My first blog… and yet I still have no idea how I want to start it. But I guess that the most reasonable way to begin would be with a proper introduction. For those of you who are new here, or even hopping over from Instagram, my name is Sydney Scott. I am a 21-year-old Psych student, who loves to sing, take long drives, watch an unhealthy amount of horror movies, and probably should spend more time with friends my own age instead of my family (although I am so privileged to experience this kind of love and hope you can, too).
And while I am a summary of all of these moments, interests, and values, this is not about discussing who I have always known myself to be… it is about all of the pieces of me I have denied up until this point. The aspects of myself that society, and so many others, taught me to feel shame around or insignificant for being. This blog reflects my experiences and collected understandings of existing as a young, Black, Jewish girl who is navigating mental health in a world that is not created for me, or anyone who does not fit societal ideals, more specifically, the ones defined and upheld by systems of oppression.
It is in consideration of the moments I was told, “You don’t sound or act Black,” or the times pennies were thrown my way as I skipped along the playground, or all the horrible “jokes” I have heard over the years. This is to address what we all already know to be true. It is to be loud in a world that demands we remain silent about the inequities, oppression, and the downright hatred we experience and, sometimes, and not always intentionally, perpetuate.
And while I have come to a point in my life where I am ready for my voice to be heard, I will not do so in a manner that silences others. I am affected by oppressive systems, but they do not erase the mass amount of privilege I hold, such as in regard to my sexuality, my ability to access all spaces, the fairness of my skin, and much more. So, yes, I will use my voice, but not without elevating others.
Many of these conversations are not mine to lead and those who have already led them have been ignored, or worse, erased. I do not want this space to contribute to that narrative. Instead, discussions will actually recognize those who started them and, hopefully, provide the space for them to lead these conversations again.
I am sure you are now aware that these will be some heavy conversations and topics, and nothing is off the table. We will discuss police brutality, anti-Semitism, how to become better allies, fatphobia, and more. With that being said, however, this is not something to fear, because we are here to grow. I am not here to shame you; I am here to learn beside you.
While I want us to get uncomfortable, I want everyone to know they are safe to do so. Everyone is welcomed here. We will listen to each other, we will mess up, and we will learn to evolve. Because this work is never-ending, and this does not need to be a bad thing.
But I think these are things you already know. Whether you realize it or not, a part of you desires to grow, to create spaces where all are welcomed, respected, and valued, otherwise, you would not have stumbled across this site. And now that you are here, I hope that you stay. Please, stay tuned for new blogs, texts, prompts, and resources every Tuesday!