Episode 6: Street Roots Podcast host DeVon Pouncey asks white listeners to lean into their privilege and power
DeVon Pouncey, Street Roots' vendor program manager, used the latest episode of the Street Roots Podcast to share his feelings about watching the brutal killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis at the hands of police officers.
“For me it brought a lot of anger, it brought a lot of frustration," said Pouncey, who reflected on the events from his perspective as an African American man. "It had me wanting to act in a way that I just can’t because I hold my responsibility in high regard. If my actions were to match my mental things would be flipping all over the place."
Pouncey also spoke to his white counterparts who are looking for ways to fight against these issues that are plaguing America.
“It’s time for you to start leaning into your privilege of being a white person in this country," he said. "It’s time for you to lean into your power. And its time for you to lean into your status in this country to speak out, voice up and give opportunities to the oppressed. … Give opportunities to people when you see that there isn’t a high representation of blackness or people of color, whenever you are in your most comfortable places and spaces.”
Pouncey spoke from his perspective as the only African American man on Street Roots full-time staff. Pouncey recognized Sophie Maziraga, who is also a black Street Roots staffer. Desmond Hardison also has been canvassing for Street Roots since its earliest days.
Pouncey spoke from his perspective as an African American man working at Street Roots. Pouncey also recognized Street Roots' other full-time black staffer, program coordinator Sophie Maziraga. In addition, we would like to acknowledge our team member Desmond Hardison, who is also African American. While Hardison does most of his work for Street Roots outside the office, he has placed a central role in the organization since its earliest days. And we recognize and appreciate all of our black Street Roots vendors.
Listen to the full episode below.
The Street Roots Podcast reflects the opinions of host DeVon Pouncey and his guests.
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