Since George Floyd's murder there has been a lot of reflexive reactions from non-profit institutions around the world trying to play "catch up " when addressing structural racism and inequality within their ranks. While from the outside this is good, many of these institutions unknowingly or knowingly, put the burden of educating and pushing forward these difficult changes on their BIPOC employee's. I cant tell you how many work shops, DEI seminars or diversity conversations ive been asked to be apart of. It can be overwhelming. Frankly I'm tired. I wanted to see if other folks are having similar thoughts and experiences.
I hear you and yes I agree. I try to look at it this way though. For YEARS, I have wanted my voice heard, and now everyone wants to hear it. For me yes it is tiring, but like everything else, it will eventually die down, so I am trying to take advantage of every opportunity while the iron is hot and I have their attention.. If people are really trying to do better, then I will do what I can to help, including when being invited, encouraging them to be careful of not putting the burden of it on their BIPOC friends. We have an opportunity to educate and guide in a way that has NEVER allowed us to do so in the past. We just need to make sure we take care of ourselves. Also, maybe tag team. If someone comes to you and you are tired at the moment and need to emotionally recoup (because it can be tolling on the soul,) graciously decline but offer a colleague that can step in in your place so the opportunity isn't lost. We are all in this together.. Hope this helps. Stand strong, we will get through this. UBUNTU