Get Off My Neck

Racism is ubiquitous. It’s not just in the criminal justice system or disguised as politics somewhere miles away. It’s walking a dog down your street, it’s in our grocery stores, and – unfortunately – it’s in some fiber arts groups.

Let me be clear: At the Notorious Needle, we believe Black Lives Matter.

Inspired by Rev. Al Sharpton’s words as he eulogized George Floyd, I created a new free pattern in the Notorious Nook designed to help fight systemic racism.

I’m white, and I don’t want to speak for others. Instead, I want to encourage all white folks to stop, have a listen, and really hear the stories of the struggles that Black folks and other communities of color endure every day. Yes – every single day of their lives.

And if you feel a little uncomfortable because you didn’t know how much you just didn’t know about what has been going on since before you were born, that’s a good start.  Keep listening.

You can start by listening to the to Rev. Sharpton earlier this week. You can watch the eulogy here:

https://www.npr.org/2020/06/04/869721514/hundreds-expected-at-memorial-for-george-floyd-after-days-of-nationwide-protests

If you choose to stitch this pattern, please make a $5 or $10 donation to one of the many organizations listed on the last page of this pattern if you can. The links are fully clickable.

And please don’t let your help stop there.

Join groups near you that are fighting systemic racism. Many of the organizations listed on the last page of this pattern have local chapters.

VOTE. Vote in every election, every chance you have, for every position that appears on your ballot, top to bottom.