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COVID-19 AND AUTISM

What does the pandemic mean to someone with autism?

The pandemic has been extremely uncertain for us all. However, adjusting to a new routine and all of this change is extremely difficult for children and adults with autism, and other learning other disabilities.

In the UK, there are around 700,000 people on the autism spectrum. An additional 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability.  Children with autism may not completely understand the severity of the virus. They may find it difficult to follow the rules and adapting to home-schooling can be even more challenging. The media is very focused on only sharing specific content when it comes to the virus. Therefore, I thought it was important to share what the virus means to someone with autism and how it has affected them.

The pandemic has caused confusion, fear and anxiety and this is heightened for those with autism and other learning disabilities. During this time there has been an immense amount of sudden change. I interviewed my cousin Manav and his mum about how they have coped during this time.

Understanding the virus:

Manav, age 14, has autism and ADHD and so the pandemic has severely affected him. This has even caused a change in personality, due to the new feelings he has been experiencing. We know and can understand how severe coronavirus is, but I wanted to know what the virus meant to Manav. He said: “it’s a disease like spreading virus around and there are symptoms like cough, cold, smell and taste goes.” Manav has been spending his time at home watching the news and understanding the symptoms of coronavirus as well as the rules.

Image – Unsplash – United Nations COVID-19 Response
Thrown out of routine:

The pandemic resulted in schools shutting from March 20th. Manav said “it was horrible, it was upsetting not seeing my friends” as he was thrown out of routine abruptly. He also spoke about how working from home is very difficult as they don’t have the same facilities that a special needs school provides.  Manav said: “I was feeling very sad and frustrated.”

Lack of Governmental support:

The Government hasn’t done much to help those with learning difficulties. Trusha, Manav’s mum explained that “they have done nothing at all”. An education health and care plan were established. This allowed Manav and others with learning disabilities to be able to go school. However, at this time, the number of deaths was extremely high. Many questioned about sending their children to school due to the high risk. Keeping children at home and in lockdown seemed like the safer option. During lockdown carers could come to the house but there was a lack of PPE at this time in March, so it was too risky to take advantage of this. After doing some research I have only found care packages online and advice which the government has provided. Therefore, the government should have provided more time to see how else they could have helped special needs children.

Struggles at home:

Although it has been hard being at home for all of us. Dealing with the frustration and uncertainty is more difficult for those with autism. Manav said: “I am very sad, the coronavirus has stopped everything like dancing, swimming, yoga, holidays, seeing my friends and family”. 

For Manav, not being able to socialise with people has been the hardest part of lockdown and dealing with the circumstances surrounding the virus. However, the best part has been the increased family time with Manav explaining that “spending more time with my mum and dad has been nice”. 

Going back to school:

In June, many schools reopened and Manav went in three times a week for a change of atmosphere. This helped to improve his mental health after being at home for so long. Before going back, guidelines were sent out, emphasising to students that “going back to school will be different”. It was important for students to understand that everyone couldn’t come to school every day. Markings were added to fence posts to help the children stay at a safe distance from each other. Hand gel was put in place for the children. Further rules were implemented to ensure that everyone kept washing their hands throughout the day.

coronavirus
Image – Unsplash – United Nations COVID-19 Response

It was also important for children to understand that they were not allowed to hug or be close to each other. This can be difficult for those with autism as autistic children love showing affection towards their peers. It is a lot of information for autistic children to digest and can be an overwhelming experience to settle again. 

Whilst at home, Manav’s school has also been very supportive. This was especially at times when Manav was feeling extremely low, thus more aid from the government would have been appreciated. 

Manav said: “I found the PPE scary; it is very different now and we have to wash our hands all of the time, wear mask and gloves, everything really is made me frustrated”. However, after going back to school, Manav has seen an improvement in his mental health, but with it now being the summer holidays, he can’t help but feel frustrated again.

From a mother’s perspective:

There have been meltdowns which is understandable as processing constant new information and conforming to new rules is hard to adjust to. Trusha explained that at the beginning it was a big struggle but Manav has been enjoying “chilling a lot, watching TV and sitting in the garden. Trusha and Raju said: “lockdown has made him irritable and it has been hard to stick to a new routine”.  Emotions have been heightened and she said that she has seen “a new Manav”. Although the changes in personality have been both good and bad, she is thankful to have had more time with him despite the challenges.

Thoughts for the future:

Dealing with the uncertainty is infuriating and Manav does have anxiety when it comes to seeing people with the new rules. Also remembering the small things like using soap when constantly washing his hands is irritating.

Despite this, he is “excited to go to school in September and make new friends” as this keeps his mind off of the virus. For all children with learning disabilities this time has been testing, but it has also been a time of reflection, where we have all learnt so much.

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FAST FASHION: What is going on in the fashion industry?

fast fashion
fast fashion

Fast fashion has always been an important topic. However, with recent events circulating on the media I wanted to raise awareness and also educate others on how we should reject fast fashion in any ways we can, big or small. 

What is fast fashion?

Fast fashion is essentially fashion that keeps up to date with the current trends. It can be described as cheap and trendy clothing that is quickly coming in and out of style seasonally but also weekly. Major fast fashion retailers constantly introduce new products, multiple times a week, in order to stay on trend. Their clothes soon become outdated and unfashionable and which in turn leaves customers constantly wanting to shop for new, trendier clothes. 

We are all enablers of fast fashion. If we go through our wardrobes, most of our clothing is from fast fashion brands because paying for high fashion at a low cost is more appealing and convenient. We maximise profits for these fast fashion companies which attracts customers thanks to their ability to mimic luxury fashion trends despite having a very short life span. Fast fashion items are designed to be deliberately cheap and low-quality, thus inevitably disposable. It is important that we are aware of the issues surrounding fast fashion in order to help. 

PAYUP:

Fast fashion uses cheap labour that is often sourced from sweatshops. The workers suffer in inhumane working conditions for extremely long hours only to receive a shockingly low wage. 

In Bangladesh over 4.1 million, 85% of whom are women, are garment workers who are not being paid (@nabela on Instagram). The workers are being exploited by some of your favourite fast fashion brands such as Primark, Forever 21, GAP etc. Workers have been pushed into extreme poverty and are at risk of being homeless. They are underpaid and work in unsanitary conditions. The exploitation of Bangladeshi workers has been an ongoing issue for decades and manufacturers are still inhumanely treating their workers.  

#PayUp was created on social media to raise awareness which was launched by Remake, to pressure brands to pay Bangladeshi factories. Sign the #PayUp petition.

Image credit @ Remake
Why is Boohoo trending?

You may have noticed that the company Boohoo is trending all over social media. 

The Sunday Times revealed that Boohoo is facing a slavery investigations as workers in Leicester are producing clothes with a wage of only £3.50 per hour.

