Taking a Breath Before Action

The Messiah Racial Justice has been very busy over the last few years, but we are in a rare slow period as we pause after the lenten series.

Before we spring into action alongside the first blooms of the season, we thought it would be a good idea to reflect on our racial justice work. It starts with remembering (or learning) about what it means to be an ally. As we commit to being allies we must also make time to care for ourselves. 

Here is a resource from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Learn & Unlearn: an Anti-racism Resource Guide. It has helpful tools, articles and information about every facet of anti-racism work. Under the Wellness section there is a page all about Radical Self-care, which includes definitions, book & podcast suggestions, Ted Talk videos and reflection questions. 

How to be a better ally (from https://mhanational.org/blog/how-to-be-an-ally-in-the-fight-against-racial-injustice-and-for-better-mental-health-for-all/ )

• Do your own work first. This means to educate yourself about the systems of oppression. Read about what it means to be an anti-racist. 
• Listen to the voices of people of color. Invite people to the table and listen to learn. 
• Practice humility. This is not about being the best at understanding the issues. It is not about learning the most, having the most contacts or connections or getting everything right. It is about understanding why our mistakes are mistakes and learning from them. It is about showing that we do not know everything (or even some things). It is about being unassuming and respectful of the people of color and the allyship process. 

How to care for yourself while advocating for others

  (from https://alleo.ai/blog/young-professionals/work-life-balance/how-to-balance-self-care-and-activism-for-social-justice-advocates/ ):

1. Prioritize Self-Care:

• Set Boundaries:
  As an advocate, it's easy to overwork, so establish clear boundaries around your work hours and commitments to protect your well-being.
• Time Management:
  Effective time management can help you feel calmer and better able to manage the numerous tasks you need to complete.
• Say "No":
  Learn to decline requests or commitments that will overload your schedule or negatively impact your health.
• Create Healthy Routines:
  Incorporate simple routines that support your health, such as mindfulness meditation or regular exercise.
• Build a Support System:
  Having the love and support of people in your life can make all the difference, especially when you feel like your responsibilities are piling high. 

2. Stress Management and Well-being:

• Manage Stress:
  Identify your sources of stress and develop healthy coping mechanisms, such as prayer, exercise, relaxation techniques, or spending time in nature. 
• Practice Mindfulness:
  Engage in activities that promote mindfulness and present-moment awareness, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. 
• Focus on Positivity:
  Cultivate a positive mindset and practice gratitude, even during challenging times. 
• Stay Connected:
  Maintain social connections with friends, family, and colleagues to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. 
• More specifically, join a support group or find a mentor who embodies and teaches balance with self-care and activism. 

3. Physical Health:

• Get Regular Exercise:
  Engage in regular physical activity, even if it's just a brisk walk or a quick workout at home. 
• Eat a Balanced Diet:
  Focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. 
• Stay Hydrated:
  Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support your body's functions and maintain energy levels. 
• Prioritize Sleep:
  Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body and mind to rest and rejuvenate. 



Racial Justice Team led by Tara Von Dollen and Tracy Frank