Way back in the late 90s, when I was 17, I went to a dingy concrete “concert venue” to watch my high school friends rock out with their punk band.

About halfway through the show, the Nazis showed up. Literally. Three big white skinheads wearing swastikas came in the door and started yelling at the band.

So I did what anyone would do. I pushed my way through the crowd, stood in front of the biggest Nazi, and started yelling back, telling them they weren’t welcome and they needed to get out.

Now, I cut a pretty intimidating figure back in ’97. I wore a lot of tie-dye, sported a pair of really thick glasses, and had the physique of a teenage girl who belonged to the drama club and spent most of her free time reading.

But the Nazis? They left.

My boyfriend later told me he was scared. I don’t remember feeling afraid. I don’t even remember making a choice. When you see someone being a racist, sexist, homophobic asshole, you stand up to them. It’s just what you do.

And, if anyone tries to use my beloved Norse mythology to prop up their shitty racism, kindly direct them to this post on my blog.

I’m Sorry

Like many white people, I’ve spent the past two weeks listening to the stories of people of color with a growing sense of misery and horror. 

I’m so sorry.

I’m sorry we still have Nazis and white supremacists. I’m sorry for all the fear and racism people of color are still experiencing in 2020. And I’m sorry for the ways I’ve been blind to my own privilege (like the privilege to stand up to Nazis without fear because I was a skinny white girl).

We Must Do Better

If you’re looking for ways to help, Time has a great list of suggestions right here. And if you want to talk about it, drop me a line. I’m listening.

Finally… MAKE SURE TO VOTE!!!!

Americans, click here to register to vote. Let’s make this country live up to its own standards, my friends!

[image error]Yes, this was THE most over-the-top gif I could find. You’re welcome.

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