This means that the garment workers are not getting paid minimum wage. In the UK, minimum wage for those 25 and over is £8.72. It is appalling that they are not meeting the minimum wage which is a legal requirement. 

Boohoo and the pandemic:

The factories in Leicester have been operating despiteLeicester being in a localised lockdown, and even when the nation was in full lockdown. Leicester factories, mostly producing for Boohoo, have been putting workers at risk of COVID-19 infections. The factories have also not been following social distancing rules and have had a lack of PPE for workers. According to a report by “Labourbehindthelabel”, Boohoo sources 60-70% of its production from Leicester but during the pandemic this has increased to around 80%. Boohoo has profited during the pandemic with sales being up by 45% in the last three months up to May.

Since the allegations have been out, Next and ASOS have dropped Boohoo clothing from their website. However, during this pandemic, sales have increased so much that bosses are in line for a £150 million bonus. Boohoo Group PLC owns, PrettyLittleThing, NastyGal, BoohooMAN, MissPap, Karen Millen, Oasis, Warehouse and Coast and the fashion retailer group is now valued at more than $4.3 billion (businessinsider). There is so much that they must do to help.

Read below for their statement regarding the situation: 
What you can do to help:

Understandably, not everyone can afford to shop at sustainable friendly brands. It is not completely possible for everyone to be able to completely cut out fast fashion. However, there are changes that we can make to help avoid fast fashion.

“I have nothing to wear” – We all say this, especially when we have an upcoming event, but this does not mean we should buy new clothes. Instead, cleaning out your wardrobe, revisiting old pieces and adapting them to your style.

“Quality over quantity” – Buy staple pieces. Invest in clothes that you need and will use, ensuring that they are durable and will last. This will also allow you to be more creative with your wardrobe.

“Stop impulse buying” – Try shopping less, especially online when there is always a sale, influencer partnerships and latest trends being released weekly. Trying to cut out impulse buying can make a huge difference.

“Buy second hand” – Instead of constantly buying new clothes, look at alternative options. With platforms such as Depop becoming increasingly popular, and young people are being encouraged to shop sustainably. This can also include thrift stores, flea markets, other second-hand apps and repairing/reinventing new clothes. 

Follow accounts to educate yourself:

I also got in contact with Becky also known as @theniftythrifter_on Instagram. Becky uses her account to share her sustainable and secondhand style, but also uses her platform to educate people on the problems surrounding fast fashion and ways to be more sustainable. I wanted to share some of her advice.

Becky says: “everyone is on their own journey. It may take some people longer to break up with fast fashion than others.  To start off with I would say to stop HAULS – honestly hate everything about that word these days! There is simply no need to haul new clothes (some exceptions do pertain). If you are still buying fast fashion – think about what you really need and buy only one or two items that you really think you’ll wear and cherish.”

As mentioned above, Becky also advises consumers to shop through Depop or Vinted. “Both shops have an array of second-hand that are priced reasonably,” she explains.  

She also mentioned the importance of supporting small businesses and Black-owned businesses. Becky also suggested other alternatives of swapping clothes and reinventing the ones you already own. Becky recommends following @thedresschange on Instagram, “a Black-owned business that promotes the importance of the swap!”

However, she wants people to understand that it is okay if you cannot eradicate fast fashion entirely. Becky explained that we should be attempting to make more sustainable choices. She says “If you can’t buy sustainably all the time the best thing you can do is assess how much you buy. This works for both fast fashion shopping and buying second-hand. Do you really need it? Is it going to be something that you will wear often? Is this something you really love?”

“Buy less, Choose well, Make it last” – Vivienne Westwood

Whilst researching for this article, keeping up-to-date with the news and browsing through social media there is so much that I have learnt and that I am still learning. We can all do the same. Making small changes can make a big difference so I hope that this is an eye-opener.

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Lockdown stories our media doesn’t share

key workers
key workers

What our key workers think about COVID-19 and how their lives have changed:

As we cross the threshold of 100 days in lockdown, it is important that we appreciate those who have been directly fighting the virus. Whether it be our key workers on the frontline or those behind the scenes providing us with our essentials. I wanted to share their lockdown stories.

Time has flown by since the panic buying, everyone rushing back to their family homes, and not being allowed to see family and friends. That has been the norm for the majority of people in the UK. However, we must recognise what our key workers have and still are experiencing, as they battle the virus hand on, as well as other key workers who have had to face the scrutiny of the public.

I interviewed a few key workers to understand their perspective. There is so much that the media and our own government doesn’t tell us. I wanted to write this piece, so people are aware of what our key workers have gone through and still are. Some who I interviewed have asked to remain anonymous.

Being an ITU Support Nurse during COVID-19:

It was extremely important to me to get in contact with a key worker on the frontline. Someone who has been risking their life to save others on a daily basis. However, a nurse that I spoke to explained that this is her job and purpose; this is something she would be doing regardless, just fighting at a greater degree. Previously as a theatre recovery nurse, but since COVID-19 an ITU support nurse, she explained to me what it is like working in ITU (intensive treatment unit) with critically ill positive COVID patients.

When asked about how she felt when she first learnt about COVID-19 she said: “I didn’t think it was going to be anything.” A very similar response to what the nation was thinking back in early March, naïve to the severity of the situation thinking that it would “come and go very quickly”. 

This was not the case. Changes were immediately made at work, as she shifted from part-time to full-time. Shift patterns were altered, having to adapt to 13-hour long days, but also working nights and weekends. In addition to these changes, it was required to learn very quickly how to use ventilators and of course for this nurse learning how to use ITU equipment after the sudden change from usually working as a theatre recovery nurse.

Mental health and juggling home life:

Working as an ITU support nurse is extremely challenging and can take a toll on your mental health. The nurse said: “To begin with I didn’t think my mental health was affected, I cruised through, but further along I’ve dealt with sad stories and felt a lot lower. I didn’t want to go to work as I felt anxious.” Alongside these feelings, as a mother she has had to juggle home-schooling. Although as a key worker, her child could have gone into school, her child is diagnosed with ADH. She decided that it wouldn’t have worked. A new school setting is difficult to settle into and therefore home-schooling was the only option.

Being labelled as a keyworker:

The term keyworker can be interpreted in many ways. For some it is honourable but for others they don’t quite understand the labelling as it is their job! This nurse explained that “nursing is nursing” and said: “I didn’t like it because it is my job, and this is what I get paid to do.” She also showed compassion for those who have lost their jobs and haven’t gotten any praise. In addition, she found the clapping “awkward” as there are so many other people who deserve recognition.

Challenges and thoughts for the future:

Fighting against COVID-19 is extremely difficult and can be disheartening at times even when you are trying your hardest. The nurse said: “I am d43567oing everything I can, knowing most of them are going to die regardless of what I do.”

