Be a Burden

In a world where our footsteps are often muffled and our voices dimmed, there lies an audacious act of defiance – to be a burden. Yes, you read that right. For generations, particularly within BIPOC communities, there has been an unspoken rule: to tread lightly, to ask for little, to 'be seen and not heard'. It's a narrative deeply rooted in the annals of history, where taking up space was not only discouraged but, at times, perilous. But here's a counter-narrative I propose: Be a burden.

This call to action is not about recklessness; it’s about reclaiming our space and voice in a world that often sidelines our experiences and needs. For BIPOC individuals, this means actively engaging in spaces that were not designed with us in mind, and demanding that these spaces adapt and respond to our presence.

Reclaiming Space

Reclaiming space is more than a physical act; it's a psychological one. It involves breaking down the internalized barriers that tell us we're asking for too much or being too loud. It's about occupying positions of influence, speaking up in meetings, and being unapologetically present. The act of taking up space becomes a radical form of self-care and empowerment.

The Power of Presence

Our presence is powerful. It’s an affirmation of our existence and our stories. By being fully present, we challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions that have long defined BIPOC experiences. This means showing up as our full selves, bringing our unique perspectives and cultural experiences into every room we enter. It's about making sure our narratives are heard, seen, and valued.

Demanding Responsiveness

Demanding responsiveness is an essential part of being a burden. It means not just participating in spaces but actively shaping them. It’s about holding institutions, workplaces, and social circles accountable for their inclusivity and responsiveness to our needs and perspectives. This could be as simple as requesting accommodations that acknowledge our cultural practices, or as significant as advocating for systemic changes within organizations.

The Collective Strength

There's a collective strength in this approach. When one of us chooses to be a burden, it paves the way for others. It disrupts the status quo and creates new norms where diversity of thought, experience, and identity are not just included but celebrated. This collective action has the power to transform societies, one space at a time.

To Be a Burden is to embrace the fullness of our identity in spaces that have historically asked us to diminish ourselves. It's a call to occupy space boldly, to make our presence felt, and to demand that the world around us adapts to our needs, rather than the other way around. It’s an invitation to change the narrative, one voice, one space at a time.

In essence, being a burden is not about creating discomfort for the sake of it; it's about challenging and reshaping systems that have long overlooked the richness of BIPOC experiences. It's a journey of empowerment, solidarity, and transformation. So, let's be burdens – unapologetically and collectively. Let's redefine what it means to take up space.

Too often many of us are so worried about being a burden that we become the burden we aren’t trying to be. In 2024 and beyond… be a burden!