Stand Up

Instagram was filled with black boxes this week.

It’s a beautiful statement in solidarity.

For the black community and people at large, specially in America but around the world as much.

Who have and continue to receive systematic racism everyday.

But it’s not enough to be silent for a day.

It’s not enough for you to just post a black box.

#blackboxtuesday is the call to action.

And as much as I appreciate us and all the bollywood stars supporting George Floyd.

It’s now time to get to work for India.

History shows us that the fight for justice and equality has always been uncomfortable.

Change, in ourselves and in our world, requires tearing down our own thoughts, beliefs, system.

It requires re-birth.

And that is inherently uncomfortable.

And that is what this community is about.

We intentionally choose discomfort.

So that we can grow.

Together.

Yet today, this means recognising that there are people around the world.

That are experiencing discomfort that their ancestors didn’t choose.

Based on their caste or where they come from.

It is a privilege that I, as a Hindu, will never fully understand.

But I know what empathy feels like.

I know what justice looks like.

And so do you.

Let’s stop pretending we don’t see it.

That yes, all lives matter but not until those who the system deemed are not important enough.

And if we don’t stand to injustice, we are just as culpable.

Our silence protects the perpetrators.

So today, I urge you to take a step towards this injustice.

Seek discomfort in the ways you need to.

In your heart, not your head.

Discomfort today doesn’t look like jumping out of a plane.

But it might mean speaking out in your family, company or community.

It might look like asking a thoughtful question you’re afraid to ask.

It might look like speaking up for others.

Whichever you choose, the key is that you stand up.

That you say enough is enough.

That you choose love over fear.

Also, a very happy pride week to every viewer. 

There is no specific day in India to celebrate but let’s make it the first week of June, just like New York.

#LoveisLove

Love,

Dhruv.