How can we help those who are feeling scared?

[Farmgirl1961]

Okay -- we're all feeling scared...downright petrified. But me, as a middle-aged white woman - have that "white privilege" going for me. I suppose the next 4 years might be a bit more oppressive for me, but nothing like the fear that Muslim Americans, Latinos, AAs and young women may experience.

In that vein, I'm wondering what I, as an individual -- or what we -- as a community can do to support one another. Today I was thinking about the "pay if forward" model, or just reaching out and doing something nice, helpful, generous to those who are feeling especially vulnerable.

I'd like to start a dialogue to see what ideas others have. I do plan on joining the ACLU and doing whatever I can as an individual to stayed informed and voice my opinion, but I want to do something personal to show that I stand united, in love and kindness.

Your thoughts?

[leftofcool]

1. See my post "As for me and my house" I just posted it.

[guillaumeb]

2. Look for a social justice group in your area. Join it. Cannot find one? Start one.

I live in the Chicago area, where there are a number of such groups. Illinois is a blue state, but our church based group is working on racial justice issues.

We put on movies, discussion nights, and meet twice monthly for planning, socializing, and support. It is invaluable.

I hope that this helps.

[pennylane100]

3. Joining the ACLU is a great start.

They will definitely fight for the rights of all our citizens. My membership is overdue and you have made me aware of how important it is for us to fund them. I am sure there are some volunteer groups that would welcome you. Organizations that teach English to our newer citizens are often looking for some help.

[Doreen]

4. uh huh

There is not much anyone can really do to help the feeling of fear. The only thing I have going for me is that I am white. I am a woman, overweight, disabled, poor, Buddhist and uneducated. I am scared and the only thing I can do is sit around and wait. I do not have the money to go protest and even though I live in Washington state soon to be Oregon writing my congressmen will still not do any good. We can not really fight against anything until it actually happens.

[Farmgirl1961]

5. I just joined the ACLU...

I don't believe there is a mosque where I live (I will check). There is a Unitarian Universalist congregation where we live...that could be a good place for me to start. There is also a Latino Community Association...another idea to persue.