This is the fourth time I’ve sat down to write this.  I don’t know what to say.  It’s not often that I am at a loss for words.  If you’ve read this blog before or follow me on Twitter (or you’ve met me in person), you’d know it’s rare.  This blog is meant to be an escape from real life, a place where you can read about entertainment and forget your troubles for a few moments.  And I thought for a while that is what I should continue to do right now.  I started a series on the best ways to distract yourself while being locked down due to the global pandemic.  But right now, I’m not much in the mood to distract.  I couldn't just go back to talking about TV shows, movies, and video games while I watch what’s happening across the country and the world.  I’ve spoken about George Floyd on my social media accounts, but I no longer felt like I could keep this blog quiet about what’s going on.  I have a platform, such that it is, and I feel compelled to use it.  

I don’t have to describe to you what happened.  You’ve seen the video by now.  At some point, set a countdown timer on your phone for 8 minutes and 46 seconds.  See if you can sit still and be silent for that time and realize what a great length of time it is.  Don’t shift in your seat, don’t take a drink of water, don’t scratch an itch.  Those 8 minutes and 46 seconds were an act of murder.  Not third degree, not second degree, but first degree, intentional, and premeditated murder.  

I am not sure if there are people out there who still believe that we live in a post-racism society.  I can tell you about the hundreds of times I, as a South Asian man, have experienced racism, from the sideways looks to moments when I’ve feared for my life.  But I don’t want to make this about me.  I’m deeply troubled by the systemic racism African-Americans face.  I’m deeply troubled by the militarization of police.  Cash bail is a problem.  There are better voices out there to tell you about this than mine.  So I’m going to give some short advice and then shut up for now.  

Watch.

Listen.

Read. 

Donate.  Your time, your voice, and your money if you can.  This link has been all over Twitter, but I’ll put it here as well.  In addition to the links contained within, bail funds are also a good idea. 

https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/#donate

If you are protesting, please stay safe.