Working on the frontline is exhausting, pressurising and it is frustrating when non-key workers don’t realise this. Although the death rate is decreasing and lockdown restrictions are being eased, it important for non-key workers to realise that their actions have massive consequences. 

She said that the unit is almost back to their limit which is overwhelming. Having just got rid of every critical patient, the unit is starting to get full again. She thinks that the government has eased the lockdown too early, confusing the nation with the guidelines and could have done a lot more to help.

She said: “A lot more people without their families in the unit who die without saying goodbye.” Those who break guidelines are making hospital admissions higher and it is vital that people understand this.

Photo by United Nations “COVID-19 Response” on Unsplash

Although these times have and still are difficult, she has learnt that “family is the most important thing”.  She explained that on a day-to-day basis, we really do take our family and friends for granted. Having gratitude for a more basic life is something that she has personally learnt during this time. 

However, she said: “I hate my job right now, but I will like it when it becomes normal again.”

Working as a dental nurse and epidemiology field worker:

I also wanted to interview a dental nurse as they were not allowed to see patients face to face. As a dental nurse, this job requires assisting the dentist in all aspects of the patient’s journey and epidemiology involves gathering statistics for public health England to determine the health of teeth within the local area.

A change in lifestyle:

When first learning of COVID-19, Leanne said she was “very scared” because of the uncertainty. She said: “I guess it didn’t really hit home until the schools shut and we went into lockdown.” Leanne was grateful that the companies she worked for were flexible with the situation as she was in a position where she had no childcare for her two children.

Like the majority of the nation, she became obsessed with cleanliness, constantly using hand gel and ensuring that her children were not touching things when they were out. Leanne said she struggled to become a stay at home mum, working part-time as a teacher as well as a nurse, summarising it as a “juggling act”. However, she was able to create her own pro-active educational tasks including growing frogspawn!

The highs and low:

As a key worker it is frustrating as non-key workers don’t use gloves and masks properly. As for the government she described it as them “winging it”, guessing what to do with their plans and being questionable. Leanne said: “it all feels quite surreal still”, as she faces challenges when doing her food shop. However, she feels as if her job has a purpose and therefore is happy being labelled as a key worker. 

Overall Leanne explained how she doesn’t believe anything will go back to normal for a while. She said: “I can’t really see the light at the end of the tunnel yet and just feel I can’t do what I enjoy anymore.” Nevertheless, Leanne is grateful to still have a job and to be able to help people during this hard time.

Honouring our shop workers:

I interviewed two retail managers working in ASDA to understand how they have coped during this time. At first, they said that they were scared and didn’t know what to expect in retail especially with the panic buying. Social distancing was put into place, PPE for staff and they were having to control customers and their behaviours when rules were not followed. 

The pair said: “Working is not physically tiring, just mentally as we have to think twice.”

Photo by Richard Burlton on Unsplash

However, they are flattered to be known as keyworkers as someone has to do this job even if it means being exposed and at risk.

Lessons we should take from this:

Although restrictions have eased, the way we shop hasn’t changed. As retail managers they explained that people need to respect each other more. They have had experiences with nasty customers, some who threatened them when not following the guidelines which they said was “frustrating”. 

They said: “over the last 14 weeks it has been tough, and it still is tough.” Working in the shops means that every day is different, they don’t know who will follow rules and who will disobey. As restrictions begin to ease, they say that they are still “uncertain about the virus”.

Overall:

As lockdown restrictions are easing, I hope people realise that the virus hasn’t disappeared. There is a long way to go still and although it seems like a sense of “normality” has come back, remember those who are still battling the virus on the frontline and our many other key workers. These were just a few stories that I had the opportunity to share but there are so many people we should honour for tirelessly working during this pandemic.

This Sunday also marks 72 years since the NHS and social care system was established. 2020 has been the most challenging year for the NHS as they continue to battle coronavirus. So, on behalf of them, and all our key workers, wear a mask, continue to social distance and stay safe.

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Superb summer sides, salads and a sangria to spice up any summer spread

Written by Anna Fox

We may not be jet setting to our favourite holiday destinations just yet, however these scrumptious summer recipes will transport your taste buds to a place of tranquillity. Whether you’re a staycation supporter, profoundly fond of France or an advocate of the Amalfi coast, these dishes will delight family and friends alike. So, don that apron with pride, wash those hands (hygiene please) and conquer the kitchen you cooking connoisseur. 

Focaccia 

If you sigh at the sight of another millennial that has succumbed to their sourdough starter, as you sob over your cremated creation, fear not this focaccia will console your bread baking fatalities. 

Focaccia is an Italian flat bread made with olive oil and can be decorated with an array of tasty toppings. 

Makes: 1 large or 4 mini Focaccia

Ingredients:

  • 350g plain white flour 
  • ½ teaspoon of salt 
  • 2 teaspoons of easy-blend yeast 
  • 210ml of warm water 
  • 1 ½ tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil 
  • Optional toppings: sprigs of rosemary, sliced olives, sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped garlic cloves, blue cheese, rock salt

Method:

  1. Preheat your oven 220 Celsius/200 Celsius fan/gas 7
  2. Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl, then add the yeast and combine.
  3. Next, pour in the warm water and 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil and mix everything into a dough.
  4. Lightly flour a surface and place the dough onto it. 
  5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes or 5 minutes if you are using an electric mixer with a dough hook. 
  6. Then, lightly oil the bowl and place the dough back in. Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel and leave it in a warm place until it has doubled in size (roughly 1- 1 ½ hours).
  7. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto the work-surface and knead again for 2-3 minutes. 
  8. If you are making one large focaccia, pat the dough into an oval shape of 30 x25 cm or for four mini focaccia’s shape into four 10 x 7.5cm, and place onto an oiled baking sheet/tray.
  9. Next, add your toppings and sprinkle with sea salt. Cover with a damp tea towel and leave the dough to rise again for 30 minutes. 
  10. Bake the breads in the oven for around 15 minutes or until they are golden, then cool on a wire rack.
  11. Serve warm with an optional dipping bowl of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

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Cream Tea 

A clotted cream scone smothered in scrumptious strawberry jam is a superb summer snack. Park your scone or scone debacle at the kitchen counter and leave your Cornish or Devon debate at the door, these scones can be devoured with jam and cream whilst soaking up the summer sun (with a cup of tea of course!).

