I have been absent from social media because I am confused, angry and frustrated. And, I’m sad. I am so sad. Those that know me know I’m all about health and happiness, a good strong cocktail, my customers, the people I love and of course, chickens - not rioting, violence, bigotry, racial profiling, police brutality and murder. I mean, shit. Bhuut, somehow I've missed how I've unknowingly played a part.
Right now, the messaging, to me, is perplexing. To peacefully protest? How I feel about rioting. I’m paying attention to why there is more violence erupting when the message is to end the violence. I'm listening to how racial inequality has gone on far too long. And, I’m listening to perspective on why citizens are taking to the streets in acts of thievery. Like I said: I am confused and frustrated. My heart is heavy. The learning curve is high.
Let me be clear: I do not approve of the intolerable things happening to people of color – and if I need to be specific: black.lives, black.human.lives. The loss and inhumane treatment of people of color, any color, gender or sexual orientation is unacceptable to me. Systemic racism is bullshit and as a culture of advanced humans we have the capacity to re-write the current script. Together.
I am uncomfortable admitting this but here we go: I am mostly living my day-to-day in a white privilege bubble here in Northern California. I’m sitting with the uncomfortable nature of this. For me awareness is the beginning of massive change. Now that I know I can do better.
Perhaps I will lose your business and I’m okay with that. If you find your power in un-subscribing, un-following - I wish you well.
Please: if you know of social media sites, organizations, books, etc that are helping you piece this puzzle together, to find clarity and take actionable steps I’d like to know about them.
Note: In my original post on Instagram I listed the voices I was listening and learning from. That list is fluid and as I learn more, I find is changing.
-Dawn, Treats for Chickens
It is inspiring to witness so many of Nor Cal’s white privilege stepping out of their bubbles and supporting this cause. I am especially proud of the next generation, their voice, their passion and conviction to take the necessary steps to bring equality and justice for all in this country gives me hope. Shamefully it has taken this long and way too many lives lost to perpetuate this aggression and hostility. We as a nation has turned a blind eye to this tragic situation. It is time for all of us to see we are ALL interconnected and interdependent.
I’ve bought your products in the past, almost bought some recently, but didn’t that day because I just couldn’t justify the shipping costs at the time. However, I’m with you and I find your message brave, refreshing and necessary. So many are too scared to admit their feelings or that maybe they were wrong, or just didn’t know. To stand up and admit these things, especially with a business on the line is commendable. You may lose some customers (their loss), but I just wanted to tell you that you’ve gained +1 customer for life. Thank you. Now to go enter the raffle!
Thank you for your words with honesty and an educated perspective.
Thank you for your words with honesty and an educated perspective.
Hi,
I’m in Northern Ca too, so I thought I’d mention Sierra Nevada Revolution on Facebook. You might like the group. Take care,
Kathleen