A guide to how you can support a marginalized community

Published

4 years ago

May 31, 2020

A guide to how you can support a marginalized community

Every time this incident happens, many of us wonder what we can do to support our African-American friends beyond the sad online posting – and in a real and meaningful way.

Being an ally – someone who is not a member of a particular marginal group but seeks to help end the oppression of those in the marginal group – is a constant process. Alliance can mean different things to different people, and it can be difficult to know where to start.

This is not an exhaustive list, but here are some ways that you can support a marginalized community.

To reach

Offer support and comfort.

Check your friends who don’t look like you when a tragedy or a high profile incident occurs. Point out that you are there for them in whatever way they need.

Educate yourself and others

Do your research.

Do what you can to educate yourself before asking others to explain things to you. There are many resources available to you online. Google is your friend.

Ask questions when needed.

We all learn, and it’s okay to ask.

But be careful who you ask for, said writer Courtney Ariel. Don’t rely too much on people of color or other marginalized groups to be your “expert”.

It’s best if the person you are asking is someone who already has a strong relationship with you. And be prepared to accept that some people might not want to discuss these things with you.

Brush up on history.

Ask, “How can something like this happen?” when other police meetings turn to death can be considered deaf for people who have long been dealing with a rooted system of oppression Ariel writes. Make sure you do the speed before weighing.

Affect people in your own group.

Talk to people in your own life, especially those who have the same identity as you, writes Jamie Utt Everyday Feminism. Teach your friends and family about how the bullying system affects marginalized groups. Make them responsible for their words and actions, and the role they might play in the system.

Teach your children.

It’s never too early. Talk to your children explicitly about racism and other forms of discrimination. Don’t teach them to be “color blind,” says writer Jennifer Harvey. Let them know that it is important to pay attention to differences, and teach them to stand up for others.

Acknowledge your mistakes.

Allyship is a process. Along the way, you must be doing or saying the wrong thing now and then. Don’t be defensive. Responsible for mistakes. And better move forward.

Listen

Recognize your privileges.

An important part of being an ally is recognizing the benefits and strengths you have in society because of your identity since birth, said organizational change consultant Frances Kendall. Be aware of yourself and want to fight others who share your privileges.

Attention.

Racism and other forms of oppression are everywhere, even if you don’t experience them yourself. Train yourself to pay attention to them on a personal and institutional level, said writer and activist Paul Kivel. Pay attention to what is said (and what is not) and who is (and who is not). Recognize how prejudice, discrimination and oppression are denied, minimized or justified.

This is why everyday racial profiles are so dangerous

Know when to talk less.

This is not about you. You don’t need to comment on every situation with your own perspective, or go out of your way to prove how aware or educated you are, Ariel said. Raise others without speaking to them. Let others have a microphone for change.

Understanding other people’s experiences.

Instead of offering your own thoughts, listen to marginalized people when they tell you about their experiences, frustrations, and emotions. Sit with that for a minute.

Stand up

Build a network.

You cannot do this job alone. Find other allies who can work with you, and hold each other accountable. Partner with an organization that does the same work as you. Support people of color who are leaders.

Use your privileges to help others.

That can be scary, but take risks, Kivel writes. Call injustice or discrimination when you see it. Intervene when you see examples of racism or other situations that appear unsafe.

Use 5 D of observer intervention. That includes reducing the situation, calling others to ask for help, examining the people involved, talking and documenting what happened.

The protest pictures themselves tell the story of America's racial hierarchy

Know your rights when recording.

You are allowed by the Constitution to film the police on duty, as long as you do not interfere with their activities. Keep a safe distance. Capture signs or landmarks that help identify locations.

Convey your concerns to those in power.

Find out who your local legislators and politicians are (go here to find a complete list of your elected officials), and know how contact them. Is a good Twitter thread from former Congress staff about how to actually make politicians listen.

Stand in solidarity.

Line up with people from groups who are marginalized in protests and demonstrations.

Donate your time and money.

This can take many forms, said Ariel. Offer to help people who can take advantage of your expertise. Help the family pay their bills. Identify the organization whose work is aligned with your goals, and give what you can.

Select.

Make sure you are registered. And do it in every election, not just the big one.

AJ Willingham from CNN contributed to this report.

Goodwin Townsend

General internet buff. Hardcore music maven. Typical foodaholic. Friendly student.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

4 days ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Portuguese historical films will premiere on 29 December.

Published

2 years ago

December 20, 2022

Herb Adkins

Portuguese historical films will premiere on 29 December.

Method Media Bermuda will present the documentary FABRIC: Portuguese History in Bermuda on Thursday, December 29 at the Underwater Research Institute of Bermuda.

A spokesperson said: “Method Media is proud to bring Bermuda Fabric: Portugal History to Bermuda for its 5th and 6th showing at the Bermuda Underwater Observatory. In November and December 2019, Cloth: A Portuguese Story in Bermuda had four sold-out screenings. Now that Bermuda has reopened after the pandemic, it’s time to bring the film back for at least two screenings.

“There are tickets Ptix.bm For $ 20 – sessions at 15:30 and 18:00. Both screenings will be followed by a short Q&A session.

Director and producer Milton Raboso says, “FABRIC is a definitive account of the Portuguese community in Bermuda and its 151 years of history, but it also places Bermuda, Acors and Portugal in the world history and the events that have fueled those 151 years.

“It took more than 10 years to implement FABRIC. The film was supported by the Minister of Culture, the Government of the Azores and private donors.

“Bermuda Media Method [MMB] Created in 2011 by producer Milton Raposo. MMB has created content for a wide range of clients: Bermuda’s new hospital renovation, reinsurance, travel campaigns, international sports and more. MMB pays special attention to artistic, cultural and historical content.

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#History of Bermuda #A photo #Portuguese

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Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

CRISTANO RONALDO CAN MAKE UP A GIANT IN CARIOCA AND PORTUGUESE TECHNICIAN SAYS ‘There will be room’

Published

2 years ago

December 20, 2022

Herb Adkins

CRISTANO RONALDO CAN MAKE UP A GIANT IN CARIOCA AND PORTUGUESE TECHNICIAN SAYS 'There will be room'

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Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.