Speak Up - Tumblr Posts - Page 2

Would also be really annoying if they wore heat resistant gloves to throw back the hot tear gas canisters and if this got shared to all those protesting…
Black lives matter 💯
TRAYVON MARTIN was walking home with an iced tea and Skittles. He was shot by George Zinneman, who was found not guilty.
KEITH SCOTT was sitting in a car, reading. He was shot by a police officer, who was not charged.
ATATIANA JEFFERSON was looking out her window, and was shot by a police officer, who is still under indictment for murder.
JONATHAN FERRELL was asking for help after an auto accident. He was shot twelve times by police, case ended in mistrial.
JORDAN EDWARDS was riding in a car and was shot in the back of the head by a police officer, who was found guilty of murder.
STEPHON CLARK was holding a cell phone, and was shot 8 times, 6 in the back. The officers were not charged.
AMADOU DIALLO while taking out his wallet, 41 shots were fired by four different officers. They were all acquitted.
RENISHA MCBRIDE after an auto accident, she knocked on someone’s door for help. The homeowner was found guilty of second-degree murder.
TAMIR RICE was playing with a toy gun, and was shot by police officer arriving on scene. Officer was not charged.
SEAN BELL was hosting a bachelor party. 50 rounds were fired by police officers who were found not guilty of charges.
WALTER SCOTT was pulled over for brake lights, and was shot in the back by a police officer who pleaded guilty to civil rights violations.
PHILANDO CASTILE was pulled over and told officer he had a legally registered weapon in car. Officer acquitted of all charges.
AIYANA JONES was sleeping and was accidentally shot by an officer in a raid on wrong apartment. Officer cleared of all charges.
TERRENCE CRUTCHER needed help when his vehicle broke down. Was shot by a police officer who was found not guilty of manslaughter.
ALTON STERLING was selling CDs, and was shot at close range while being arrested. No charges filed.
FREDDIE GRAY was beaten to death by officers while being transported in police van. All officers involved were acquitted.
JOHN CRAWFORD was shopping at WalMart, holding a BB gun that was on sale—police officer was not charged for his murder.
MICHAEL BROWN was shot twelve times by an officer, including in the back. No charges filed.
JORDAN DAVIS was killed because he was playing loud music. Shooter found guilty of first-degree murder.
SANDRA BLAND was pulled over for traffic ticket; was tasered and then arrested. Suspicious “suicide” while in jail. No charges.
BOTHAM JEAN was fatally shot in his home, which female officer ¿mistook for her own? (Which I’ll never understand.) Officer found guilty of murder.
OSCAR GRANT was handcuffed and placed face-down, officer then shot him in the back. Officer found guilty of involuntary manslaughter.
COREY JONES was waiting by his car which was broken down, and was shot three times by police officer, who was found guilty of murder.
AHMAUD AUBREY was jogging. He was shot by two racist men who claimed they suspected him of burglaries. Both men were charged with murder and aggravated assault.
GEORGE FLOYD was suspected of alleged fraud. He handcuffed and pinned to the ground by an officer’s knee. He begged for mercy and he was ignored.
ERIC GARNER: Stopped for selling cigarettes on a nyc street and choked by a cop in broad daylight. Complications of the stress put on his throat by the hold caused his death; Openly said “I can’t breathe” several times and pretty much died while three other cops watched their compatriot kill a man. Eric was well known for just trying to sell goods as a side hustle and never actually hurt anybody.
DJ HENRY was fatally shot in his car by police officer Aaron Hess in the early morning hours of Oct. 17, 2010. DJ's passengers say they were doing nothing wrong when Hess ran out in front of them in the road. Hess says he only fired because he was in fear for his life. Hess later admitted to lying on multiple occasions after DJ’s death about the shooting.
These were all murders. They were not accidental. All of these innocent people: men, women AND children. Were murdered because they were black. Not because they were violent. Not because they were threatening, but because they were black. Something has to change. We have to MAKE a change. Black lives matter. Black men. Black women. Black children. Non-Binary blacks. Trans blacks. Every single one of their lives matter. Your friends. Your neighbors. Your teachers. Your brothers. Your sisters. We are the change.
——————
this list isn’t even close to a being a quarter of the wrongful African American deaths in America and if there is anyone you’d like me to add please message me. I will gladly add them because people deserve to know their names.
ՏᑭᗴᗩK ᑌᑭ! ՏᑭᗴᗩK ᑌᑭ!
Hᴏᴘᴇ Fᴏʀ Pᴀʟᴇsᴛɪɴᴇ!!!! 🍉🍉🍉🍉🍉🍉🍉🍉🍉🍉.
