Fenix Youth Project Fenix Youth Project

COVID-19 Precautions

Young Lifestyle

Every day more and more things begin to open up, as the world tries to fall back into the flow of things before COVID. While some of us may be ready, others are not accepting of the fact that this is happening. 

A lot of people think it is too soon or that the government is just trying to get back to making their money. I don't disagree with these notions. I personally am impartial in this matter. I like to believe that maybe it is time for things to get back to "normal”, but I also believe that some decisions are being made simply because the government wants to get back to profiting off of their people. 

Whichever way you decide be mindful of those who may not agree with it. Consider the fact that some people are not ready, and they still hold the fear that they may catch COVID. 

Then remember if you're not ready to go out, then you are not obligated to. Don't sacrifice your mental state to please others or follow the crowd of people into the malls, stores, and restaurants. You work this out on your own time, and with time hopefully, you are ready to step back into the world.

Differences of opinions happen in these situations, and that's okay. If you are stepping back out into the world or you absolutely have to go out, take the government recommended precautions. 

·       Continue practicing social distancing. 

·       Wear your masks when going into a building. 

·       Avoid big crowds. 

·       Wash and sanitize your hands often (Sanitizer should not be used in place of handwashing). 

·       If you're sick stay home.

All in all, just be mindful of those around you as the world begins to once again open up. Stay safe out there.

 T. Neal | Cambridge, MD

Disclaimer: Fenix Youth Project Inc. supports young writers and their voices and providing them with a platform to submit think pieces, poetry, short stories, and also reflect on experiences and program events. All blog posts are reviewed by the Executive Director, Amber Green. Blog posts are the opinions and reflections of writers and do not represent the organization as a whole. Questions and comments can be emailed to ambergreen@fenixyouthproject.org. 

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What Does it Take to be a Decent Human Being?

It costs nothing to be a decent human being. 

You most likely read that in your head, but this time I want you to say it out loud. Repeat after me: It costs nothing to be a decent human being. 

I have heard this statement so much in my life, and it is one of the truest statements that I have ever heard. I mean think about how much money you have spent simply by smiling at someone or considering their feelings. The truth is if you just think about it, you'll see that being a decent human is really just the bare minimum. 

Something so simple as a smile could trigger a chain of events that can change more than one person's day.

After reading this I want you to make a creative piece based on what makes you a decent human being. It doesn't have to be big; it could be something so simple as holding open the door for someone or helping a neighbor carry in their groceries. 

Whatever it is that makes you a decent human being express that using your choice of medium. After you've expressed yourself, reflect on it. Ask yourself, "What new things can I do that will continue to make me a decent human being?"

Remember it really does cost nothing.  

T. Neal | Cambridge, MD 

Disclaimer: Fenix Youth Project Inc. supports young writers and their voices and providing them with a platform to submit think pieces, poetry, short stories, and also reflect on experiences and program events. All blog posts are reviewed by the Executive Director, Amber Green. Blog posts are the opinions and reflections of writers and do not represent the organization as a whole. Questions and comments can be emailed to ambergreen@fenixyouthproject.org. 

 

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Anti-Racism Resources | Funds to support

We must all continue to hold each other accountable in dismantling and ending white supremacy so that we can all dream, build, and flourish in the loving, just systems we deserve. We call upon our white and non-Black community members to show up, educate themselves and each other, and listen and support Black people. Anti-racist work and ending anti-Blackness is our responsibility.

Funds to Support

If you can donate, here are places to support:

Anti-Racism Resources

Reading List

  • How the U.S Got It's Police Force (Article), Time Magazine, Olivia Waxman, May 18, 2017

  • Torture Trees: Police Violence from Chicago to the War on Terror by Laurence Ralph

  • How to be Anti Racist by Ibram Kendi

  • Freedom is a Constant Struggle by Angela Davis

  • The Case for Reparations (Article) by Ta-Nehisi Coates

  • Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People about Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge /Article Version in The Guardian

  • The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration In The Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander

  • White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk about Racism by Robin DiAngelo

  • The Substance of Hope by Jelani Cobb

  • Your Silence will not Protect You (Essays) by Audre Lourde

  • Charleston Syllabus: Readings on Race, Racism, and Racial Violence, Editor: Chad Williams

Children's books:

  • Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry by Mildred Taylor

  • Something Happened in Our Town: A Child's Story about Racial Injustice by Marianne Celano

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