I’m not going to say much as the photographs are impactful enough and I don’t want my voice to be heard, I want their voices to be heard. I’m here to listen, learn, and support. But I will say, the Survivors Speak protest in Berkley, Michigan was powerful. Students, parents, educators, kids, survivors of our corrupt prison system, politicians, everyone, of all races, gathered together to protest violence against black lives.
During the speeches before the protest march began, Trische’, the Director and Founder of Survivors Speak said, “Once your eyes are open to it, you are accountable with what you do with it… This is a call to action, for us to rise up the right way…to be present, and to love each other…The only thing that is going to cancel this hate is love…The bible says to love your neighbor as yourself… We have to leave our hearts open for racist individuals to be able to conform. We speak truth, we hold people accountable, and what they do with it is on them. We have to show love y’all.”
To listen and view the remainder of this speech and the speeches of students and returning citizens click here.
If you don’t know what to do to support this movement, that right there is it my friends. Love, speak the truth, share resources, and hold others accountable by being anti-racist.
It was truly an honor to document this protest. And remember, this isn't about politics, it’s about humanity.
With love and respect,
How you can help:
Michigan Liberation is a movement to end systemic racism and mass incarceration. They have campaigns to protect individuals who are incarcerated and support them during the COVID pandemic. You can find the campaigns here and sign the petitions.
You can also text 313-314-2620 to join or visit miliberation.org/join/