!ALL EYES ON PALASTINE!
I gotta vent about something, as a middle eastern girl:
I have kept quiet about the war in Palestine until now because it's such an important issue that if I ever talk about it in depth, I will make sure I do it in the best way possible and while I don't feel ready to do such a thing, I won't post anything, but I need to say this: if you are able to, please, PLEASE, help the innocent civilians dying there and also the innocent civilians in Israel too, in any way you can. Be it donating, talking about the war in a correct and mindful and educated and fair way, be it praying if you believe in a higher power, just about anything is better than nothing. The issue is the stupid, merciless, greedy and blood thirsty Israeli government, not the people who were born there and are just trying to survive. Now, I don't even have words to express how hard and borderline impossible at times (sometimes, actually impossible) it is for my people to survive in Palestine, in Gaza, where everything has not been okay for ages and now the few good things they had are being robbed from them, like a simple roof over their heads, the luxury to sleep well during the night, having their families alive, having food, basic hygiene products and much more. All I know is ever since this war exploded, I have cried my eyes out and prayed to the God I believe in, I have read the Bible to try and find comfort and understand it all, I have been avoiding listening to music in arabic (something I used to do almost every day before) because hearing my people's language and remembering what they're going through just rips my heart right out of my chest and gives me a big lump in my throat, I have doubted if the human race has any salvation whatsoever, I have cried thinking about the children and the animals and the desperate mothers and fathers amongst bombs and shards and blood and screams and loss and misery... I am listening to Fenee by the Palestinian singer Elyanna right now (one of my fav singers ever) and I'm sweating and my hands are cold because of how much it all messes with my emotions... I just want peace for everyone. I just specially want peace in Palestine. 🇵🇸 RIP to all the innocent victims. Your struggle was seen by the Universe and cosmic vengeance and justice will come to those who deserve it.
Rape is no joke; rape can happen to anyone.





26 Male Survivors Of Sexual Assault Quoting The People Who Attacked Them
http://www.buzzfeed.com/spenceralthouse/male-survivors-of-sexual-assault-quoting-the-people-who-a
Honestly so many people have the misconception that males can’t be domestic violence victims or rape victims. Like they think that only girls can get hurt in this way and that’s also another reason why many male victims are scared to speak up because they’re afraid no one will listen to their voice. Also, another thing that people have a misconception about is that males don’t get anorexia or any type of body/mental illness
Just an experiment. Reblog if you actually give a fuck about male victims of domestic violence and rape.
Of fucking course
What sick bastard doesn’t
i’m gonna go on a rant for a sec.
it is truly terrifying how uneducated a lot of teenagers are now. hurtful words that spew out of their mouth endlessly and they think it’s funny. words such as “retarted” or “n*****”. and it’s “only meant as a joke”. i’m here to say that these words, are not a joke. people used to be seen as these things. i’m calling out to anyone who uses these words regularly, and thinks it makes them funny or cool. it doesn’t. it makes you look like an ass. it makes you look like a fool and it makes you childish. i’m not here to call people names, before people start calling me out. i’m just sick of listening to a group of girls call another girl a slut when she a. didn’t even interact with them in any way and b. is a virgin. the definition of slut is a woman with many sexual partners. so how exactly is she a slut, if she is a virgin? this is ridiculous.
sorry if i offended anyone in any way. i just really needed to get that out of my head. if i offended you, there is no need to say anything to me about it. just block me and move on. if you feel you must say something, please dm me and we can discuss it. this post was not meant to offend anyone. it was simply to get my point across that students in middle school- high school shouldn’t be using the words “n*****” and “retarded” and “slut”..etc. especially not directed at each other, when they don’t even know the true meaning of the words.
Don’t you hate when people always tel you to “speak up” or “grow a backbone” but then as soon as you gain some confidence to say what you really wanna say they berate you for being moody. Like okay sorry did you want really to be confidant or did you just want to control? Like EXCUSS ME!
