Don't Risk Silence. Speak Up.

It is one thing to make a statement or adopt a policy. To pledge a commitment to anti-racist practices. To set a goal of creating an inclusive, equitable space in your store.

It is another thing altogether to respond to the many unthinking or casually bigoted things said by people you know -- your customers, your friends, even your family. How do you speak up to the people who are close to you? Who you like or even love?

"And you stand there, in silence, thinking, "What can I say in response to that?" Or you laugh along, uncomfortably. Or, frustrated or angry, you walk away without saying anything, thinking later, "I should have said something." --SPLC

The Southern Povery Law Center has gathered hundreds of stories of everyday bigotry and created a guide for people on how to speak up in similar situations:

Speak Up: Responding to Everyday Bigotry

What Can I Do Among Family? is one topic. What Can I Do About Workplace Humor? About Sour Social Events? About a Teacher's Bias? About Retail Racism?

Each topic has some examples and strategies to try when you are faced with someone's casual racism or -- just as importantly -- when someone calls you on your own.

These stories all echo each other, notes the SPLC, don't risk silence.n