liberate your mind: thinking beyond american politics
a man who stands for nothing will fall for everything.
— M A L C O L M X
The more I read the work of Black revolutionaries, the more I’m drawn to visualizing liberation and freedom for all oppressed peoples.
This happens through collectivism and community building, rarely through power concentrated in the hands of a few.
Instead of stifling justifiable criticisms, ask yourself why you’re so quick to defend politicians and place them on pedestals.
Oftentimes, it’s got less to do with wanting the current administration gone and more about confronting privilege and for some, internalized oppression.
We critique and hold politicians accountable because they are not, and have never been, saviors.
To put them in that position is an example of internalized oppression.
It’s people-power that works, never individualism.
Malcolm X spoke about being “politically mature” — recognizing when politicians sell out for individual gain, for a seat at the table amongst individuals whose policies are inherently anti-Black, who do not have the community’s best interests at heart.
Representation, unless paired with a commitment to improving material conditions, is merely symbolism without purpose — which helps create a sense of belonging in the theoretical sense, but does little to facilitate change that this country, and the world, needs more of.
Look beyond American politics and I promise you, you’ll find there’s so much more integrity in global solidarity.
You’ll be less likely to walk the middle ground because this forces you to wake up to realities outside your own and how American imperialism shapes them.
Because so much of my own ethos is grounded in spirituality, it’s even more rewarding to know Islam pushes for justice in the truest sense.
There is no middle ground where there is clear corruption — the test is choosing between silence or using your God-given voice to fight it.
I want there to come a day when abolition — freedom from oppressive regimes, systems and restricted imaginations — is not seen as a radical idea, but as one of humanity’s greatest weapons.
Because, as Cornel West puts it, justice is what love looks like in public.
Practice holding yourself accountable, as well as others where necessary.
Be critical and wary, wherever this moment may lead us.
And may it be a reimagined, rejuvenated, and enlightened future.