Hill Harper On 4 Things You Can Do Right Now To Fight For Social Justice

We truly believe at mbg that actions speak louder than words, and right now, it's the time for action that leads to impact, which is why we consulted humanitarian, award-winning actor, and four-time New York Times bestselling author Hill Harper on what we can do from here to make our country better for the minorities who have suffered for far too long.

"No matter who you are, the thing you can't do is nothing," Harper says. Everyone has a part to play in finding justice, so don't think you should stand back on the sidelines. Everyone has a valuable experience to add to the conversation: "As a black man, I'm usually not there when groups of white men say all those covert racist things that can be emboldened by police," he explains. Meaning, white men bear witness to racist actions and can share their expertise just from being in the room. The bottom line: Everyone is worthy to fight this fight, and the worst thing you can do is stay silent.

For white people, Harper says it's important to admit and understand that you have benefited from an inherently racist system. "People have to be willing to say, 'I have benefited from these systems, and I have to figure out certain ways I may not benefit as much anymore to help other people benefit as well.'"

In other words, put your privilege on the line by making yourself uncomfortable. Have difficult conversations with friends and family members; speak up to your boss if you see something potentially harmful; reach out to your mayor if you feel a certain official should not remain in their role. In other words, risk breaking the status quo. 

As Harper mentioned, everyone has a part to play in the fight for social justice. So find what makes your heart pound, and run with it: For many, that's police brutality. So find out who your police chief is: "Were they appointed by the mayor, the county official, or elected into office? What's their relationship with the district attorney?" says Harper. Do your research, and find strategic ways to take action. 

You've seen it posted all over social media, heard it from the mouths of activists and educators: Vote. While voting is just one ingredient in the "social justice pie" we have to bake, according to Harper, it's crucial for the whole endeavor.

And he's not just talking about national elections. Think locally, too: "Eighty percent of DA's run unopposed," Harper tells me. But think about it—if there were a progressive DA in the running, they could start to charge cops with murder if there was a justifiable use of force. That would certainly make a difference on the ground. Harper agrees: "That will change behavior real quick."

There's so much work to do, but everyone has a part to play in the actions that follow. While learning and education are at the forefront of change, it's not enough to standby. As Harper says, "Intended, strategic, continuous, action on a daily basis is more important than good intentions."