across the country are working toward that end.
The Women’s March movement was founded in protest — spurred by misogyny laid bare by an election that only seemed to surprise straight white people. Our movement’s queer leaders and leaders of color already knew — in their bodies and their lived experiences in our communities — the ways white supremacy is upheld in this nation. The protests now are also for justice.
We call on you to again show up. Peacefully.
Assertions that Women’s March was peaceful because it was so heavily white and female are not wrong. The way the police show up for white women is markedly different than how they show up for our black siblings — in daily exchanges, and in the lawful protests we organize.
So now, rather than weaponizing tears or fear, it’s time for those of us who identify as white to show up as not just allies but as antiracist activists on behalf of our black and brown brothers and sisters. The Women’s March was founded on the non-violent and unity principles of the civil and human rights organizers who came before us and as we again work to stand on their shoulders, we must remember what we now call the Civil Rights movement, with heroes on stamps and quote cards, was viewed as violent unrest in its day.
We will continue to post actions, choosing to center and amplify the voices of leaders who’ve been doing this work.
We implore you to be safe. To take care. Wear a mask and keep your distance. To stand in solidarity with those on the front line; we will be right there with you.
We are aware that this is all unfolding during a global pandemic, but we are also aware that the physical, economic and systemic dangers of this pandemic disproportionately impact people of color — especially women.
So we show up. And use our privilege on behalf of those most vulnerable, as requested:
Help showcase the protest and speak up about opportunistic distractions
Come prepared: with cash and change, snacks, water, memorized phone numbers, facemask and gloves, sanitizer etc. (Amnesty International’s tips)
If you are bringing your phone make sure it’s charged and consider a back up charger; memorize at least one number in case you lose it.
Social distance at protests; consider bringing extra PPE for those who don’t have. Consistently wear your own mask properly.
Find a trusted friend who will not be at the protest who can check in with you and make sure you've left safely.
Understand the directions and ways organizers are going to be communicating (via live video, call, etc) and be mindful of their directions to help keep everyone safe.
If you can’t attend protests live be on the lookout for online actions / forums / etc which you can attend and amplify.
Don’t assume that all protesters want to be photographed / filmed and also make sure you are safe and aware of our own surroundings while filming.
Know your rights. (ACLU)
Look out for your fellow protesters and if you are able to help, give assistance.
Follow Women’s March for updates (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)
Stay safe, take care of each other.
Donate if you can to bail funds.
Check out SURJ’s programming.
Remember, we have simply been building coalitions in service of social justice, weaving connections among organizations who’ve been doing this work for decades.