I've seen a lot of people say the all lives matter thing is bull/stupid/whatever and I want to ask a clarifying question. What if the reason someone has that stance is because many vulnerable groups are targeted by police brutality? (Disabled people, sex workers, etc)
I have an answer to this that I think may help you understand why âall lives matterâ is a harmful belief.Â
If your home was on fire, firefighters will come and put your house out, because it is the one in danger of burning down. The firefighters will not come and aim their hoses at every single house on the block when your house is the only one on fire. Sure, the rest of the houses are important, as they are someone elseâs home, but they arenât on fire.
In this metaphor, your house on fire represents the consistent danger Black individuals are in because of systematic racism and police brutality. Black individuals are targeted by police consistently. I have seen videos of Black kids bursting into tears or hiding behind whatever they can when they see any sort of law enforcement because they are terrified and have witnessed what can happen to them just because of their skin color. Itâs heartbreaking.
Black Lives Matter is a movement that emphasizes the importance of Black Lives and is determined to end systematic racism within our law enforcement. It is not to say that anyone else does not matter. This movement is a fight for equality. But Black Lives are in the most danger right now because of systematic racism and police brutality. Just as your house, as the only one on fire, is in the most danger on your block. Letâs put that fire out.
I hope you can understand now, and if you are still confused and need clarity, my messages are open.Â
I am a white transgender queer man, and if I have explained this incorrectly, or if thereâs something I should add, please feel free to add on to this post or inbox me. I am continually learning and growing and listening.
