We Gotta Have It: Black and Brown ideologies on solidarity

Abstract

Amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the disparities of healthcare for Black and Brown communities, the tragic and senseless deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and Rashard Brooks took place before we were halfway into 2020. Furthermore, while Black deaths at the hands of police are the highest rate compared to all groups, Latinos follow right behind at almost twice the rate compared to Whites, which highlight how both Black and Brown communities face the same crisis and oppression, and both face the greater need for solidarity. Reflecting on a recent historical period of our socio-political culture, this article endeavors to expose how the media’s influence has amplified the need to reignite a rallying cry of race and identities across the globe. Utilizing our educational backgrounds and classroom experiences, we examine what can be learned by amplifying the importance of culturally relevant pedagogy and solidarity through the lens of Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It series on Netflix. We specifically explore the oneness of Black and Brown people and highlight how solidarity is key for upliftment and well-being.

Latinx and Asian Engagement/Complicity in Anti-Blackness

“…Our own understandings and our own consciousness-raising are still in the process of entering these conversations addressing anti-Blackness. Therefore, Sankofa et al (2022) suggest that "Black and Brown 5 solidarity can be exercised when and only when all parties are made aware of the facts of identity" (Sankofa et al 2022, p. 205). Now, we have to move beyond ourselves and think collectively.…”

“…Consciousness is a tool of solidarity (Sankofa et al 2022), and "the possessive investment in honorary whiteness must be critically interrogated, challenged, and further understood in reshaping and awakening critical racial consciousness" (J. W. Kim 2022, pp. 187-188).…”