With the news that a number of peaceful protests are set to take place in Basingstoke this week following the death of George Floyd, we have looked at ways residents can help in the fight against racism.

But first, why are people protesting? 

On May 25, George Floyd was killed in the US city of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Footage show a white police officer kneeling on his neck for almost nine minutes, while Floyd repeated ‘I can’t breathe’.

An officer has since been charged with murder for Floyd’s death. No charges have yet been filed against three other police officers present at Floyd’s killing.

His death has triggered protests first across the US and then in Europe, England and now Basingstoke.

Protesters are showing support for the movement Black Lives Matter, which was founded in 2013 in response to the killings of black people. Now people of all races, living in dozens of countries, are looking for ways to help.

We have compiled a list of ways that members of the public can help in this fight.

Protest

In this current climate of social distancing, it is understandable that some people will not want to gather in groups.

However, protesting in normal times can be a crucial way to highlight the visibility and success of campaigns – from women winning the vote to LGBTQ+ rights.

With mass public gatherings still banned in many countries, it may seem difficult to take to the streets right now. But many protests are still taking place, with social distancing and mask-wearing encouraged. And some acts of protest are being arranged that don’t need you to go any further than your doorstep.

The British campaign group Stand Up To Racism (SUTR) are calling on everyone to kneel on the doorstep as a sign of unity, but also a socially distant one.

Back petitions

There are a number of petitions circulating in the wake of George Floyd’s killing, and you can add your name now. #JusticeforFloyd and Justice for George Floyd are demanding that all officers present at Floyd’s death be arrested and charge with murder.

You can sign the 'Justice for George Floyd' petition which has more than 15 million signatures here.

Donate

A number of fundraising drives have been created to support Floyd's family, bail out protesters who have been arrested and support the wider Black Lives Matter movement.

You can donate to the Minnesota Freedom Fund here.

Educate

If you are not black, one of the most important things you can do is learn about the situation and educate yourself on oppression, systematic racism and privilege.

Don't ask your black friends or people you follow on social media to help you. Use Google instead. This website has lots of resources: hypebae.com/2020/6/resources-on-privilege-black-lives-matter-protests-video-education-injustice-explanation-support.

Support black people

If you want to help on an individual level, support black businesses. Employ black people, buy their books, musics and fines. Offer to give help and guidance to black students if you work in a heavily-white industry. Amplify their voices by sharing their stories and work on social media. You can find a list of black-owned businesses here: www.ukblackowned.co.uk.