As a program officer for Heartland Alliance International, Eryn ensures that our global programs support survivors of violence and build the capacity of human rights workers around the world. Eryn finds hope in the unity brought about through recent demonstrations.
Why have you been compelled to act during this tumultuous time?
Many asked me this question while I was attending the protest, “You’re not black or white, why do you care?” I have to be honest I haven’t not been able to give an eloquent answer. I don’t think it requires a high moral standard, adherence to an ideology, or some pivotal life event for a person to be infuriated by what’s happening.
The reason why I feel compelled to act—since I didn’t grow up in the U.S.—may be similar to the reason why people who are halfway across the world are shouting George Floyd’s name, regardless of their identities or circumstances. Police brutality in the U.S. is so deeply upsetting because it violates human dignity on such a fundamental level.
What do you hope comes from this activism?
First off, I don’t consider my participation in protests to be activism. That would be a slight to the activists who are laying down their lives for us. I show up to protests mostly for selfish reasons, primarily to seek that sense of hope and solidarity.
If there’s one thing I hope would happen, it’s for young adults and children to see me—someone who seem so irrelevant to this issue—shout that their lives matter and feel validated in their sense of dignity and importance.
Do you have any tips or something you would like to say to others thinking about acting?
If you’re asking about what frame of mind non-Black protesters should have when attending protests, there are so many informative social media posts by Black activists. It would take more than a couple of posts to un-learn white supremacy or resist the urge to make it all about us, but these contents are so important if our intention is to truly listen and learn.
If you’re asking what people should keep in mind while attending the protests, one thing would be to keep vigilant of what is happening to protesters around you. Always look around and check in with anyone who seems to be in physical and/or mental distress. On a similar note, do not invite violent confrontation just because you are feeling upset—what you do during these protests will have consequences to those standing nearby.
Another thing is to use our privilege and resources to protect others in more vulnerable positions than us. There are many who cannot afford to get arrested (such as the undocumented) or physically assaulted (such as children, senior citizens, persons with a disability). It doesn’t have to be some heroic act. Everyone has something they can bring to the table; knowing this in advance can be extremely helpful—and potentially life-saving—to peaceful demonstration.
