Two months ago, I decided to open up to my social media audience about my personal struggles. After dealing with ongoing pain and symptoms, I was preparing to have my breast implants removed and found out that I had a recurrence of breast cancer in my chest wall. Upon discovering a lump, I quickly contacted my doctor, which resulted in a series of appointments and scans, leading to my second breast cancer diagnosis in just four years.
I felt compelled to share my experience because keeping it to myself was overwhelming. I firmly believe in transforming personal trials into opportunities for advocacy and education, aiming to help others avoid similar fates or support them through their own challenges. Following my breast cancer announcement, my follower count surged into the thousands. However, this growth came to an abrupt halt when I began discussing the critical issue of anti-racism.
Initially, my posts focused on updates regarding my surgeries and recovery. I continued advocating for self-breast exams and welcomed many new followers, some of whom shared their own breast cancer experiences. I received overwhelming support, including gifts for my family and encouraging messages. Yet, when I shifted to discussing anti-racism, my follower count began to plummet—dozens and then hundreds unfollowed me. It seemed that while my cancer journey garnered sympathy and support, addressing racism made many uncomfortable enough to disengage.
I received messages from some who suggested what I should be discussing on my social media. Some expressed confusion over why I was “racist against white people,” and I took the opportunity to clarify that such a concept does not exist, just as colorblindness and reverse racism are misconceptions. Others insisted I should stick to health-related content, not realizing that anti-racism is not a political stance but a moral imperative that influences all aspects of life. We all have a responsibility to be anti-racist.
It appears that my journey through cancer is more palatable for many than confronting the harsh realities faced by people of color, including my own children. When I pointed out the unfollows on social media, a few responded with “good riddance.” Initially, I thought that maybe it was for the best. However, the more I pondered, the more disheartened I became. If they could not handle a white woman discussing these topics, I worried they were not engaging with BIPOC voices either.
Their actions reflect deeply ingrained beliefs that perpetuate systems of privilege and fragility. The consequences of their mindset manifest in various settings—meetings, sports fields, and community spaces—where racism can spread through microaggressions and stereotypes. Ironically, those who need to engage in unlearning racial inequity the most are the ones who choose to disengage. They seem more interested in following my cancer journey than in learning how to support marginalized communities.
I refuse to stop discussing the importance of anti-racism, even if it costs me followers. My presence on social media is not about seeking popularity; it’s about sharing valuable information for the benefit of others. I’ve remained committed to this mission, wishing that the lives and equity of my children mattered as much to others as my health updates and cancer scars.
Ignoring the realities that people of color face only perpetuates systemic inequality. Ignorance is not bliss; it’s harmful to the Black community and endangers lives. Every white person has a duty to dismantle harmful systems. Choosing to ignore these issues in favor of distraction is not an option if we aspire to create an equitable society. The priority should never be white comfort, but sadly, that often overshadows the real conversations we need to have.
To those who unfollowed me, I’ve noticed, but I don’t desperately need your presence. What concerns me is the reason behind your departure. I wonder when, if ever, you will recognize that the value of another’s life is equally as significant as your own.
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Probable Search Queries:
- home insemination kit
- self insemination techniques
- how to support BIPOC voices
- breast cancer awareness
- importance of anti-racism
In summary, the growing pains of sharing personal experiences on social media can lead to unexpected outcomes. While advocacy for cancer awareness brought support, addressing anti-racism revealed uncomfortable truths about followers’ willingness to engage with critical social issues. It underscores the need for ongoing conversations about race and privilege.
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