Stephen Satterfield

Stephen Satterfield Instagram – Suddenly everyone is on the path to racial justice. I know it seems sarcastic, the way I said that, but it wasn’t meant to be. It is however, startling. Overnight and presumably across industries Black creatives have seen their social media followers expand by the thousands. (Thanks @ciaosamin)! Also yesterday, my brilliant friend made a video cautioning against policing other peoples learning journey with racial justice. I’m moving in the spirit of her timely insight. But with complications.⁣
⁣
It is hard to interpret this show of solidarity(?) without some measure of skepticism. We are not afraid of the stage, but history says it will be taken away and co-opted for profit. No thanks, I’ll take reparations. ⁣
⁣
These shows of solidarity(?) can actually be triggering. I’m happy to have “gained” thousands of “followers”, but feel a peculiar sense of encroachment that makes me feel compelled to express weariness rather than delight. But if you must know about me, know this: I survived Southern apartheid. But none of us get away unscathed. ⁣
⁣
Please understand that right now, Black folks are holding critical space for one another. Historically, when we’ve convened to protect our spaces and our spirits, white people have responded with apathy or hostility. I understand why it is hard to see a world, or even a movement for racial justice, that is not centered on the comfort of white people. The only relationship to space y’all know is one of entitlement, from colonization to gentrification. All the rest of us know is when the white folks show up, we’re in danger of disappearing. Black folks are uncomfortable and white folks are oblivious. Understanding is under siege.⁣
⁣
If this analysis has you agitated, please investigate. Your discomfort could never rival mine when my life flashes before my eyes every time I see blue lights. Want me to move through the PTSD to make you feel complete? Please take several seats. ⁣
⁣
Now that that’s off my chest, I want to say that I will meet your journey with racial justice with openness, but only if you hold equal respect for my skepticism. ⁣✊🏿🖤 | Posted on 04/Jun/2020 01:23:03