Dear Supporter,
I hope this message finds you and your family in good health. My name is Rakan Zaqout from Gaza.🍉 I am reaching out to seek your urgent help in spreading the word about our fundraising campaign. I lost both my home and my school, my parents lost their jobs too, due to the ongoing genocide in Gaza and we are facing catastrophic living conditions.💔
I kindly ask you to visit our campaign. Your support, whether through donating or sharing, will help us reach more people who can make a difference. Thank you for your continued support for the Palestinian cause. Your dedication brings us closer to freedom.🕊
Please note, our campaign has been verified by 90-ghost and aces-and-angels.☑
Don’t stop speaking about Palestine! 🇵🇸
Opening the Gateway to Expression: A Meditation for the Throat Chakra
Shaina Tranquilino
August 5, 2023
In the world of energy healing and chakra balancing, each chakra plays a vital role in our overall well-being. Today, we'll explore the fifth chakra, known as the throat chakra or Vishuddha in Sanskrit. Positioned at the centre of our neck, this energetic vortex governs communication, expression, and authenticity. If you find yourself struggling with self-expression, speaking your truth, or even feeling creatively stifled, it may be time to focus on nurturing and harmonizing your throat chakra through meditation.
The Importance of a Balanced Throat Chakra:
A balanced throat chakra allows us to confidently express ourselves with clarity and integrity. It facilitates effective communication both in verbal and non-verbal forms, fostering healthy relationships and enhancing our ability to listen actively. When imbalanced, however, it can manifest as difficulty expressing emotions, fear of public speaking, chronic sore throats or voice issues, creative blocks, or an excessive need for validation from others.
Meditation Technique for Balancing the Throat Chakra:
1. Find a quiet and comfortable space:
Choose a serene environment where you won't be disturbed during your practice. Create an ambiance that resonates with you - light some candles or incense if desired.
2. Assume a comfortable seated position:
Sit cross-legged on a cushion or chair with your spine straight but relaxed. Rest your hands on your knees or lap facing upward to receive energy.
3. Begin deep breathing:
Close your eyes gently and take several deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. With each inhale imagine white light filling your body while exhaling any tension or negativity.
4. Visualize vibrant blue light:
Focus your attention on your throat area where the throat chakra resides. Envision a spinning wheel of vibrant sky-blue light located precisely at the centre of your throat. Picture this light growing brighter, clearing any blockages or stagnant energy.

5. Repeat affirmations:
Silently or out loud, repeat affirmations that resonate with you and align with the throat chakra's qualities. Examples include: "I express myself confidently and authentically," "My voice is powerful and worthy of being heard," or "I communicate my thoughts clearly and listen deeply."
6. Engage in toning exercises:
Using your voice, start making sustained sounds such as "Aah" or "Ooh." Feel the vibrations resonating within your throat and imagine them harmonizing and healing your throat chakra. Experiment with different pitches if it feels right for you.
7. Reflect on personal expression:
Take a moment to reflect on how you've been expressing yourself lately. Are there areas where you hold back? Are there situations where you feel uncomfortable speaking up? Allow these insights to flow without judgment; awareness is the first step towards growth.
8. Journaling:
After completing the meditation, grab a journal and write down any thoughts, emotions, or realizations that arose during the practice. This process helps solidify your intentions and encourages self-reflection.
By regularly practicing this meditation for the throat chakra, we can cultivate an authentic voice that allows us to communicate our needs, desires, and truths in a healthy manner while fostering deep connections with others. Remember that balancing each chakra requires time and patience, so make this meditation part of your regular routine to experience profound shifts in self-expression and connection. Embrace the power of your voice, unleash its potential, and let it reverberate positively through every aspect of your life!
Unleashing the Power of Your Voice: Standing up for Yourself and Others
Shaina Tranquilino
October 21, 2023

Throughout history, individuals who have used their voices to stand up for themselves and others have played a pivotal role in shaping societies. From civil rights activists like Martin Luther King Jr. to Malala Yousafzai advocating for girls' education, these courageous individuals remind us of the immense power that lies within our own voices. Speaking up is not always easy; it requires courage, resilience, and determination. However, in this blog post, we will explore why using your own voice to stand up for yourself and others is crucial and how it can create positive change.
Advocating for Yourself:
Speaking up for oneself is an empowering act that allows individuals to assert their needs, boundaries, and beliefs confidently. When you use your voice to advocate for yourself, you establish healthy relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. Moreover, expressing your thoughts and opinions openly fosters personal growth by challenging self-doubt and building confidence.
Empowering Others:
Using your voice to speak up on behalf of others who may be marginalized or oppressed is an act of solidarity that holds immeasurable value. By amplifying unheard voices, we help create a more inclusive society where every individual's experiences are acknowledged and respected. A powerful example is the #MeToo movement, which empowered survivors of sexual assault to break their silence while shedding light on the pervasiveness of such issues.
Catalyst for Change:
History has proven time and again that when people unite behind a common cause with a collective voice, they become unstoppable forces for change. It was the resolute voices of suffragettes that won women the right to vote in many countries worldwide. Similarly, civil rights leaders fought against racial segregation through peaceful protests and speeches that ultimately led to significant legal reforms.
