Beyond The Safety Pin
The recent United States presidential election has provoked a stir of emotions in citizens everywhere; whether that be sadness and confusion or joy and comfort. An overwhelming sentiment many Americans are faced with, however, is fear. Fear for what their lives may now look like due to changing legislation and rhetoric around the country.
Since election day, there have been well over 400 reported incidents of hate crimes in the form of verbal and physical harassment, according to Southern Poverty Law Center, who provides a number of charts mapping the incidents across the country.
Image credit: splcenter.org
Whether you are part of the groups being targeted or not, there are many ways we can help one another feel safe and supported.
First, let’s take a look at the safety pin movement. It all started after Brexit was finalized in June, when people started noticing an increased number of incidents related to xenophobic abuse. Concerned citizens around the United Kingdom decided to wear visible safety pins on their clothing as a sign of solidarity for the victims of such hate. Thus, after November 8, the United States adopted the same idea, offering a message of literal and figurative “safety” and empathy. There has been much controversy over this campaign, however, with many believing that simply wearing a piece of metal is “lazy activism." Imagine, though, if you were to get onto a metro where every person was sporting one, wouldn’t you feel safe? Messages are powerful.
There are indeed, however, many other ways to be an ally: no matter who you voted for, here are some of the things you can do to help yourself and those whose lives will be most affected by the results of the presidential election.
1. Practice Self Care (and encourage others to do the same)
One way you can do that is taking a break from the internet. As everyone knows, there are lots of trolls out there with one mission: to upset you. So, do not be afraid to block, unfriend, and unfollow. It is important to understand opposite viewpoints, but no one needs daily disrespect and hate on their computer screens.
Make sure your friends and loved ones know what is available to if they are ever feeling overwhelmed, such as these hotlines:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Mental Health America: 1-800-969-6642
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: 1-800-826-3632
The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860
2. Participate in the Conversation
Showing up in your community has more of an impact than you might think.
Get involved in a protest
This is one of the easiest ways to literally have your voice heard. It can be quite invigorating to be surrounded by all sorts of people with your same beliefs.
Image credit: Paige Hart
Use social media as a tool
It can be as simple as stating your opinions on social issues, but take it one step further and be a megaphone for those who are being threatened. A way to do that is talking up writers, filmmakers, and other artists who are sharing the stories of groups targeted by hate and supporting the storytellers by offering their points of view which may otherwise be ignored.
Get involved with government meetings and associations
Join chapters of grassroots political organizations and have an effect at the local level—research online to find one in your area. Some smaller suburbs and towns even hold regular "town hall" style meetings allowing their residents to have their voices heard. Another beneficial option is to call or write letters to your government officials. All you have to do is leave a simple voicemail either asking for change or expressing gratitude. Find your elected official's number here.
Read up
Be aware of your surroundings. Educate yourself on social issues and current affairs such as Trump’s 100-Day Plan, white privilege, examples of microaggressions you may not be aware of, or how sexism is still an issue in the modern world. Then, use that information in conversation with others. Family gatherings and casual get-togethers can be the perfect place to share your knowledge, gain more knowledge, and engage with others about these issues. (Thanksgiving is over, but the holidays are just around the corner!)
Don’t be a bystander
Don’t be afraid to call out your friends if you hear things come out of their mouths like microaggressions—such as racist jokes and rape jokes. Let them know their words are hurtful and unacceptable. Next, actually report incidents of true harassment and violence—unless you feel completely comfortable stepping in, the safest thing to do is call the police if you witness any sort of hate-fueled aggression.
3. Support Organizations that Represent Groups Who May Feel Threatened
Volunteering and donating are excellent ways to show your support and compassion. Here’s a list of just a few organizations that would greatly appreciate your time and help:
Showing Up For Racial Justice: Through community organizing, mobilizing, and education, SURJ moves White people to act as part of a multi-racial majority for justice with passion and accountability
Council on American-Islamic Relations: Enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding
Black Lives Matter: A chapter-based national organization working for the validity of Black life. We are working to (re)build the Black liberation movement
Planned Parenthood: Believes in the fundamental right of each individual, throughout the world, to manage his or her fertility, regardless of the individual's income, marital status, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, or residence
RAINN: Assists the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network in combating sexual violence, aiding victims, and ensuring that perpetrators are caught
Mazzoni Center: Provides quality comprehensive health and wellness services in an LGBTQ-focused environment, while preserving the dignity and improving the quality of life of the individuals we serve
NextGen Climate Action: Acts politically to prevent climate disaster and promote prosperity for every American
Standing Rock Against the Dakota Access Pipeline: In honor of our future generations, we fight this pipeline to protect our water, our sacred places, and all living beings
American Civil Liberties Union: Uphold the individual rights and liberties guaranteed to all by the Constitution and the laws of the United States
Campaign Zero: We can live in a world where the police don't kill people by limiting police interventions, improving community interactions, and ensuring accountability
Everytown: Americans working together to end gun violence and build safer communities
Obviously, this list is by no means exhaustive.
And lastly, BE KIND. It is exceedingly meaningful to have empathy, listen deeply, and ask questions—and not simply attack. Remember, involvement is a broad spectrum; you don’t need to be a full-time activist to have an impact. If you’ve ever thought about taking action, now’s the time.