Makes: 4 Scones

Ingredients:

  • 350g self-raising flour, plus more for dusting
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 85g of butter, cut into cubes
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 3 tablespoon caster sugar
  • 175ml milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • squeeze lemon juice (see Know-how below)
  • 1 beaten egg to glaze
  • jam and clotted cream, to serve

Method: 

  1. Preheat your oven to 220 Celsius/200 Celsius fan/gas 7 
  2. Place 350g of self-raising flour into a bowl, with ¼ teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking powder, then combine.
  3. Weigh out 85g of butter, cube it, and add it to the bowl. Then, using your fingers rub together the butter and flour mixture, until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. 
  4. Stir in 3 tablespoons of caster sugar 
  5. Place 175ml of milk into a jug and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, until warm, but not hot.
  6. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla and a squeeze of lemon juice to the milk (this mimics buttermilk, which is traditionally used in scones, as it helps to boost the raising agents in the flour and baking powder). 
  7. Place a baking tray into the oven
  8. Create a well in the middle of the dry mixture and add the liquid.
  9. Using your hand with open fingers, lightly combine the mixture until it resembles a sticky dough. 
  10. Lightly flour a work surface and place the dough onto it. then shape the dough until it is roughly 4cm deep.
  11. Grab a 5cm smooth edged cutter and dip it into some flour. Place the cutter into the dough, until you have four scones.
  12. Brush the dough with a beaten egg and carefully place them onto the preheated baking tray. 
  13. Bake the scones for 10 minutes or until risen and golden brown.
  14. Serve with clotted cream and jam and an obligatory cup of English breakfast tea!

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Sangria 

Sipping sangria on a sandy Spanish beach may be distant daydream of a bygone era, however, don’t stick to sipping that Stella, spice up your cocktail repertoire with this super simple sangria. 

Makes: 4 Cups 

Ingredients: 

  • 60g of apples (cored, skin on, chopped into small pieces)
  • 65g of oranges (rind on, sliced into small pieces, large seeds removed // plus more for garnish)
  • 41-55g organic brown sugar
  • 180ml orange juice (plus more to taste)
  • 80ml brandy (plus more to taste)
  • 750ml bottle dry Spanish red wine
  • 217g Ice to chill

Method:

  1. Place the apples, oranges and sugar into a large jug and stir with a wooden spoon for 45 seconds.
  2. Add the orange juice and brandy and stir for a further 30 seconds.
  3. Pour the red wine into the jug and combine, then adjust the flavour to suit your palate.
  4. Tip the ice into the jug and stir once more to chill.
  5. Store leftovers in a covered jug and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. 

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Greek salad

A traditional Greek salad is an amalgamation of the season’s top-quality produce, including juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, bell peppers and red onions. Usually served from early spring to early autumn, the salad is jewelled with large chunks of feta cheese and christened with kalamata olives, then drenched in a divine dressing of extra virgin olive oil and citrus, truly divine. 

Serves: 6 people 

Ingredients: 

  • 4 medium juicy tomatoes
  • 1 Cucumber, partially peeled making a striped pattern
  • 1 green bell pepper, cored and sliced
  • 1 medium red onion
  • Greek pitted Kalamata olives
  • A pinch of salt 
  • 4 tbsp quality extra virgin olive oil (I used Early Harvest Greek olive oil)
  • 1–2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  •  Blocks of Greek feta (do not crumble) a good amount to your liking
  • 1/2 tbsp quality dried oregano

Method: 

  1. Cut the tomatoes into large chunks or wedges. 
  2. Then, partially peel the cucumber, and slice in half, length wise, then half again, then chop into chunks.
  3. Thinly slice the pepper into large rings.
  4. Then, cut the red onion in half and thinly slice into a half moon.
  5. Place the prepared ingredients into a large salad bowl, then add the kalamata olives.
  6. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pour over the olive oil and red wine vinegar. 
  7. Gently combine the salad.
  8. Add the chunks of feta cheese and sprinkle the dried oregano.
  9. Serve alongside crusty pitta breads.

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Mango Salsa 

This salsa will elevate your chip and dip game to a heavenly level. Smother this sexy salsa on fish tacos or serve alongside a chunky guacamole with a substantial serving of oozing cheesy nachos. 

Makes: 3 Cups 

Ingredients: 

  • 3 ripe mangos, diced 
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
  • 64g of thinly chopped red onion
  • 32g of packed fresh coriander leaves, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (or red chilli)
  • 1 large lime, juiced (about ¼ cup lime juice)
  • ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon salt, to taste

Method:

  1. In a bowl, add the diced mango, chopped red pepper, sliced onion, coriander, and jalapeño.
  2. Drizzle the juice of one lime over the contents of the bowl.
  3. Combine the salsa with a large spoon, and season with salt.

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Anna has also used lockdown as a time to create her food Instagram account! Be sure to give it a follow!

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Innovation in Isolation:

Eleana
Eleana

Written by Eleana Ntagia

Things you should know before you start your new social media platform!

Eleana decided to use lockdown as a time to build her Instagram page. She posts about her passion for fashion and beauty. In this article she gives out tips and tricks to grow a successful Instagram platform.

Hello, my name is Eleana, I am 20 years old and I study journalism. In this article, we will discuss about beauty and fashion. I will be explaining how I started my beauty and fashion Instagram account and I will be showcasing different ways on how you could combine your everyday clothes in your wardrobe to create different outfits.

Instagram @eleanantagia

I hope to share a good insight into the concepts of beauty and fashion. These are only a few things I wish I knew before I started my account. I am still new on the platform, but I aim to grow with the new content I am working on. For me, the best way to approach this was to ask myself what is beauty and what does it mean to me? Weirdly enough I have never really thought about it. So, go ahead and ask yourself what is beauty to you?

A little bit about myself:

Growing up, I was not always into fashion and beauty so let me tell you a little bit about myself and how I got into it. When I was young, I used to do lots of activities so dresses and skirts were not my favourites. I used to hate dressing up despite my mother’s efforts. Coming into my teenage years, I started enjoying playing around with clothes and making an everyday outfit look elegant. Since then, I have been teaching myself more about outfit combinations-more specifically being colour oriented.

Being in my early 20s now, fashion has become my passion. I spend a lot of time researching about new innovative products and clothes to add in my collection. Being over the top comes from my Greek routes. Culturally, in Greece we take pride in our stylish outfits as we love to dress up. 

One of the reasons I decided to go into journalism is because I absolutely love vlogging my life. I am known for the annoying friend that documents everything and I think this is the right time to give you a glimpse of my lifestyle.

A little insight on how to start: 

I recently decided to start a new Instagram account showcasing my wardrobe and beauty products.  I have always wanted to do it, but I was never confident enough. Also, I would like to think am a perfectionist so if I want to do something it has to be perfect or it does not work for me. Lockdown has pushed me into being more creative and into exploring myself and my style a bit more. I love styling different pieces, dressing up and taking pictures. Finding clothes in my wardrobe that I have never worn has further sparked my creativity!

