When I first started social justice work, I thought I should know more before I spoke up. Later, I realized there was never going to be a point where I knew it “enough”. At the time, I thought imperfect action was better than perfect inaction, and I should speak up no matter what. Now, I’m an old grumpy dude with gray hair, I have stumbled upon one of what I call Dr. Tee’s Universal Precepts: It depends.
Sometimes circumstances require that we speak up and take action, no matter what we know or don’t know. And sometimes, we aren’t necessarily equipped to handle what’s happening, so its best if we don’t insert ourselves (for example a man entering a women’s spaces and ends up mansplaining). The key here is that we never stop learning – stretch yourself and push your comfort levels. You liberation and your ability to be an ally depend on it. As does mine.
—
This post is republished on Medium.
Join the #StopRacism FACEBOOK GROUP here.
—
TRENDING POSTS
-
Why Are so Many Successful Men Miserable?
-
Stop Telling People They Have To Unplug For Wellness
-
Create Peace From Nothing
-
Teaching as a Subversive Activity
-
Philosophy Lesson at Walmart
-
Have We Forgotten Our Mortality?
-
The Privilege of Civility
-
7 Ways to Help (and Not Impair) the Grieving After a Tragedy
-
This Is What Tells Me He Loved Me
-
Learning the Language of Lament
-
Sharing a Meat Lovers Pizza and Orange Soda with a Homeless Man
***
Improve your writing, expand your reach, and monetize your craft.
Join The Good Men Project’s Writers’ Community on Patreon.
We welcome all experience levels.
Learn more on our Patreon page.
***
Photo Credit: iStockphoto