On Baltimore: Amplify Your Voice
Like on the streets of Baltimore, social media is ablaze with confusion, pain and rage over the suspicious death of 25-year-old Freddie Gray. Gray’s death is symbolic to years of struggle and bullying that has rampantly ran through the streets of Black and Brown communities by the hands of law enforcement. Being online influencers and lovers of social media is equally saddening as it is empowering during times like these: the issues are constantly in our face, but right from our smartphones, we can create change in our neighborhoods.
3 Ways to Amplify Your Voice & Help #Baltimore
Are you tired of seeing the same crimes make news with no resolution or justice in tow? So am I! This is why I’m encouraging all of us to use our platforms — blogs, social media, businesses, churches, etc. — to amplify our voices.
1.Reach out to Baltimore residents & organizations
The best people who can direct you on how to help are those in need. Use social media to reach out to residents and local organizations in Baltimore and ask what they need. Be prepared to donate items, money, time and/or share truthful news on what’s happening on the streets of Baltimore and surrounding areas.
2. Start a Movement
Your own neighborhood may be in need of a new program or coalition. Think about who you’re connected to and who you need to bring your vision to life. Find creative ways to discuss the issues and develop well-thought out solutions that will bring social change to your area.
3. Support Others in Motion
Our very own Mario Armstrong of the Never Settle Club started the #More4Bmore campaign. This campaign is designed to partner “creatives, leaders, doers, techies, writers, educators, problem solvers AND anyone who wants to get involved” in Baltimore to “create new and innovative solutions.” Those interested can sign up at http://bitly.com/More4Bmore.
There is also @LBSBaltimore. Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle (LBS) is a grassroots think-tank which advances the public policy interest of Black people in Baltimore. For more information on how you can support this movement and find news in real time, visit their website at http://lbsbaltimore.com/.
Our Blogalicious conference will still be held in Baltimore this year, where we will provide the resources to help you Build Your Own Empire. Though the turn of events is a bit frightening, we plan to use this opportunity to work with citizens of Baltimore and support them in the best way we can.
Mario Armstrong says
Stacey, this is an incredible post that really gives everyone several ways to think about how they can take action. Baltimore is my hometown so I can t thank you enough for pushing people to become engaged and use their voice of power to activate change in some way. THANKYOU for also making people aware of various initiatives like http://www.More4Bmore.com where people can take action even if they don’t live in Baltimore. Baltimore is a beautiful city and we are sooo eager to have Boigalicious in our city this year. See everyone soon! Until then get active!