We want you to know that we see you. We want you to know that we try to and want to make space for you here at Scootadoot. We want you to know that we are disgusted by the events in Charlottesville last weekend that were perpetrated by hearts filled with hate who seek to harm people of color. We stand with you. We cannot imagine what you’re feeling and experiencing right now. We are fighting in our own communities for your equality and to end hatred and bigotry. We hear you. We love you. You are beautiful. You deserve safety. You deserve respect. You deserve full equality. Please know that we value you. We want you here. You are part of our family.

 To everyone else, if this post makes you uncomfortable, that sucks. Please know that we will always be a fitness blog, but that we feel fitness includes mental health and overall wellness. In light of the events in Charlottesville, we feel it is important to address the fact that our fellow Americans of color cannot experience complete wellness and mental health in our America. What we have seen play out in the last week has been happening for hundreds of years. Literally. This is the daily reality for POC. This is a reality that white folks (like us) will never experience or be able to fully understand.

Moreover, we feel it is important to acknowledge that what happened in Charlottesville is just a current and obvious instance of the racism, white supremacy, bigotry and oppression that is systemic in our country. These injustices go deeper than angry protests and ugly words – they are written into the very laws that govern America. We have an obligation to demand change.

We want to hear from you. Please share how Charlottesville is affecting you. Please be respectful and courteous so we can have productive dialogue. Thank you!