Inspiring Others:
When you find the courage to speak up and share your experiences, you inspire others to do the same. Your voice can become a catalyst for change in someone else's life, encouraging them to confront their own challenges and advocate for themselves or stand up against injustice. By using your voice authentically and fearlessly, you create a ripple effect that spreads empowerment throughout your community.
Overcoming Challenges:
Speaking up is not always easy; it often comes with risks and hurdles. However, by embracing discomfort, we grow stronger and more resilient. When faced with adversity or opposition, remember that every great movement encountered resistance before achieving success. Use these challenges as opportunities to refine your message, learn from differing perspectives, and build bridges of understanding.
The power of using your own voice cannot be understated. Whether standing up for yourself or advocating for others, speaking out has the potential to transform lives and shape societies. It may feel daunting at times, but remember that even small acts of courage can have profound impacts in creating positive change. So let us embrace our voices, unleashing their power to uplift ourselves and those around us. Together, we can make a difference by speaking up, even when it is hard to do so.
Finding the Power of Voice: Lessons from Laurie Halse Anderson's "Speak"
Shaina Tranquilino
October 22, 2023

In a society where silence is often seen as weakness, "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson serves as an empowering testament to the strength that can be found in speaking up. This poignant novel delves deep into the life of Melinda Sordino, a high school freshman who becomes an outcast after experiencing a traumatic event. Through her journey, readers are not only exposed to the harsh realities faced by many teenagers but are also provided with invaluable lessons on self-discovery, resilience, and the importance of finding one's voice.
Lesson 1: The Power of Silence: At first glance, it may seem contradictory that a book about speaking revolves around silence. However, "Speak" highlights the significance of silence as a psychological defense mechanism. Melinda's refusal to speak acts as a barrier between herself and others, shielding her from confronting her trauma head-on. This lesson emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding when encountering individuals who might choose silence as their means of communication.
Lesson 2: The Impact of Trauma: Through Melinda's experience, "Speak" tackles the sensitive topic of trauma and its profound effect on mental health. The author illustrates how a single traumatic event can result in PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), depression, and anxiety. By shedding light on these struggles, Anderson urges readers to recognize and empathize with those silently battling their own demons.
Lesson 3: Self-Expression through Art: Art plays an integral role in helping Melinda find solace amidst her pain. She discovers an outlet for self-expression through her art class, allowing her emotions to manifest visually onto canvas. This teaches us that creativity can serve as a powerful tool for healing and personal growth when words fail us.
Lesson 4: The Importance of Speaking Up: As the title suggests, one central theme throughout "Speak" is the significance of finding and using one's voice. Melinda's eventual decision to break her silence leads not only to her own healing but also to justice being served for what she endured. This lesson serves as a reminder that our voices have the power to effect change, whether it be on an individual or societal level.
Lesson 5: The Value of Friendship: As Melinda navigates through her tumultuous high school experience, she finds solace in unexpected friendships. "Speak" sheds light on the importance of genuine connections and support systems during difficult times. It reminds us that true friends are those who empathize, listen without judgment, and encourage personal growth.
Laurie Halse Anderson's "Speak" stands as a powerful literary work that explores themes of trauma, resilience, and self-discovery. Through Melinda Sordino's journey from silence to speaking up, readers are reminded of the strength that lies within each of us. By addressing important issues faced by teenagers today and teaching valuable life lessons, this novel continues to resonate with readers young and old alike, encouraging them to find their voice and embrace their personal power.
My uncle is autistic so he has sensory sensitivities, and he's largely nonverbal so he can't tell you what those sensitivities Are, so what he does is, if you give him a shirt that is a bad texture, he goes and gets his scissors and he cuts it into tiny little pieces so no one can ever ask him to wear it ever again, and the thing is is that he is so totally right
And so I shout out:" I want to change the world!"
But between the laugther of friends and the explosions of bombs, my voice gets lost.
I ask myself "When will the sound waves of my voice form a tsunami? When will my words bite like sharks to those who dare stepping into my home? When will my speech sink the ships of the enemy? When will the sand be swapped away from beneath their feet with my words? When will the rhythm of my talk soothe them to sleep?
When will the ripple of my tone bathe the kids in summer?
"
Speak up for yourself. Scream to the ones who will not listen, say the words of those without a voice. The soundless words hold every thought and feeling of the writer.
Place every vowel, every consonant with care. Every letter changes the meaning. Every word can change a world.