This life has always been a complex tapestry of identities and experiences. We remain shaped by the world around us. These days, my thoughts are consumed by the impending elections for the presidency and congressional seats this fall. We should keep in mind that this is occurring during a time of what I like to call “The Great Tension.” Americans are facing a volatile job market, steady rise in extremist doctrine (Red Pill, Proud Boys), and political uncertainty. With each passing month, disappointments abound.
While formulating these opinions on the upcoming election, I’m careful to not fall into what some may call “progressive regressivism.” We should feel emboldened through collective care, not moral or ethical superiority. Marginalized peoples deserve better and critiques laced in anti-Blackness, homophobia, misogyny, etc. are simply unacceptable. The possibility of another Donald Trump presidency is a very unfavorable, dangerous scenario. And it’s true that many of us are 100% against our government’s support of countries that are actively committing genocide. Rightfully so. Might I present a suggestion, an encouragement truly? Instead of further siloing ourselves off from one another, let’s move with purpose. We ought to try easing up on doom speak, fear mongering, and harsh interactions. The infighting is inescapable since people are not perfect nor should we be. But holding one another accountable should not come at the expense of respect for human kind. I believe we are creating new standards and can reshape the world. As we approach these vital crossroads, the decisions we make will affect the lives of future generations. It’s time for us to lock in, not opt-out. Especially with everything that’s happening.
Western governments such as the UK, US, and France continue to hold unwavering support for oppressive policies that betray human rights in totality. The African American, Congolese, Ayiti, Sudanese, Tigray, Papuan, and Palestinian struggles have always resonated deeply with me. Growing up, I recognized the parallels between the resilience of oppressed groups and the history of resistance in Ayiti. Many nations are enduring occupation and brutal attempts to eradicate their cultures and identities. Although the rise in support for aforementioned groups has been inspiring, mass media censorship persists. Informative tweets, TikToks, and Facebook posts are removed or hidden from timelines under the guise of “combating misinformation.” However…we know the truth. The general public has seen videos with the remains of innocents, whole generations wiped out after constant bombings. The push for information suppression reminds us that the revolution will not be televised. Marginalized people’s plights should be shown with dignity and honor.
Closer to home is the rise of misogynoir which fills me with great sadness. Black women and femmes often face the brunt of extreme political and social expectations. Stories of women like Sonya Massey, Breonna Taylor, Oluwatoyin Salau, and Rekia Boyd aren’t just news headlines but are stark reminders of the precariousness of our existence in societies that often devalues us. The wide acceptance of such violence is fueled by Red Pill/anti-Black ideologies. There’s an insidious push towards gendered hate speech on social media and other digital platforms. The primary ways allies and other groups can combat this is through advocacy, pushing for fair compensation, inclusive policies, and challenging misrepresentations. Providing better visibility for impactful organizations such as Justice for Black Girls and The Okra Project assist in their efforts to create equitable change.
The future of Millennials, Generation Z and Generation Alpha seems uncertain. We are burdened by global warming, rising rents and stagnant wages. Homelessness is on the rise and our birth rates continue to decline. For those of us who do want families, the economic reality makes it damn near impossible to even dream of bringing children into such a precarious and bleak world. The recent Supreme Court decisions on abortion, homelessness, etc. add another layer of fear. We are seeing human rights regress and the very fabric of our democracy threatened. And yet, I hold on to hope. Our generations are marked by their resilience and their relentless search for justice. We’ve grown up in a world that is quite brutal. But many of us have also witnessed the power of collective action. It’s why I’m an artist.
Art has always been a way to process the chaos around me and find meaning in the struggle. Through my creations, I strive to capture the realities of existence, creating spaces where others can find solace and strength. It is a way to reclaim our narratives, to tell our stories on our terms. To simply put it: Art is an essential tool of resistance. The fight for a better future is far from over.
We must continue to challenge structures that seek to divide and destroy us. Standing in solidarity with those who are most vulnerable, amplifying their voices and advocating for our rights. The road ahead is uncertain, but it is paved with the courage and determination of those who refuse to be silenced.
In the face of such adversity, we must find ways to support one another, to build communities in care and resistance. With an uncertain future, there is still possibility. The upcoming election is a pivotal moment, one that will continue to shape the trajectory of our society for years to come. It is a time for us to come together, to fight for the rights and freedoms that are under threat. We must remain vigilant, demanding a just and equitable future for all. Continuing mutual aid, standing behind grassroots organizations, supporting our community efforts is necessary now more than ever. As Civil Rights activist Ella Baker once said, “Give light and the people will find their way.” Our light will guide us through this darkness. And while we find our way, we must continue to challenge the structures that seek to divide and destroy us. These are the choices we make.
Dedication
A special thanks to my community of loved ones—I cherish your unwavering support and appreciate your care for my well being. I express gratitude to Mother Earth & Source, thank you for carrying me through this difficult but beautiful life. And thank you to About Place Journal & the Black Earth Institute for being the first organization to publish this essay.
