Making a Difference By Ericka Foster
Survival is its own form of resistance. If you can make it to the end of the day in the same condition that you started, you are doing ok. But as you watch the world’s current events, you may be inspired to get involved. You may not feel comfortable going to a protest and risking a run-in with the law. Below you will find a few suggestions on what you can do. Sign the petition At the time of print, Change.org has 706 petitions related to Black Lives Matter. On this site, users can find petitions related to the causes, or create a petition. This is one of those opportunities to use the internet to your advantage. When enough people have signed the petition, it can be submitted it to decision-makers for change. If you want to create a petition, it is best to have an idea of where you are going to submit the petition, and whether that person or organization can do what you are requesting. Volunteer As you go throughout your day, you’d be surprised at how often you come across places and opportunities to volunteer. You might come across a food drive or a clothing drive at a local church. A podcast that you are interested in may offer information for how to get involved. For example, on Pod Save America, they offer ways for listeners to get involved with the voting process. Reading this magazine, you might find be interested in learning more about F.O.R.T.E. House and how you can get involved. As someone who has been involved in the criminal justice system, you may have come across an organization that has helped you make the transition back into society. You can reach out to them and see how you can help. You can also check the internet. Volunteermatch.org is a website that matches volunteers with organizations that need volunteers. There are other websites that focus on local volunteer opportunities.
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