Noun: a friend who is usually only called upon by a friend when a more primary/prominent friend is unavailable.

Taken from the term “second string” in an athletic competition situation. In football, if the star quarterback gets injured during a play, the second string is called off the bench to replace him/her. A “Second String Friend” is essentially benched until needed, if ever.

Synonyms: Plan B, Second Choice, Secondary Friend, Benched Until Needed

A man or woman, of any color, sexuality, religion, or background, who is morally opposed to senseless hate. A person who believes strongly that all people are equal, and is willing to stand up for that belief.

Active hostility toward or discrimination against racism or racist behavior.

Someone actively working to define and dismantle racism.

"What's the problem with being 'not racist'? It is a claim that signifies neutrality: 'I am not a racist but neither am I aggressively against racism.' But there is no neutrality in the racism struggle.

The opposite of 'racist' isn't 'not racist'. It is 'antiracist'.

What's the difference? One endorses either the idea of a racial hierarchy as a racist, or racial equality as an antiracist. One either believes the problems are rooted in groups of people, as a racist, or locates the roots of problems in power and policies, as an antiracist. One either allows racial inequities to persevere, as a racist, or confronts racial inequalities, as an antiracist.

There is no in-between safe space of 'not racist'. The claim of 'not racist' neutrality is a mask for racism." - Ibram X Kendi

If you have read this definition and are now confronted with the fact that you might be racist, it's okay. I was there with you only months ago. What's not okay is to have this realization and to neglect the work.

Your past does not define your future. Pick up a copy of Kendi's book "How To Be An Antiracist" and start doing this important work. I'm right there with you.