Saying All Lives Matter is problematic. It is dismissive of the systemic problems in U.S. culture that oppress people of color (POC).
Almost all activists supporting the "Black Lives Matter" (BLM) movement find it frustrating to explain why "All Lives Matter" is troubling. I identify as a white female and understand that I come from a place of privilege. I will do my best to break down why to not support "All Lives Matter," but, please engage in discussion in the comments if I miss a key point or if you need further information on the implications of "All Lives Matter."
1. Why this argument is wrong: “We shouldn’t value one life over another.”
BLM isn’t about giving a POC an advantage in education, work and life in general. It is about striving for equality. The idea that BLM is getting special treatment because of the color of their skin isn’t fair. Here is a thought to mull over: White people have benefited from slavery and global imperialism at the expense of POC. The privilege white people have is rooted in the fact that whites, historically, have valued their lives over other races; don’t believe me, read the part of the constitution where a three-fifths compromise was met.
2. Where was the All Lives Matter movement before BLM came about?
All Lives Matter is a counter protest to BLM. It is an attempt to dismiss the BLM. Therefore, it seeks to perpetuate racism. How ironic. How misguided.
3. Reaching equality
If we support the All Lives Matter movement, we are ignoring the fact that POC are not treated equally in this country. There is a reason for the protests; there is a reason that people no longer want to stay quiet. POC are not treated equally in the United States if they are sentenced to prison, trying to run for office, or looking for employment.
If every life matters, then surely you will make sure to stand up for your brothers and sisters of color. Everyone knows that every life is important. The problem is that not every life is treated as important. I stand with BLM because I want equality.
Also, I encourage everyone reading this article (especially the white people) to research more about why "All Lives Matter" is wrong. You may not agree with everything that "Black Lives Matter" stands for or the protests happening across the nation and that’s okay; however, do not support a counter movement that supports the oppression of people of color.
