Each year, as the weather gets colder, Bowdoin Student Government (BSG) kicks off a month of anti-bias programming dubbed “No Hate November” where students, faculty and invited guests give lectures and host events aimed at addressing intolerance on campus. This semester, this has been limited to three talks, presented instead by affinity groups.

We understand that organizing programming this year can be difficult, but it remains that No Hate November is integral to our community’s shared goal of fostering diversity and inclusion at Bowdoin. In a time that merits more discussion of racial justice than ever before, we must extend these conversations into our homes dotted all around the country and the world.

This is a busy time. We all are struggling through the strange, new normal of online classes as we navigate the constant stress of a global pandemic and an election of incredible tension and significance. We are stressed. We are tired. We are anxious. But we can at least take the first steps. There are ways that we can still engage in the action of racial justice and equity wherever we are, in whatever way we can and with whatever capacity we have. If we put off doing the work, it will never get done.

Look for opportunities to engage with these topics. We can longer be complacent. Do whatever you can, wherever you are now. Work with those around you. Many of us may be traveling home in the coming days, where we will remain for several weeks during the winter holidays. Use this opportunity to encourage your loved ones to commit to growing with you. Conversations about politics and social justice with family members can be incredibly challenging, but it is our responsibility to teach—and learn from—those closest to us.

These steps may seem small, but they are only a beginning. After all, it has never been enough for No Hate November to be contained within a single month, but we have still derived meaning from dedicating each November to social justice. We have (hopefully) already started what will be a lifetime of learning and working, and we must continue advocating for racial equality.

This editorial represents the majority view of the Orient’s Editorial Board, which is comprised of Joanne Du, Julia Jennings, Katie King, Diego Lasarte, Kate Lusignan and Nina McKay