If the system is the problem...
“Capitalism does not permit an even flow of economic resources. With this system, a small privileged few are rich beyond conscience, and almost all others are doomed to be poor at some level. That’s the way the system works. And since we know that the system will not change the rules, we are going to have to change the system.”
It is when the greats threaten(ed) to completely reconfigure the system(s) of oppression or adopt a new one altogether that our oppressors feel (felt) the pressures of revolution. And time and time again we have seen our great leaders and orators become silenced in some way. This has stopped me from sharing my insights/opinions publicly (on social media) about politics, politricks, and our nation’s governance more often than not. I didn’t want to put a larger target on my being than what already exists in this construct as a queer, Black woman. I refuse to be a martyr for white supremacy, racism, and all other iterations of oppression.
Yet, after the initial results of the most recent presidential election in amerikkka, I find myself unable to be quiet or reserved anymore. In the days following the election my spirit and stomach were twisted with disappointment, disgust, and disassociation.
The let down felt from the choice made by Brown people I thought were folks and Black men I admire and love deeply has been immeasurable. I am disgusted by the complete lack of respect for life that is a clear stance of 45, his peers, and the lieges of liggers that profit from the pain of their prey. I have begun to disassociate from all people, places, and things that oppose my freedom and degrade my divinity. If this political period in our nation has taught me nothing else, I have learned that all skinfolk aint kinfolk and all kinfolk aint skinfolk.
Many, no matter their nationality, status, or title, are oppressed people unable to conceptualize their freedom. Many feel stuck and unable to see beyond the rising costs to live and the declining quality of life. I empathize with this because I genuinely can’t imagine anything but freedom. It’s all I’ve ever known, even within the (imaginary) confines of this construct. I am grateful to have been born into a lineage of free folk who, no matter the generation, have understood that their freedom was their own and could only be taken by force or given away in an effort to survive and later reclaim.
Because of this and recent events, I am more committed to liberating myself and my loved ones (who want to be free) from the oppressive systems plaguing our nation and overall global society. Through my artistry and ministry, I will create the space(s) we need to be well and live free.
I believe if the system is the problem, then it is up to each of us to deconstruct ourselves to know ourselves and to recover, and restore our divine laws and natural order for self and collective governance. A new system (or systems) that prioritizes life and sustainability is the means necessary for all of us to be free. Because if the rights of Black folks, queer folks, and women and girls are threatened, the rights of everyone are threatened. No one is exempt from being collateral damage or shackled by the chains of oppression.
““When you hear me say “by any means necessary,” I mean exactly that. I believe in anything that is necessary to correct unjust conditions-political, economic, social, physical, anything that is necessary.””
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I create content and share my life experiences to inspire others to tap into their intrinsic power and turn their pain into purpose. As long as I am blessed to be alive, I will be a blessing to others.
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References, Resources, & Inspirations
In order of entry.
How Do I Deconstruct? by Debbie Butler
Still Rising: Famous Black Quotations for the Twenty-First Century by Janet Cheatham Bell
