24.1.17

condescencion + opportunity


As we continue forward, we must remember what we already have in terms of privilege and where we stand in society, in comparison with our fellow citizens of the world.
This is not the French Revolution. Effective protest does not require anyone having their head cut off. But it does require recognizing that this zero-arrest protest wasn’t something a largely white and female crowd earned. It was given to us, whether we asked for it our not, because of our frailty. Because we are something to be protected, not a serious threat. Because our safety has been the engine of our oppression and the oppression of others. We owe it to ourselves, and to those others, to use this gift wisely. If the police stay their hand with you, white women, it is not a compliment. It is condescension. But it is also an opportunity. How will you use it?
 - Jess Zimmerman remarking on the Women's March, January 20, 2017