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Words. As a writer, words are very important to me. I try to be precise in the words I use to make sure they convey what I am trying to communicate.
It seems like over the last day or two, the theme of words has come up more than once. Celebrities being called out for their past or present words. Debates over the concept of "Defunding" the police. And the inflammatory words being used by our local, state, and national leaders to evoke gut-level reactions.
On the issue of the phrase "Defund the Police". I can see both sides of the debate. First of all I totally understand and support the concept. The money taken from police department budgets should be reallocated to professionals like mental health experts, education, healthcare etc. And police officers should be pulled from doing things for which they are are not properly trained.
So, this is a concept I think many Americans would support, but if they hear "Defund the Police" they will be turned off. I get that. But, at the same time, I understand why certain activists and group chose that language. Many of them have been fighting this battle for years without widespread public support - being ignored or not heard. So, "Defund the Police" gets heard and it opens dialogue. But, how do we get the average voter to push back their initial reaction to the phrase? I don't know.
To be honest, it bothers me that we have to work so hard to convince the average voter that we are better than a fascists government that violently attacks the free press, uses tear gas on peaceful protesters, support violent attacks on elderly citizens. "Well, those things are terrible, but you said 'Defund the police', and we couldn't be bothered to look into what that means, so we are going to support the fascists rather than you."
I get it - but I am frustrated. So, how should be explain "Defunding the Police" in a soundbite culture?
Here is another point - semi-related, how does the campaign to defeat President Trump defer from the Black Lives Matter protests and movement? Where do they separate? Here is what I mean. As a white American, I do not feel it is my place to tell my Black brothers and sisters how to protest or what words to use or not use. But, as someone who is working to remove the cancerous tumor from this country, I feel I have an obligation to weigh in on tactics and language of that message. In this moment, the two movements are linked. But, I think there is a separation.
I don't know. I just needed to vent some words. Words. Words. And I am not sure I said what I meant to say. I truly hope there are no words in my past that I would regret if they were brought to light. But as someone who writes a lot of words it is hard to say. I know my own heart but would everyone who reads my words understand the thoughts behind the words.
Many of us are evolving day by day, but we are still responsible for the words and actions of our less evolved selves.
Words, words, words...
Our Featured Friday Recap continues with songs #12-16 (tomorrow songs #17-21)
12. "Runnin'" by Wayne Graham, The Green Apple Sea
Wayne Graham is a band a band from Kentucky formed by two brother - neither named Wayne Graham or Wayne or Graham. Kenny and Hayden Miles to be precise. My fellow music lover and friend Crystal Rhoten kept talking about them, and I finally got to see them live last year, and I finally understood. I am a fan.13. "Gravity" by Sammy Brue
Utah based singer-songwriter Sammy Brue's new album Crash Test Kid will be released this Friday. This week, we have the final single released ahead of the album. I am so excited about this album. As I have alluded to before, Brue is living up to the potential he showed at a very young age, and at this point, the "young" adjective is not really needed - not that he isn't young, but that he has matured as an artist.14. "Run to You" by Julia Anrather
Next, we have a new single from NYC indie pop singer/songwriter. Lush and emotive.15. "Dance Alone" by Darwin
Next up, we have the new single from California synth-based artist Darwin - who is the manager of David J (Bauhaus and Love and Rockets). Somewhat dark in tone, the song is nonetheless uplifting as only dark music can be.16. "Plasma Platter" by People Without Shoes, Inkswell
And today's recap closes out with a track from NYC hip-hop artists People Without Shoes - joined here by Australian producer Inkswell.
Featured Friday Playlist
