ALT Eden’s individual goodbye: As you know by now, we’re saying goodbye. We all felt it would be proper for me to say a few more things individually, because I was the most active here and because my decision to take a step back is what prompted us all to consider whether this account is something we have the time and energy to commit to right now. So, here’s what I have to say:    I’m not saying goodbye to advocacy work, but I am saying goodbye to this account and, to an extent, social media more broadly - at least for the time being. All of my previous posts will remain up for people to see and refer to. While I’m sure they contain honest mistakes, I created them in good faith and with a commitment to academic integrity. I hope they continue to benefit others into the future.

ALT Since stepping away from social media, I’ve learned a lot about myself and the world that I would not necessarily have learned otherwise. I’ve realized that taking in all of the stimuli and managing the stress that comes with being on social media has been too much for me to handle. I am not currently capable of running an account like this. The number of people with their eyes on me expanded exponentially over the past few years and it was far too much for me to keep up with as one person, without any formal supports or help. I am also a teenager who needs to focus on college and my in-person relationships.

ALT That said, I am continuing to grow and expand my mind as an activist. All of us who are committed to justice – regardless of our particular identities and systemic positions – can benefit from self-reflection and contemplation of both our common humanity and nuanced individuality. We also must build the capacity to be accountable to communities while at the same time standing in solidarity. Some people I’ve been learning from are Professor Loretta Ross, who teaches at Smith College; Professor Irshad Manji; Alastair McIntosh; Dr. Cornel West; and Dr. Michael Steven Newton, who runs the Hidden Glen Folk School.

ALT I wish the best for all of you, and I hope those of you who have found value in my writing will continue to use and refer to it as you see fit, and that it will continue to help you in your lives. I’m very grateful for all of the connections and friends I made here, and I will remember you all. Thank you for supporting me during this chapter of my life, and with that, goodbye for now.  Sincerely, Eden