American Tune

AJJ is streaming live shows on Instagram every night and raising money for some great groups in the process. This particular line is from the album, Knife Man, released back in 2011. Sadly, it's still more applicable than ever.

I felt conflicted making this; fearful of jumping on a trend and cheapening the efforts of others, and I'm still a little unsure of what to say. I've seen countless people that look like me write about their anger and their sadness. It's moving, but sharing my feelings on the continuous atrocities of systemic racism feels so inadequate. What could I possibly add to the conversation? I will never know what it's like to be on the other side.

I don't have to worry about being murdered in my own neighborhood. In my own home. I was born into and benefit from a system founded on hate and fear, and I was raised by very apolitical people. But this isn't about politics. It's about other humans having the right to live. And my silence on the matter is an acceptance of the system that denies them that right.

BLACK LIVES MATTER

It's hard to say all of this and not sound like I'm standing on a white savior soap box. But it's safe for me to say it. Just like it's safe for a bunch of idiots with assault rifles to protest for their "right" to spread a virus. So until people like Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and George Floyd have the right to live, I will fight against acceptance and apathy.

If those who benefit from the system never speak out against it, it will never change. ⠀ Fellow white people: talk to other white people about this, especially when it's tough. The fact that we don't have to think about it constantly is proof of our privilege. Shut up and listen to people of color, but remember that it's not their job to educate you. Don't be ignorant. Dont be passive. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Donate if you can. Protest if you can. Sign the petitions. Write to our backwards representatives. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ If this offends you, please reach out to me. I've been avoiding these conversations for far too long, and it's time to talk.