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I’ve always considered running to be the most accessible sport. No talent required and it’s inexpensive too! All you need is a pair of running shoes and the open road. But the open road isn’t free for everyone. For Ahmaud Arbery, running on the open road cost his life. It’s been exactly 4 months since Ahmaud was shot to death while out running, and almost 7 weeks since we #ranwithMaud. Since then, I have come to realize that my experience as runner has given me a limited perspective. I run a lot on my own and I’ve never worried about my safety in broad daylight. I’ve never considered that my whiteness protects me - until now. Running alone in safety should be a right. It is something I’ve taken for granted and believed was available to everyone, but I was wrong. Running is a privilege. And that’s a problem. I want to invite all runners who enjoy this specific privilege - the protection of whiteness - not to forget Ahmaud Arbery. We need to acknowledge that our fellow runners who are Black and Brown do not share the protection we enjoy. We need to listen and discover the endless ways we are privileged and protected by whiteness. We need to learn and acknowledge the racism and prejudice that we often unknowingly participate in. And then try to be different. Sincerely,
Nicole
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