Here are a few tips on how to start:
1. DESIGN YOUR OUTFITS –

Before I started my account, I planned enough content for a week, and had extra outfits planned for the future. With all the shops being closed, I have decided to showcase clothes I already have in my wardrobe. However, I do admit that if the shops were open I would of possibly go out to buy some new outfits as well. As we all know, most fashion recycles so any old pieces you have in your wardrobe could be trendy again at some point. 

2. DESIGN YOUR WORKSPACE –

Besides your outfits, the environment you work with is very important! This is why I had to work around with my workspace. I organised my room to look more aesthetically pleasing and disposed a lot of things I did not need to free up space. That made it easier for me to take pictures and create my videos as I did not have to move everything around. 

3. WORK WITH YOUR LIGHTING!

Lighting is crucial for photo shooting and vlogs, hence why I decided to invest in a ring light. You can find affordable, good quality products on online or on amazon. This will improve the quality of the pictures. Lots of my friends ask me what camera I use to shoot my content with and honestly, I use my iPhone camera. It has got a high-quality resolution hence why I am not willing to spend more on a professional one just yet. I recommend that you do not spend a lot on unnecessary photography kits if you will not use them professionally. Most of the time I find myself using natural light so I would suggest that you start working in the mornings.

4. HAVE A ROUTINE AND A PLAN –

Planning is everything. Being consistent with your work and preparing future contents ahead will relieve you of stress and uncertainty. I have found it will also give you more time to edit your content and you can always reshoot if you are not happy with the results. Sometimes however, I do not always feel like putting makeup on, doing my hair, and getting dressed up. Therefore, planning could allow giving yourself a few days off. Throughout the nice weather I found myself spending more time outside with my family, so it is always good to have pre-shoot content. 

5. PHOTOGRAPHY –

Usually my brother or my mum take the pictures of me. However, if they are both busy, I use my iPhone’s self-timer camera function. I would suggest you work with your angles as much as possible and see which poses work best for you. That way you spend more time perfecting that pose and taking more content. 

I usually like to shoot more than one outfit, all from different angles. Also, to make the pictures look different I change my hairstyle or add a different lipstick. 

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6. BE CONSISTENT –

Most importantly you must be consistent. The more you post the more exposure you get. I sometimes find myself too lazy or not motivated enough to post stories every day and that is something I am working on improving. 

7. USE ALL THE TOOLS ON INSTAGRAM –

For instance, I have decided to do more Instagram videos (IGTVS). That has improved my editing skills and has made me want to work more on how to make them look more professional. In addition, this will help my journalism career by improving my video editing skills.

Why I started:

Studying journalism was not always an obvious choice for me. It was not until my college years that journalism and vlogging drew my attention. The high competitiveness of the field and the limited opportunities in the country is always a concern. However, the support of my family and friends has encouraged me to follow my dream of being a successful journalist. During my first year in university, I thought it would be a good idea to link social media with journalism and have a page where I can express my thoughts on style and beauty.

I feel like when it comes to journalism engagement is key. You must be on the lookout of what is going on in the world and the fastest way to do that is online.

Enough with all the boring stuff. Let us get down to presenting you with 4 of my go to outfits for casual occasions. 

Fashion Lookbook:
Explaining the outfits:

The 4 different outfits/ways I present you, showcase how you could combine a pair of plain black jeans with various outfits. 

Outfit one is a very casual everyday outfit. You can always switch it up and wear it with any casual t-shirt. You can dress it up with accessories and a nice coat or you can dress it down by wearing it how I have.

Outfit two is smart casual. I feel like a shirt always dresses any outfit up and makes it look smarter. Also, you can throw in a pair of loafers and the leather jacket to make the outfit look chic and classy. I know that lots of my friends would not wear loafers so you can switch it up for a pair of ankle boots. 

Outfit three is my favourite. I would wear this outfit anywhere! The trick to make it look casual is to roll up the sleeves to make the outfit more comfortable.  To complete your look, roll the sweatshirt up so can see the shirt. 

Finally outfit four is something I wear a lot to go out for drinks. I would only wear the bandeau top only during summer. If you are planning on wearing this outfit when the weather is not on your side, I would switch it up for either a bodysuit or a nice blouse. The blazer makes the outfit look smart and it is a nice little cover up. 

Overall:

Hope this article has given you a little insight on how to start and encouraged you to pursue fashion passion. I would love to have you with me on my fashion journey so if you are interested, follow my Instagram account to see my latest content. 

Categories
Guest Articles

Afrophobia: The next level of debate people are afraid to have

Israel Campos
Israel Campos

Written by Israel Campos

The conversation has to keep happening:

The truth, urgency and real need for this conversation has been so trivialised in recent times. I confess that it even “embarrasses” me, in a way, to give voice to this cry of freedom by so many acclaimed. Still, the aggressiveness that the impact of racism has on all those affected by it, like me, does not allow me to shut up in the frustration of silence. On the contrary, it only encourages me even more to speak out.

I fear that these lines will be immediately directed, right by its title, to the “race card box”. Yes! That ignored complaint box – that no one will ever read; purposely created to perpetuate a system that turns victims into the problem and lovingly normalises the real problem. But the weight of my day-to-day reality does not allow me, however much I try, to do it differently.

With David Lammy – British Labour Party politician
The beginning of it:

I remember, exactly, as if it was today. Of that excited young boy, even before turning 18, who flew from his city, Luanda, to set foot in the lands of Her Majesty for the first time. He was bringing a lot of enthusiasm and hope in his suitcase as well as many uncertainties. Of course, I can’t forget the first impression, the one that is recorded forever and ever. Having been held by the airport board force for more than three hours. This was only for one reason: not knowing how to speak English. Even when all the information requested and needed was written in the documents I had with me.

My first days in the UK were painful. From homesickness, to missing the warm weather, but above all for feeling literally like a fish out of water. Even worse in a city like Exeter where seeing a black person walking the streets can be as rare as hens’ teeth.

Prejudices:

However, my problem was never so much and essentially with the lack of racial diversity in the spaces I used to go to – despite its great importance. It is the prejudices that were associated with black people that were there. The way this was reflected in the treatment they received by others. In other words, more than the lack of racial diversity, what worried me the most was the racism itself; despite being aware that one can come from another.

In my first three weeks in this country, I remember finding myself searching on the internet for things like “black idols in the UK” or “books on race in the UK”. There I was, that boy who had no idea what being black could mean in a society like the British. As he came from a society where being black was the norm. Therefore it represented nothing to him. It even reminds me of the writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her similar experience when she first arrived in the United States of America.

A difference that you need to learn:

After some time, I got used to it. That is, I entered the so-called naturalisation of the oppression system until I “met”, via a friend that loved her, the writer Reni Eddo-Lodge. I read her book “Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race”. This revolutionised my perspectives on certain actions before seen by me as only individuals practices. This book made me understand the bigger picture. I learnt how the benefits associated with systemic racism are fundamental to the perpetuation of the state of affairs.

