LINES OF THE DAY

". . . But the past does not exist independently from the present. Indeed, the past is only past because there is a present, just as I can point to something over there only because I am here. But nothing is inherently over there or here. In that sense, the past has no content. The past -- or more accurately, pastness -- is a position. Thus, in no way can we identify the past as past." p. 15

". . . But we may want to keep in mind that deeds and words are not as distinguishable as often we presume. History does not belong only to its narrators, professional or amateur. While some of us debate what history is or was, others take it into their own hands." p. 153

Silencing the Past: Power and the Production of History (1995) by Michel-Rolph Trouillot

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Black Lives Matter, The Young, and Activism

     . . . . The BLM Protests seem to be having salutary political effect across the board, actively uniting us, of all heritages and conditions in life, in a way not seen in the USA in decades.  May this be only the foundation for permanent change and progress, Please Universe!

Expanding the hopefulness of the moment: 

. . . . We are Informed As What To Do About Racism.

As each succeeding generation of the Young, bless their hearts! (and I mean this sincerely) invent sex, so do The Young invent social justice and activism!

Our friends' children, who are in their 20's, are sending their parents and their parents' friends open letters on how to listen to People of Color, understand that all POC are not the same in culture and experience and attitude, to not get angry when called out for racial behavior, and not to hide behind, "But I have a black friend." Speak out when injustice and insensitivity and ignorance are displayed among our friends. Also, "understand that there is racism in the music industry and that everyone has profited from black music and racism."

This isn't really funny, I suppose, but we all cannot help but at least, to enjoy the lecture. Starting with the content of the lecture, the very words generally used, we've been hearing this -- and hopefully learning this -- since we were younger than the kids are now.

Still, you know, I'm down with their advice! It was good advice back then, and it's still good advice now.

Though and additional bit of advice should be addressed to we white people: Do these things, including speaking out against racist action and systemic abuse to our friends. But! Do not make it about yourself. Do Not request / expect special recognition and gratitude for being a very special good white person from all and sundry. Being decent person should be typical behavior, not about making anti-racism about oneself, and getting awarded gold stars and stickers.

It's the equivalent of a husband noticing finally that his wife is working constantly all day, every day, while he doesn't do a thing to assist her/him.

He says, "Honey, wow, you work so hard!  And now I've earned special husband points for noticing how hard you work."


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