Concrete Ways To Help: Demonstrating Solidarity With Black People

3 min read Post on Jun 21, 2025

Concrete Ways to Help: Demonstrating Solidarity with Black People Beyond Performative Allyship

The murder of George Floyd in 2020 sparked a global reckoning on racial injustice and ignited a renewed commitment to racial equality. While many expressed solidarity with the Black community, the conversation quickly shifted from performative allyship to tangible action. But how do we move beyond well-intentioned statements and translate support into meaningful change? This article outlines concrete ways to demonstrate genuine solidarity with Black people and actively contribute to dismantling systemic racism.

Beyond the Hashtag: Taking Meaningful Action

It’s crucial to understand that solidarity isn't a one-time event; it's an ongoing commitment. Simply posting a black square on social media isn't enough. True allyship requires consistent effort and a willingness to engage in uncomfortable conversations and challenge ingrained biases. Here are some actionable steps you can take:

Educate Yourself and Others

Read widely: Diversify your reading list to include books, articles, and essays by Black authors and scholars. Learn about the history of systemic racism, the ongoing struggles faced by Black communities, and the nuances of the Black experience. Resources like offer valuable starting points.
Listen and learn: Engage in respectful conversations with Black individuals and actively listen to their experiences. Be open to hearing perspectives that may challenge your own worldview. Avoid interrupting or dismissing their narratives.
Challenge racist jokes and microaggressions: Call out racism whenever and wherever you see it, even if it's uncomfortable. Silence is complicity. This includes challenging racist jokes, stereotypes, and microaggressions within your own social circles.

Support Black Businesses and Creators

Shop Black: Intentionally support Black-owned businesses by purchasing their products and services. This directly contributes to the economic empowerment of the Black community. Websites like can help you find local businesses.
Streamline Black Creators: Support Black artists, musicians, writers, and filmmakers by consuming their work and sharing it with your network. Platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram offer opportunities to discover and amplify Black voices.

Advocate for Policy Change

Contact your elected officials: Urge your representatives to support policies that address systemic racism and promote racial justice. This could include legislation related to criminal justice reform, affordable housing, education equity, and healthcare access.
Get involved in political campaigns: Support candidates who are committed to racial justice and actively work to elect them.
Support organizations fighting for racial justice: Donate to and volunteer with organizations that are working to dismantle systemic racism. Research organizations that align with your values and focus on specific issues you care about.

Engage in Anti-racist Action

Participate in peaceful protests and demonstrations: Show your solidarity by participating in peaceful protests and demonstrations that advocate for racial justice. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local regulations.
Become an active ally: Allyship is not a passive role. Actively seek out opportunities to support and uplift the Black community.

Sustaining the Commitment: Long-Term Allyship

True allyship requires a long-term commitment to learning, growing, and acting. It’s a continuous journey, not a destination. By consistently engaging in these actions, we can collectively work towards a more just and equitable society for all. Remember, the fight for racial justice is a marathon, not a sprint. Your sustained commitment makes a tangible difference.