If you’ve been following my Instagram you know that like many of us, I wanted to show my solidarity with the Black community and my anger and sorrow over the injustices that continue the world over. I think it is important to be quiet (selfies can wait) for the voices that have been ignored to have a chance to be seen and heard. This momentum I hope, is not of the moment, but of a long and enduring strength that resonates with us all, as we listen and learn. I want to use this time to think about what I, as an individual, as a small business, can do to help.
This week was a time to mute myself from promoting my brand,
and listen to others so that I could see how to move forward and stand together.
On my social media and in my personal life I am a vocal advocate and supporter in the belief that mental & emotional health is so deeply important. If we took the time to look after ourselves I truly believe the quality of life is so enriched. The kindness you can lend to others, the tools you acquire as you navigate life are long-term in shaping you into a stronger and kinder being.
In this vein, I have decided that I am going to donate
50% of proceeds of my classic headband range
for the next couple of days to
Of course, you don’t have to donate through me.
If this cause resonates with you please donate straight to their website: https://www.blackmindsmatteruk.com/
Black Minds Matter UK:
‘We understand more than ever the effects of racial discrimination across this country, for many black people the cases of violence against individuals such as George Floyd in the USA and the many historic incidents in the UK are deeply triggering. Treating mental health must be a priority in the fight for equality and the welfare of black people in the UK. We also understand that the NHS is currently in crisis and therapy is not always readily available. Our aim is to link as many black individuals and families in the UK with certified, professional, black practitioners for sessions as soon as possible. Our aim is to use the money raised to pay in full for therapy sessions for those in need. We have created a website http://www.blackmindsmatteruk.com/ so that individuals may choose a practitioner to their liking, keeping confidentiality, and dignity of our focus. This is a state of emergency for black people's wellbeing and we need your support to help us bridge the gap so that access can become available. ‘ This is no small feat and we need you to make this happen. Black Lives Matter. Black Minds Matter.’
Visit their Website to find out more as they have only recently set up, so you can keep up to date by following them on their Instagram
Please spread the word and let people know
that this initiative exists.
Sometimes you need help, professional help. Mental health is already a difficult subject at the best of times. I truly believe this cause has far-reaching positives and I am excited to be donating 50% of my classic headbands for the next 2 days. They will have a Black Minds Matter UK ribbon on them so you know that your purchase will be going towards this amazing cause.
I am currently thinking on how to grow and move forward while supporting causes that matter so much to me in the future, as I am totally cognizant that #BlackLivesMatter isn’t just a trending topic and will need continued allies and supporters. So I hope you will join me on this journey!
I also wanted to share amazing guides and helpful information
that set out how we as individuals
can listen, learn, and stand together
during this time of utter turmoil.
(If you have any suggestions I’d love to hear them!)
The Black Lives Matters resource that can point you in the direction of petitions, organisations, and charities to donate to as well as other ways you can get involved!
If you have no money to donate, you can help by just watching this video with AdBlock off, all Ad revenue profits go to BLM organisations and charities!
It is also super important to support and advocate safely online, this article was sent to me recently it was very insightful and an interesting read in informing of aspects that I had not given much thought to previously.
Art by Sacrèe Frangine
"About Race", by Reni Eddo-Lodge the author of ‘Why I’m no longer talking to White People about race’ (which is also another thing to recommend for your reading list!) a one-series podcast for in-depth discussions and conversations for a thought-provoking listen. Listen here, there are podcast recommendations on their website for further listening!
Here are a few petitions on change.org that might interest you:
(more petitions to find on their website)