More than that, it was also possible to understand another reality that is almost nonexistent in the debates about the racist structure within the UK. Reni Eddo-Lodge is a British black writer. That’s why whilst reading her book, I saw fundamentally the narrative of racism in the UK; being told by her experiences point of view, as a black Brit and all those who identify themselves in this way.

Although I found some common denominators between her experience on what it is to be black in the UK and my own; it is very clear for me that I could not find my experience fully represented in the book, under the lens of a black African living in the UK.

Believe it or not, being a black British born and being a black African born in the UK has a completely different meaning.

It may not seem like it, because in the eyes of some we are all black. Therefore, we are all the same but in reality, it does not work like that.

Afrophobia is a problem that has been systematically ignored in the UK. This is despite the visible effects it has on the lives of many Africans in the country; many of whom are not even refugees but legal immigrants or international students.

As an example, I remember all those friends of mine, who went to the same college as me here. They were mostly Nigerians or South Africans, therefore native English speakers, and who were still obliged to take the IELTS test, which is an English language test intended for “non-native speakers”.

Or even of all the times that someone laughed at my accent; for being considered too “aggressive”, or “funny” or “disturbing”.

Why talking about it matters:

Afrophobia is a “burden” present in the daily lives of many Africans in this country. It is being treated as less intelligent as soon as your nationality is discovered. Or perceived as speaking “wrong English” when you want to get information from the NHS desk, for example.

It is to be the “dancing-member” of your group of friends from university. The one that is always told off when don’t wanna do so because “Africans love to dance”, don’t they? 

It is beyond having to explain that Africa is not a country but a continent, every time someone calls you African instead of your nationality.

It is above all having to deal daily with the ignorance. This is of those who deliberately feel the right to underestimate the existence, value and sensitivity not of a race but of an all continent to which Europe and its citizens should dedicate everything, just not more hate and disrespect.

Including Afrophobia in the general discussion of racism in the UK is an imperative. So that we can make the fight more inclusive; and to ensure that no one from the oppressed groups is left out.

Categories
BLOG

2020 is NOT cancelled

positive vibes
positive vibes

Six months into 2020 – Here’s what I think:

It is fair to say that 2020 so far has been a historical year that we most definitely won’t forget. A lot has been circulating the news and social media right from the start which has been overwhelming. From the Australian fires, WW3 threats, the loss of many iconic celebrities, the on-going pandemic, many countries silently suffering and of course the most important civil rights movement to date. However, 2020 is NOT cancelled. Every month it seems to be getting heavier and heavier but only as we are finally starting to realise our problems that have been avoided for centuries.

I feel as though most anticipated 2020 to be the best year yet. We all had so many goals and ambitions set out. The most important aspect I’ve learnt is the importance of accepting that it is okay to slow down and open my eyes to what is happening around me. We often race far ahead to reach the next step, rather than accepting what is happening right in front of you. Paying attention to what is happening in front of us right now is the most important thing.

2020 seems like an on- going nightmare, but it was about time that the world woke up and faced the truth.

The global pandemic:

An obvious one as it is still happening… but here is my reflection on it. Although it is a hard and different time, it is okay to feel like you are stuck and trapped. Nearly four months since we have been quarantining. But, I think we must remember that it is out of our control, but what is in our control, is what we decide to do with this time. It is a time to focus on bettering yourself. Do everything you wanted to but without all of the side distractions, that way you’ll come out stronger on the other side.

An awakening:

Yes, the last few weeks have been difficult for so many people because they have realised that there is so much wrong with this world. My heart still hurts as I’ve been learning so much that I was also blind to. There is so much hate and injustice in this world. We are meant to see each other as equals. Change is necessary and it is upsetting seeing names constantly becoming hashtags and seeing human life repeatedly being disregarded. We must continue to use our privilege to end this social injustice. Yes, I believe as a generation we have done something big, we have been loud and made some change but there is so much more for us to do. Continuing to educate ourselves and others is crucial. There is so much hate and suffering that the media doesn’t shed a light on. Continue reading, sharing and taking action.

Below is a link to ways you can help Yemen and the BLM movement:

https://linktr.ee/waystohelpblmandyemen

Trying to be optimistic yet socially aware:

I’m not entirely sure where this quote originates from however, it has been circulating on my social media. “How exciting is it, that some of your best days haven’t even happened to you yet”. I think this is so important. Especially during this time, we must be optimistic yet realistic. We often forget that there is still so much life ahead of us, so much time for the adventures that we are missing out on now, spontaneity and so many memories that are yet to happen. These memories are waiting for you.

The ever-lasting uncertainty:

Recently I have been feeling very uncertain with everything that is happening in my life. At the beginning of 2020 I finally felt as if I was on the right path, happy with my curricular decisions and thankful for the people I was surrounded by. However, six months in this has all changed a little. Friendships are distant, I’m not entirely sure what’s happening with my future and I’ve started to slightly feel trapped again with my own thoughts. Halfway through the year it seems as if we are not anticipating the next downfall of 2020, but I think the end of May and start of June has taught us that together we can fight. We can and must do better. Although aspects of life are uncertain, we have the opportunity to rethink and re-evaluate.

Living for the small moments:

With all of the uncertainty and unanswered questions, appreciating the smaller moments has never been so much more important. I know especially right now, you want life to go back to the way it was, I know I do (well certain aspects). BUT we can’t. An opportunity has been handed to us where we can build a new “normal”. A “normal” where we are no longer fighting injustice, instead there is unity. As we acknowledge our mistakes, we should move forward, together, to do better and make a substantial difference. Life may seem like it has paused, but it hasn’t. Instead we should be paying more attention to it, even if it is very different to our ideal storyline we have planned.

We may not understand our current obstacles right now, but eventually you will and it will all make sense. We have to keep going. Everything is coming together exactly as it should.

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Guest Articles

BLM London Protests

The Stories of those involved:

Written by Greg Kennedy

After the murder of George Floyd by four Minneapolis Police officers and countless other cases of racially motivated hate crimes across the US by citizens and police – the UK stood alongside the United States this weekend in a number of Black Lives Matter protests across the country.

People are demanding action against those responsible for the death of George Floyd and other victims of racism across the US. The UK marches put a spotlight on racism here in our own country with protesters demanding justice for those here in the UK.

Thousands of cardboard signs had plastered across them the names of victims of racism in this country including Stephen Lawrence, Belly Mujinga, Shukri Abdi and more. Many were also critical of the systematic racism in place, the police and those currently in charge of the country. 

London Protests:

The vast majority of the protests that took place in Parliament Square on Saturday were generally peaceful. They included protesters calling for justice, kneeling to show solidarity and marching through the busy roads of London.

