Kalamazoo & SW Michigan BIPOC Communities Safety Suggestions For the 2021 Presidential Inauguration
Kalamazoo, MI- A message from organizers that are asking for members of BIPOC communities to taken in consideration as you plan your daily activities leading up the 2021 Presidential Inauguration.
BIPOC/ALLY Community Safety Suggestions for Jan. 17-20, 2021
Greeting you with Power.
These times are jarring and for many of us, unprecedented in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities. The multiple emotions we will feel leading up to the inauguration and beyond are valid and normal. We make space to hold these feelings in radical love and commitment to our wellness
During the dates of January 17-20th, we are aware that many white supremacist groups plan to protest the state capitols of all of our US states. This is known through online information shared and the advice from secure sources.
Our advice to our BIPOC/Ally communities is to stay close to community and away from any actions taking place anywhere near where the white supremacist groups will be. “Stay Safe, Stay Home” takes on an even deeper meaning for these days.
During these days, we strongly advise BIPOC to:
- Take this weekend off of work.
- We implore employers to refrain from penalizing employees of color for taking off to ensure their safety is not compromised going to and from their homes.
- Take this week to stock your home with enough food, water, and needed medications for up to 2 weeks in the event that going out safely will be harder to do because of actions we cannot predict leading up to the inauguration.
- Allies can be charged to help transport these items to vulnerable folks
- Check on your loved ones, bring the Elders up to speed, and offer comfort and assurance. Now is the time to practice radical care for one another.
- Keep all devices charged and limit use when unplugged to conserve battery
- Secure a battery-powered radio in case of cell phone disruption to use to hear emergency radio broadcasts
- Write down important phone numbers in the event of phone service disruption
- Identify the closest landline to you and a safe route to use for emergencies. Do not travel alone.
- In case of fire, have an extinguisher and smoke detector batteries on hand.
- Stock up on blankets and warming packs in the event of power failure. Fiberglass blankets, flashlights or lanterns, are suggested
- Identify the safest place in your home, away from windows and visible lights, even a closet if needed to conceal yourself.
If leaving home is not avoidable, avoid traveling anywhere far from your home and going out by yourself.
Respect and Power,
