Taking a step back

I've decided to take a step back from my blog for the time being, due to the state of our country and how things have developed since the murder of George Floyd. I contemplated not posting anything about it — why make a blog post to say I'm going to not have blog posts for a while? — but I think the reason why I'm stopping is something that others may need to hear.

I've seen a phrase floating around a lot lately: if you're tired of hearing of racism, imagine how it must feel to live with it every day. It's a huge privilege to not worry about it, and its one I've spent a lot of time fighting.

The things that have taken place in our country over the last two weeks have been shocking and upsetting for many, but for so many people, not surprising. Over the last two weeks, I've been working to find where my space is in all of this. As a journalist, I don't share my politics, but this is different — I've felt the need to be present in this case because it isn't about politics. It's about human rights.

I'm still learning how to help, and I'm doing what I can, but what it comes down to is this: the things that I usually write my blog about seem so unimportant now. Right now, I don't feel the need (or the right) to write posts about nostalgia or a challenge I've overcome. So instead, I encourage people to branch out in what they read. Read stories by writers who don't look like you — there are several lists just a click away of important books written by black authors that have been popping up a lot as of late. I plan to do the same.

I'll still be sharing, amplifying voices, and doing my part, but "emmalikeswriting" will be empty for the time being.

I'll leave you with this – if anything about this makes you uncomfortable, ask yourself — why?

Note: This blog does not represent the views of my employer.