You already know where I’m starting–yes, January 6th. One year after the insurrection, there are entirely too many people questioning whether the perpetrators are insurrectionists (terrorists/criminals). There is no doubt–reasonable or otherwise–we are clear. We all saw the same attack on the Nation’s Capitol Building, elected officials, staff, and visitors. It is time for the Department of Justice to prosecute and hold accountable everyone involved in planning and executing the attack on the Capitol–whether they hold elected office, run businesses, or were just brainwashed on factless and conspiratorial listserves–for their respective role in the insurrections. While this democracy was not built for us, we are certainly better off moving toward real democracy than moving in the opposite direction. It begins with intention and mine is to see the promises of this country fulfilled for the whole of America, not just a privileged few.
I would be remiss if I didn’t update you on the real OG, Papa Rye. Last month, I told you he had shoulder replacement surgery and he’s doing very well. We appreciate your prayers and love, and we are grateful for a family like you!
When it comes to celebrating and honoring the work of MLK Jr., let’s just say Papa Rye understood the assignment. He dedicated his work to ensuring that Martin Luther King Jr. Way became a real thing. So next time you turn that corner in Seattle, just know that my Daddy did that (always in coalition, but he was a major part of that story! His work is personal to me, and it’s humbling to consider that I am continuing his very important legacy.
Speaking of legacy, it is unbelievable to me how many people will quote feel-good MLK quotes out of context (side note: never mind the fact that one of the signature fights of his life was voting rights and we are in the fight for our life to protect the advances once made under his leadership). We keep talking about the filibuster like it’s a human. We need to focus that energy on the PEOPLE who are upholding the Jim Crow era filibuster in a bipartisan manner. Whoever said bipartisanship is always a good thing? Unfortunately, there have always been some Republicans and a handful of Democrats who do not support the expansion of voting rights.
Continuing the legacy of my Papa Rye earlier this month, I traveled to Arizona to stand with my sister, LaTosha Brown, in the fight to pass the Voting Rights Act. For the first time in a long time, I felt hopeful. While I was there I found myself imagining the work of ancestors like Fannie Lou Hamer and Amelia Boynton Robinson because they fought to secure our right to vote. Now imagine us losing it all. Not on our watch. I don’t play when it comes to the rights of my people, so please understand that I will make sure our voices are heard and that we fight until victory is won–and protected (hell with these steps only to backslide!!).
Sooooooooo, last year we learned the importance of resting. This year, let us all make a good faith effort to apply what we learned. Rest doesn’t always mean sleep–although I am a proud member of thenap ministry–– sometimes it means finding a space where you can relax, reflect, and rejuvenate your spirit. Supporting the cause is work, so make sure you get your rest.
Another way to rest is to curl up with a good book! Two books I am excited about this month are Candice Benbow’s Red Lip Theology and Letters to the Sons of Society by Shaka Senghor which are sold at your nearest Black bookstores like my friend Marc’s, Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee and Books!
Music has been a parallel to our experiences and connects us in so many ways. This month’s playlist is a collection of songs representing Black pride, perspective, and good vibes in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – listen on Spotify!
This 20-minute guided meditation by Lalah Delia is the perfect wind down or reset! Check it out on Insight Timer here.
Voting rights is a human rights issue and human rights should not be mired in partisanship. We can’t just say this is an urgent matter, we must show its urgency. If we never want to see another January 6th, if we want to halt the backslide into time, we must act. Our elected officials who are paid by TAXPAYERS need to act. The Senate must act. The time is NOW!
Sending you all the love, joy, freedom, justice, and power you can stand.
Righteously and cheerfully,
