Trump becoming the 45th president is not shocking; if you felt shocked, you are largely detached from the liberation movement. You don't acknowledge the daily oppressions of the marginalized. This is why I had ambiguous feelings about protesting in New York or D.C. These detached individuals were so ready to show up and show out for Donald Trump, yet are no where to be found for the daily groundwork that could prevent a Trump (or at least overtly hateful politician, because Trump reflects America) from being elected.
Where were these on fire anti-fascism protestors when there was a call to protest police brutality? Where were they for Baltimore? Ferguson? NDAPL? Flint? Housing rights? Immigration rights? For Sandra Bland? They all came out to show how much they oppose Trump, but Trump is manifested in all these issues effecting everyday America. These are the folks who were not being largely oppressed so America's suffering meant nothing to them. Once their luxury of turning a blind eye was no longer an option, because their well being is now compromised, they are enthusiastic and passionate about refuting Trump.
I just felt being out there surrounded by such great hypocrisy would put me in a position that was useless for the march. I was although delighted to see so many powerful organizers, primarily black women, who came out and showed out. They did what they always do because black women are always true to the movement. No matter what issue, black women stand up against it.
Plenty of folks in my networks planned to protest and I had options in how to engage. Although I decided not to go to any, I won't feel guilty about my decision. Today I was very high strung and anxious, and I realized it was because I was allowing myself to feel bad. However, that's so bogus! I didn't deserve to feel bad. I knew this action wouldn't be fruitful to me. Two days after Trump became president elect I marched to Trump Towers. I came across folks admitting their family members voted for Trump. I witnessed folks more excited out screaming "pussy" than raging out for the hate Trump embodies. I saw a white women put a stupid safety pin on her hat then pose for a camera that wasn't there. Worst of all, I saw a white woman thank a cop for their service. At that instance it was time to go. These are all proof that white women are clearly not connected with the movement and engage in mediocre of reductive manners. I just had to get up out of there.
Yes sir I'm not mad I wasn't at the Women's March; but if I went, I'd wish to hold up this sign. This sign that perfectly fleshes out what's troubling about the march for me:
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| Angela Peoples |
Angela Peoples made those white women acknowledge the truth. The majority of white women voted for Trump. White people have to organize their own. If they did there probably wouldn't be a Women's March this cold January day. Or if there was one it'd be a celebration for Hillary (although she is another conversation). It was draining just to think about being surrounded by all these problematic white women. I had to opt out. I was pretty anxious but luckily I spent great time talking and window shopping with a friend. I prayed protection over those I love who were out there. I remembered Trump isn't scary to me and that we will win.
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