Kimson's Open Letter: When Things Get Hard As They Sometimes Will....

It has taken me a while to think about what I should say after what has been in the news this week in the U.S. Honestly, my heart is heavy and although I want to participate in conversations that lead to resolutions. There is a part of me that wants to take time to process how I can be the most present in this moment. Here in our community we openly talk about race, discrimination, prejudice and stereotypes. I acknowledge each one as "uncomfortable topic" and not welcomed as "necessary" conversations in some spaces. I often hear that people believe we don't need to talk about these topics in 2020. However, when events or moments like this happen locally, nationally and internationally this reminds me why we need a space for People of Color and those who do not identify as people of color but want to serve as allies. As we continue conversations about solutions, coping mechanisms and sometimes just to vent to one another.

Since, I started working with you all to build this community, I receive messages that inquire about why we exist, unsure about our intentions and questions about why we choose the topics we discuss. Our work here in this community to create a brave space for people to talk about the realities of our societies, at times can seem to heavy to bear. Here we create a space for people like you and me to talk when we may feel others aren't listening. Our space is not about quieting voices but uplifting our voice to address challenges that people of color face everywhere. Supporting people of color is a humbling place to exist, teach and learn from everyday. I am grateful for all of you, without knowing you personally you inspire me to do the work even when it is difficult and when I am hoping that each word you see in our community means something.

I want to say thank you to you all for walking alongside me in this journey to support, grow and improve our community. We have come a long way and the ability to interact with you in forums, chats and PM's are so special for me and my team. You all make each hand clap and each criticism I receive worth it. In these times, things can feel heavy. Talking about the pandemic, mental health, living as a person of color, supporting communities of color, serving as an ally, or just participating to learn the language needed to talk about these challenges is a process. I can not guarantee or even say everything will be okay, but what I am saying is that we will learn from these challenges and build a stronger tomorrow. I hope as you read my letter, you know that I am thinking about all of you as I type. I want you all to live in a place of peace in this present world of uncertainity. You are seen here, your voice matter here and I am so grateful you decided to join us here.

Until my next open letter,

Kimson