May 31, 2020

Black Lives Matter: Our Stance

It's important to acknowledge what you already know. We’re living through a critical moment in a world with a long history of injustice.

At Tease Tea, here is where we stand.

Black Lives Matter. Police violence, and systemic racism are, and have always been, inhumane. There are also countless less visible forms of mistreatment, aggression, and racism that are subtle, but still exist and contribute dangerously to these issues.

We recognize that the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery are only the most recent in a long list, and that these losses are compounded with a global pandemic whose effects have been felt more devastatingly by people of color, due to the same system of oppression.

While Tease Tea is proudly Canadian, we recognize these injustices and racism are not a United States issue. They are a global issue. As a company, we've had our share of missteps like many. Though we are here to continue to listen, learn, and reflect on ways we can act.

We invite those who are new to racial justice work to join us as we walk the path together. We have a lot to learn, unlearn, and just as importantly, to do.

We believe that actions speak louder than words. Here are some ways you can join us.

Immediate Action: Sign this Petition to Defund Police & Invest in Black Communities. If you can, donate to Campaign Zero, a team created research-based policy solutions against police brutality, or the Federation of Black Canadians that advances the social, economic, political and cultural interests of Canadians of African descent.
Learn & Unlearn: This week, books such as Me and White Supremacy, How to Be Anti-Racist, and White Fragility are sold out everywhere with good reason, though you can still purchase audible versions. Here is a incredible folder with resources curated by Canadian entrepreneur, Cheryl K Sutherland.
Make Connections: We’re utilizing our Founders Fund program and Tease Tea community/platform to find ways to connect and amplify the critical conversations happening right now, and moving forward.
Finally, we fundamentally believe the hard work starts with the heart work. This means getting uncomfortable and having the difficult conversations about racism within our own home and with our family & friends. This is also where we carry the most power and influence, with those who trust us. Consider referencing this resource which includes talking points if you're unsure how to engage in these difficult conversations, including calling out racism when we hear it.