The centre of the city came to a halt while the masses passed through – much to the delight of the delayed bus drivers and drivers who smashed their horns in support. Some came out onto the roof of their cars to join in with the crowds. While walking through the protests we noticed one woman who climbed on to the roof of her car. She jumped up and down on it so much that the roof of the car had caved in. A pick-up truck loaded with a heavy sound system also made its way through the crowd blasting Pop Smoke and Tupac tunes. 

Making a statement:

People were climbing on bus stops, traffic lights and statues all in an effort to raise their cardboard message the highest.

Towards the end of the day there was some trouble with the protesters. Police had to control parts of the crowd. However, this seemed to be a tiny minority of those involved in the marches and the protests had largely died down. For the most part of the day the police were barely seen and let the crowd go ahead with no issues. 

‘Racism is also a pandemic’:

Matt Hancock and Cressida Dick, who warned against protests the day before, were made to look clowns. Huge amount of people, more than most had predicted, turned up to support Black Lives Matter in London. Despite the ongoing Pandemic, those who turned up felt this issue was more important. They raised signs that read “Racism is also a pandemic”.

After speaking to many of the protesters, there was a general feeling of anger and frustration with the recent events. However, everyone I spoke to also seemed to feel immensely encouraged and motivated about changing attitudes after seeing the amount of people that had come out to protest. This felt like a significant turning point in Britain. Thousands turned up to support Black Lives Matter – and this was despite the ongoing pandemic. 

Those involved:

We talked to lots of those involved to find out more about why these protests are happening and to hear the stories of some of those calling out racism. 

Crissie, Activist since 1985:
BLM London Protests

“How could anybody stay at home huh?! I’ve been campaigning since 1985 for justice, for black and immigrant people, for asylum seekers, for women in particular because we’re invisible in the social justice movements.

We’ve been making sure our voices are heard because of the terrible thing that happened to not only George Floyd but the other sisters and brothers in the US who for years have been slaughtered and those here in the UK who’ve been killed by police – who then get away with it. 

This kind of crowd that’s come out, as they have all around the world, is a mixture of black and white, immigrant and indigenous. We are all here for one thing and that is to absolutely change this world. 

A combination of Covid, the pandemic of poverty and the pandemic of racism are really a catalyst moment for the movement. I’ve not seen this in the years that I’ve been organising and now we have a real chance to change something.

But the first thing we have to do is stick together and not let anybody steal our grassroots movement because there will be plenty of ambitious politicians or NGO’s who will want to seize this moment for their agenda, but their agenda is not our agenda, our agenda is to change the world, our agenda is to invest in caring and not killing. We can do that by taking back: the military budget, the police budget, the budgets that put us down and slaughter us and jail us and incriminate us. We can take those budgets back into our own hands.

This is a moment where we come together because we are catching the same fire and we have to put it out together!”

Unnamed, with a sign that reads, “I’m tired of being perceived as aggressive”:
BLM London Protests

“It’s important to be here. I think everybody should be here just so everyone can get equality.

I think as a black man, I’m tired of seeing people of my colour being killed.

Today, seeing this many people around us of all colours of all races coming together for one love one peace – we all bleed the same blood at the end of the day. That’s why I’m here today. 

The sign I made is, ‘I’m tired of being perceived as aggressive’, a lot of the time young black people, especially young black men, are perceived as being aggressive all the time.

People are walking down the street, crossing the road when they see me – just because of my skin colour. I’m sick and tired of it. I want change.

I don’t want to be perceived as someone who is bad. I’m not, I’m a good guy”.

Unnamed, protesting for change just outside Parliament Square:
BLM London Protests

“We are out here to fight the injustice in the justice system all across the board for black people. 

We’ve had enough now it has been going on for far too long. 

People have been ignoring it for far too long. This George Floyd thing has just made it apparent now. It’s in your face, it can’t be denied – we have to do something about it now!

What we need to do is get organised, get someone speaking for the people and take it to the people that can actually make real change. Because right now it is just people in the street.”

Nathan and Ranni, speaking up against the system in place:
BLM London Protests

“(Nathan) We are here to support everything that is going on. This type of thing has been going on for years. This is ridiculous now.

It’s not just the fact that this man was killed, it’s the fact that so many more instances of what’s happened have been ignored.

People stand up and they just get put back down. This is what happens when people turn a blind eye and brush it under the rug. This is what happens! People protest and stand up together – that is what matters.

(Ranni) People say that the system is broken, but the system isn’t broken, the system was created against us in the first place.

It needs to be completely reformed so that everyone has equal opportunity because at the moment we don’t have that. We get stood on, we literally get stood on and it needs to change. 

(N) The UK and the US were built on systematic racism. It goes all the way back to slavery. People say the system is broken but it has never changed. That is what we need, massive change. 

People start to get scared because of protests like this and things might get violent but this is what happens when you turn a blind eye to everything that goes on.

(R) This is the safest I’ve ever felt in London. I don’t get why our skin colour is threatening. 

(N) This is the safest I’ve ever felt outside my own house, subconsciously the black community is seen as a threat and I don’t understand why. We’re not threatening people. It’s a ridiculous thing and I’m just hoping there is going to be so much change from this.”

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Links below for ways you can help:

https://linktr.ee/sophieella

Categories
Guest Articles

Black Lives Matter Leicester

BLM protest - Leicester
BLM protest - Leicester

Written by Leah Adina

The murder of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, took place on 25thMay. A police officer knelt on his neck for nine minutes while three other officers stood by. This sparked protests in America which soon spread across the world, and to the city in which I live, Leicester. 

Black Lives Matter - Leicester
Black Lives Matter Protest Leicester

The protest held on the 6th June saw a turnout of over three and a half thousand and zero arrests. From 1pm we chanted, heard impassioned speeches and knelt for nine minutes in silence. Those nine minutes we knelt were not comfortable, we had to change knees, switch positions or stand. Kneeling for that length of time was hard and uncomfortable but nothing compared to what George Floyd endured in the last moments of his life. 

The people behind and a part of the protest:

The protest, organised by a group of young people some as young as 14, had the support of Leicester Councillor Deborah Sangster and other more experienced protestors. As for many this was their first protest.

I caught up with one of the organisers, Huda who is 21.  She described how they organised the protest by having delegated groups responsible for: speakers, press/social media, stewarding and music. In liaising with the police, the organisers ensured social distancing and the presence of trained stewards and first aiders. While the police expressed concerns surrounding music in relation to having a large gathering the organisers reiterated that, “our aim is to have the protest and raise awareness for the movement and the injustices faced by black people”.  

The speeches that followed raised hugely important points of anti-blackness in the Asian community, white privilege and an education system which is failing black boys. 

