Racial Justice Resources

AN UNDERSTANDING FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

While we understand the challenging financial situation photographers across the world are experiencing as a result of the coronavirus, this pales in comparison to the unrelenting inequities that people of color have faced for centuries. As photographers, it is important to consider the ethics of capitalizing on telling stories that are not our own. Let us not forget both the immediate and historic context driving this moment and examine how best to amplify and center black voices.

There are many ways non-Black photographers can show up that center the Black experience. This is a time for us to listen and do the work to dismantle our own biases. When we are uncomfortable, we must ask ourselves why. That discomfort isn’t a bad thing – it means we are growing.

  1. Listen to and support Black leadership
  2. Attend protests with signs
  3. Hand out water and snacks to those marching at protests
  4. While protesting, safely place ourselves between Black protestors and the police, which has proven to de-escalate police brutality tactics
  5. Talk to non-Black friends and relatives about race and help educate one another and share resources for continuing education around racial justice
  6. Make recurring donations to antiracist advocacy organizations like Black Lives Matter, Black Visions Collective, NAACP Legal Defense Fund

COMMUNITY COLLECTIONS OF BLACK PHOTOGRAPHERS

In response to our members and the larger photographic community requesting this information, here are links to organizations that have compiled lists of photographers of color.

RESOURCES FOR ANTIRACISM WORK

The following are starting points to read as we continue to educate ourselves in antiracism:

PROTESTING SAFELY + ETHICALLY

If you plan to attend a protest, please read and consider the links below and also observe the following safety guidelines specific to protesting during COVID-19:

  • Read the Authority Collective’s guidelines on photographing these protests ethically.
  • The NPPA compiled links that may be helpful for pratical resources on the ground during COVID-19.
  • NPPA Code of Ethics.
  • NAACP provided a list for cities nationwide of legal aid for protestors.
  • Wear a mask. My mask protects you, your mask protects me.
  • Maintain physical distancing to the best of your ability. 
  • Get tested. Get a COVID-19 test approximately 5 days after – earlier risks false negatives. COVID testing is FREE in Los Angeles County. You must schedule an appointment to be tested. 
  • Bring hand sanitizer or wash your hands after touching surfaces, if necessary.
  • These are peaceful protests. Follow instructions from event organizers regarding places to protest, when to move, and how to communicate. BLM organizers  requested that allies do not riot, loot, violently instigate law enforcement, or otherwise act in ways that might escalate protests, thus endangering Black lives. If you are not Black, please remember why you are protesting: you are there to support the Black community and protect them from harm from law enforcement.  

Read more about how to protest during a pandemic and what to bring to a peaceful protest. Feel free to share additional resources and we’ll add them.