Let's Move Forward to Better

How are you?

We're in a big moment of history. Amidst the backdrop of the pandemic, we saw a movement begin that I hope can bring true change to our country and around the world. In the last month, I've had more conversations about race than I ever have in my life. It's been a month of intense self-reflection, listening, learning and my eyes and heart have never been more open. I'll definitely continue this and incorporate anti-racism into my daily life.

How can we ensure that this is a movement not a moment? By continuing to share and have conversations about race and social justice. By educating ourselves on systemic oppression and acting to change it. By exercising our right to vote and supporting reforms and candidates who will help bring us forward.

You know that as a business, I care deeply about the environment and the outdoors. I recognize now that we can't talk about climate justice without also addressing and acting in support of racial justice. Environmental racism is a deep issue that must be part of the conversation and I'm continuing to figure out how I can do more. I'll continue to use ethical materials in all of my products and packaging and ensure that the companies I work with are aligned with my values of social and environmental justice. There is certainly more to do, and this is just the start.

I'm in full support of the Black Lives Matter movement and will continue to self-educate, have conversations with friends and family, as well as sign petitions and make donations.

A portion of all sales from Smeeny Beanie Knits will now support the

Intersectional Environmentalist and the National Park Foundation. 

Through Smeeny Beanie Knits, I feel that my donations will have a bigger impact at the grassroots level. The Intersectional Environmentalist is a new community-led organization creating and sharing resources for intersectionality. They are a group of young environmental and sustainability activists educating and holding the environmental community accountable. Through this organization, the community members are working to create programs and share resource on topics of the environment through an intersectional lens. You can read more about the Intersectional Environmentalist here.

*Graphics from the Intersectional Environmentalist

What we do makes an impact and it's up to us to create a better world.
 

There is no normal to go back to, let's move forward to better.

Thank you for being on this journey with me. 

Together, we can truly make a difference. 

If you are looking for more resources and ways to help or learn, check out the Intersectional Environmentalist. If you have anything to add or share, please send me an email at hello@smeenybeanieknits.com or send me a message on Instagram and let me know.

As always, Stay Wild!

With so much love,

Chereen