3 ways to support POC, queer and female led movements

Many have had the privilege of not being or feeling affected up until this point by harmful and discriminatory social, economic and political structures. However, given the threats our country faces under a new administration, people are “woking up” and seeking out new ways to engage with their communities and the processes that govern us. The proliferation of social media has allowed more people to access a broader range of information about social issues, legislative battles, and transformative initiatives for change. Social media has also become an effective platform for activism and stronger civic engagement. This access can feel intimidating and inspiring at the same time.

I have connected with my marginalized identities in a very different way than others due to the privileges that have protected me. As a Black and white mixed race, cis-gender lesbian, I have still benefited from light skinned, ability, straight passing, and documentation status privilege. Consistently recognizing and checking the privileges we have allows us to stand back and follow those who are most impacted by an issue because ultimately, that’s who has the answers. People whose identities place them at the margins of our society are continually under attack, and we all must challenge the mindset of “not my problem.” Complacency will stifle widespread change if everyone waits to act until the war is brought to their doorstep. We need everyone plugging in to action somehow, whether it’s to have your voice finally heard or to leverage what you have to support those who are on the front lines. Here are some ways to channel your energy and get involved.

BDS (boycott, divestment, sanctions) is a tool for resistance that was used during the freedom movement in the ‘60’s and 70’s to combat apartheid and the occupation of Palestine. BDS should be revived again as an organized effort from the ground up. A way to start is by using our collective buying power to invest in Black owned businesses in our communities and supporting other local minority and female owned businesses. When you find out about companies with problematic policies and leadership like MillerCoors, New Balance and Uber, boycott, tell your friends, and take your dollars elsewhere. #Grabyourwallet regularly updates their divestment list, and a new grassroots coalition has created a divestment app. Share this information with your networks and organize your spending power on the local level.

National Coalition for the Homeless or find your city/state’s local coalition-those who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability are stigmatized and ignored, and tactics for survival such as panhandling or sleeping in public spaces are criminalized in many cities. Oftentimes, people living under these circumstances have suffered multiple abuses and injustices such as domestic/sexual violence, rejection due to sexual or gender identity, chronic poverty, and/or untreated mental or physical illness. These coalitions advocate for housing and decriminalization policies and provide programming around job training, education and other supports.

7 ways to support Planned Parenthood

National Organization for Women (NOW) and National Women’s Liberation

American Civil Liberties Union

Gathering for Justice-Justice League NYC works to end child incarceration and challenge the racial inequalities of the criminal justice system by working with activists, formerly incarcerated individuals, academics and community members.

Southern Poverty Law Center advocates in communities and the courts to promote tolerance and equality while monitoring and exposing hate groups.

Right to the City is “a national alliance of racial, economic and environmental justice organizations” committed to combating gentrification and advocating for marginalized communities.

National Immigration Law Center and NY Immigration Coalition provide legal assistance and advocate for immigrant populations.

American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee is a grassroots organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the civil rights and heritage of people of Arab descent.

International Refugee Assistance Project is made up of lawyers, case managers and interpreters to serve refugees domestically and abroad facing humanitarian crises.

The Standing Rock Water Protectors still need funds and solidarity, and here are 7 other Native led movements across the country that we all need to know about.

Black and Pink is a prison abolition group that works at the intersection of queer rights and criminal justice reform by advocating for LGBTQ prisoners through legislation and providing emotional and social support through their penpal program.

#JointheMovement is a comprehensive list of activist organizations to get involved with organized by cause and location.