You can say a lot of things about 2020, it's crazy, it's cursed, WTF?, but one thing is for sure, this year has been transformational in the way we live. I hope that when I look back on this year, I will be able to have a more charitable perspective, but maybe not. Covid changed the way we do just about everything. Schools, restaurants, shopping venues, amusement parts and places of employment shut down. Starting in March all of the venues for art shows and classes I was planning to teach were cancelled. A sense of powerlessness prevailed. It also became a time for self reflection.
Then things just got worse.
When George Floyd was murdered by the police in my hometown, I was devastated. Living in a multiracial family makes issues regarding race and social justice very personal for me. When my 13 year old grandson expressed his own fears that the police could target and hurt him and I couldn't reassure him otherwise, I knew I needed to do more that just protest.
Thus, the Jewelry for Justice campaign on Instagram was born. Twenty three of you participated in buying stacking rings and last week I sent a check for $2260 to the Southern Poverty Law Center. A big thank you to everyone who joined me in this endeavor!
So where do I go now? I have thought for a while about moving the bulk of my business to online sales and with the end of Covid nowhere in sight, now seems to be the time to do that.
Since I don't have show fees or travel expenses, I plan to donate a portion of all online sales to fight for social justice. Here is the plan so far:
All online sales are eligible for 10% savings and free shipping in the U.S.
An additional 10% of all online sales will for to fight for social justice and you will get a receipt for your taxes reflecting your donation.
I will be starting some online classes for my wonderful jewelry students. 10% of your class fee will be donated and you will receive a receipt for your taxes as well. Let me know what classes you would like to see me teach online. Leave your ideas in the comment section below!
I would love to hear your input and ideas as we move forward into our new world.
Love,
Laura
xoxoxo