I also spoke with one of the speakers, Kondwani also known as Kswift, on why he felt he should speak out: 

“I feel like this has being going on for way too long and it’s time to put our foot down. People need to understand and learn before change can really happen. Its challenging enough to go through the system, now imagine being black, there are so many things in place to oppress us, it’s overwhelming. This is not something that I want to see my kids going through. I want them to be able to look back and say this is how it was, not this is how it is.”  

Why we protest:

Many may question why we are protesting. It is imperative to understand that this is not just an American problem, the UK and many other countries have a deep issue with systemic racism which plagues our society.

This is bigger than just George Floyd, bigger than America, it is a global issue.

Black Lives Matter - Leicester
Black Lives Matter Protest Leicester

Leicester is home to many of the Windrush generation and their descendants, the African Caribbean Centre located in Highfields, only exists because members of the Caribbean community were willing to protest until it became ours. The UK has a deeply rooted issue with racism that hasn’t ‘gone away’ as many argue. It is time to weed out these roots, confront wrongdoings and grow something new and better.

What now?

People are also questioning what we want. What we want is justice for those that have been wronged, black British history being taught as part of the curriculum, members of authority undergoing training to unlearn prejudices, a school system helping young black kids instead of excluding them, black businesses thriving and most simply: equality.  

Black Lives Matter - Leicester
Black Lives Matter Protest Leicester

The time for change is now, the time to speak up is now, the time educate is now. Be a part of the solution not the problem. To any non-black people, have those uncomfortable conversations with yourself and family as it is necessary in order to enact change. Either you’re with us or you’re against us against us, don’t allow your silence to aid our oppressors.  

I refuse to keep quiet on an issue which is killing black people. Speak up now and let this generation be the last that has to speak on these issues, because I mean it from the bottom of my heart when I say I don’t want to see my kids protesting this in the future. 

Black Lives Matter

Justice for Shukri Abdi

Petition and donation links below:

https://linktr.ee/abdiTV

Categories
BLOG

George Floyd: Rest In Power

Black Lives Matter
Black Lives Matter

“Racism isn’t getting worse, it’s getting filmed.” – Will Smith

I’ve never found it so hard to add words to a blank page. The past few days have really made me question what kind of world we live in. Trying to write on behalf of the black community, and coming to terms with the pain, fear and difficulty that they experience throughout their lives.  

George Floyd: Rest In Power

Watching the video of George Floyd made me feel sick, angry and upset. It is not as if we are blind to the situation but seeing it on film puts the situation into a totally new perspective. No human being deserves to be treated in such an inhumane way. Unfortunately this is the world we live in, but we need to open our eyes and use our privilege to make a substantial difference. We cannot forget about George Floyd and the many others who have suffered and been silenced.

We know that this is circulating all over your social media and we should already be speaking up, raising awareness and fighting for change.

Bims Ayorinde known as @wipbee on Instagram shares her artwork as well as spreading awareness of racism towards the black community.

This is her take on the situation as a young black woman:

“Being Born Black”

“The recent stories this past week concerning racism against the black community have mentally drained me. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired. I drew this piece to focus on how we are treated for something that we cannot change, something we are born with and something that I am extremely proud to be. The thing with racism, is that it makes you feel so helpless – you say to yourself ‘what can I do?’.

When people continue to discriminate and oppress you over the same thing and nothing is done about it? It’s a horrible feeling. No matter how many of us you lock up, no matter how many of us you kill, you will never silence us and you will never stop us from being proud of who we are. We want change and we want it now – this has gone on for too long.

Although some of you will never be able to understand what we go through, it’s about showing awareness that this is happening, and it has been happening for hundreds of years. You may think that by doing things such as sharing posts and signing petitions does nothing, but I assure you it goes an extremely long way.

We are lucky enough to live in a day and age that we have things such as social media and phones where we can reach and connect to thousands of people; we can all do our part to help to make sure justice is served – so why don’t we? Nobody is above this – just because it is not happening to you doesn’t mean it’s not happening to other people, understand your privilege and do your part. Reach out to people, educate yourselves on the matter, because this is real and this is happening.”

@wipbee

Speak up:

This is such a heavy topic to talk about, but it shouldn’t be one where you are afraid to speak up. There is only so much awareness we can raise but the main issue is people just aren’t educated enough. Yes, your social media is probably bombarded with posts right now and many are ignoring them, but sharing posts is one way people are going to learn. Ignorance is the biggest killer, don’t let your privilege allow you to shy yourself away from the truth.

Here are a few post that can broaden your knowledge:

How you can help:

Signing petitions and donating is one way you can help and it is vital to do so. In addition, educating yourself on the topic is just as important via reading, talking to your friends and family and becoming more aware of what is going on. We cannot let this be a social media trend and instead confront this issue, taking a step forward.

Here are a few petitions that are vital to sign:

Justice for George Floyd:

http://chng.it/4Vkgrv95hb

Raise the degree:

Officer Derek Chauvin was just taken into state custody for the murder of George Floyd. This would not have happened without massive grassroots pressure.

Listen. THIS IS NOT ENOUGH. Officers Thomas Lane, Tou Thao and J. Alexander Kueng are still free. Let’s make the most of our momentum and demand they be arrested and charged now. 

http://chng.it/Gpyfd7Kv

Demand the officers who killed George Floyd are charged with murder:

https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/justiceforfloyd-demand-the-police-officers-who-killed-george-floyd-are-fired?bucket&source=facebook-share-button&time=1590616327&utm_campaign&utm_source=facebook&share=b9618a67-4d52-49c7-80c9-236fbe8c0ea3&fbclid=IwAR3vdiWnUoF7jpL6hg39CVGyrA8oY0Vtu_k1nfQPRsq-2XcVtrMLch_7X9M

A useful website with further ways to help including petitions and ways to donate:

https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co

Split a donation between 70+ community bail funds, mutual aid funds, and racial justice organisers:

https://secure.actblue.com/donate/bail_funds_george_floyd

MORE USEFUL RESOURCES:

Anti-racism resources – Books, Film & TV, Instagram accounts to follow

https://docs.google.com/document/d/11JZ3Y0YD_ctqZyyRvR826SBQC7R_r9xtC2oTEacNP9M/mobilebasic

Petitions, donation funds and further resources including Youtube videos where 100% ad revenue will be donated to various BLM organisations

https://linktr.ee/sophieella

Google Docs with learning resources – Academic, Documentaries, Podcasts etc.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RwummvhwOujj3gAGQ5wwHVluTnoYjOX6X9uVNBKwn7I/mobilebasic

Overall, I hope people have realised how privileged they are not worrying that they may die because of the system. Educate yourself because it is a non-figurative matter of life and death. Making small changes will make a huge difference. Awareness and action.

Don’t be afraid to have the conversation.

Black Lives Matter.

Mansi and Malaika x