“Now’s not the time.”
Whenever Black women remind other Black people that we’re being subjected to police brutality and losing our lives as a result of such abuse, that’s the response we’re often given. Although, Black women are routinely killed, beaten and raped by the police. Then it’s watered down into a “unnecessary gender war” when the initial stance was only meant to fight to be included.
Breonna Taylor was murdered in her own home on March 13 in Louisville, Kentucky. In this current state of a pandemic (because we’re still in one, btw), Breonna would be what we call an “essential worker.” However, Breonna was totally disregarded as an essential worker and more importantly, as a human being.
Breonna’s murder was a systematic failure. From the judge that issued the “no knock” warrant (which allows police officers to invade your home without warning and without identifying themselves as law enforcement) to the police officers shooting Breonna eight times in her sleep.
Pictured: Breonna Taylor
This story may seem familiar to some. Kathryn Johnston. Aiyana Jones. Atatiana Jefferson. Korryn Gaines. Just to name a few.
These women, and child, were shot and killed in their own homes. Korryn Gaines was holding her son in her arms while being ambushed by the police. I will never forget logging on twitter and seeing Korryn being blamed for her own execution.
Pictured: Korryn Gaines
Because as a Black woman, I can’t forget Korryn Gaines or Breonna Taylor. If I do forget, who will remember?
I’m angry and I have a right to be angry. I have rights to how I feel. I’m angry at Black men for reasons I don’t have enough characters to list. However, forgetting Black women while simultaneously using us as a stepping stone for liberation is my number one reason for my frustrations.
This isn’t a hate filled call out. I’m just holding you responsible for your actions or lack thereof. That’s an act of love. You should want someone to hold you accountable.
George Floyd’s brother spoke up about the recent uprisings across the nation and claimed that the actions doesn’t reflect his brother nor would it bring George back.
You can say that when you wholeheartedly believe that a movement for Black liberation is all about you. However, I am here to remind everyone that this is bigger than George.
Black Lives Matter dates back four hundred plus years.
Sandra Bland was murdered in police custody and they expected all of us to believe that she committed suicide. Her murderer is still free.
Pictured: Sandra Bland
Breonna Taylor’s murder went without media attention for almost three months. Her murderers are still free.
In Canada, Regis Korchinski-Paquet was thrown to her death at the hands of police officers and her story has been suppressed for obvious reasons. No one seems to care about Black women.
So when we #SayTheirNames, #SayHerName as well. Whoever she is because she deserves to be heard, to be seen.
Because as a Black woman, I can’t forget Korryn Gaines or Breonna Taylor. If I do forget, who will remember?
When you are tweeting “I have a Black son” or “I fear for my Black son” while your daughter is looking at you, you are indirectly telling her that her life doesn’t quite matter. You’re telling her that her fight comes last when the teachings should be that neither comes first.
We can fight for Black lives, of all kind, all at the same time.
The inclusion of Black women’s experiences in police demands around police brutality, media, and social movements are terribly critical to the liberation of Black communities across the world.
So, now is the time. And if it’s not, make time.
