On Sunday evening, following the injustice of the case concerning Andrew Loku’s murder (the cop who killed him was not charged) as well as the reduction of AfroFest from two days to one,
members of the black community and allies came together in remembrance, celebration, and protest to express what should be obvious but isn’t being displayed within the racist system: “black lives matter.” Since Sunday, the black lives matter movement has occupied space outside of the Toronto Police Station. It is heartwrenching that they must stand outside in these freezing temperatures to chant that their lives matter. Their determination for justice is further palpable as the community together exclaims, “the whole damn system is guilty as hell!” It isn’t possible to believe in equality and not support this movement.
Being engaged in such environments is important for a collegiate. Support and involvement in making a positive change, especially in solidarity with a movement led by the youth – by your peers, is vital in making the most of your college experience. If you aren’t already, become educated about the issues that surround you both on campus and in your community. The constant refusal to even hear out people trying to provide information about school petitions, elections, or events that I witness on a daily basis is highly disappointing. HerCampus began as a business project initiated by three Harvard women. As a reader of the blog, let them be your inspiration (should you need it) to be proactive.
Here are some reasons to engage in a protest or rally (should you believe it to be for a valid cause):
1. The Canadian charter of rights and freedoms grants us the “right” and “freedom” to do so. Take advantage of this in order to achieve justice.
Are we not yet in a point in time where everyone believes in equality? We have the masses constantly speaking out about it, but when it comes time to take action, it’s shocking the amount of people who stand by and can’t even be bothered to watch.
2. Coming together as a community.
This is something, which should be instinctual. The fact that it is not, and that justice for folks’ lives is not incentive enough goes to show how disturbingly damaged our sense of community has become as humans. Help reinforce the idea that the fight is against the system and not the people who are expected to adhere to it. Don’t be a bystander.
3. Fresh air. It’s fair to say that it is nearly time for finals and people are stressed out. But, laziness seems to be a major issue for lack of participation. It’s sad that humanity has reached such a hermitous place. Challenge that.
4. Exposure to political issues and social justice. Being educated in terms of the legal system is important. This is our freedom we are fighting for.
While the benefits to participation are great, it is fair to say there are potential challenges that are associated with it. The following are two tips on overcoming such challenges that may help on making your participation easier.
1. If commuting costs or time are an issue, carpool with friends.
2. If your parents are an obstacle, try to explain the importance of the protest. If your safety is a concern, make a compromise in which your safety seems ensured and maybe try to convince them to even go with you.
While I was watching Allegiant over the ridiculous ice storm a few weeks back, I came across an influential quote that related to this topic. “You want change with no sacrifice. You want peace with no struggle. The world doesn’t work like that.” It is unfair that the system is flawed, especially when it doesn’t favour you. Just because you shouldn’t have to fight for something, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t fight for it.