“America’s Selective Consciousness”
The current sociopolitical landscape of America makes for a dangerous terrain of existence. Bigoted and hateful rhetoric, continued racism, degradation of minority populations, harm and violence committed against marginalized communities, rising foreign unrest and subzero temperatures across the nation leaving thousands vulnerable and without shelter. This is not full summation of the issues and crises plaguing this nation, just merely a few. Nevertheless, the consciousness of this nation must be pierced.
America was struck with the cord of concern and unrest as we witnessed the longest government shutdown in history, 35 days. Causing thousands to go without paychecks and uncertainty of survival for days. Leading churches and organizations to pool together resources to ensure those who’d normally possess income and resources did not go without, and it didn’t stop there. We, as a population, insisted on calling out the hypocrisy of this administration and their inability to relate to “everyday” Americans. And while the actions of citizens are to be commended I wonder, “does such only further point to the apathetic consciousness of America?” Because, where is the utter disgust and outreach for those who are homeless and without shelter or food during one of the brutal winters in America; and on the daily?
We know apathy to be defined as, “lack of feeling or emotion; lack of interest or concern.” While being “woke,” aware of and actively attentive to important facts and issues (especially issues of racial and social justice) - (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/woke), counters the state of disengagement or lack of concern. And we’ve witnessed this increasingly during the Trump administration as polarization has become or is the new norm. No longer is there a middle ground or segment of submission on tough issues, instead it’s the continuation of proving one’s point regardless of its moral positioning or complexity.
Abortion is a complex issue that stretches beyond morality and simplicity. It involves not only the child, it too involves the mother and further includes how said child was conceived, access to quality healthcare, resources post birth and the certainty that mother and child will be supported...and the list continues. Oft time affecting black and brown women who are at a disproportionate disadvantage than white women when it comes to accessing adequate care.
Many are pro-choice meaning: they do not advocate for abortion, but understand a woman has the right to control her body. Therefore, putting the choice in the hands of the mother. However, the other side is quick to proclaim “pro-life” and group said individuals as extremist. Yet, this is far from the truth and dismisses the reality of the situation. A reality that is often faced by those in crippling economic situations and uncertain of how they’ll survive in their predicament. They are not extremist or other destructive labels, instead said individuals are merely observing the totality of the situation and are concerned, just as much or more, as “pro-life” conservatives and others. Their concern is not just the livelihood of the child at birth, it extends to the assurance of life and opportunity for the child as it matures.
At some point pro-life must mean “pro-life” for all. It must extend beyond the fetus and be unapologetically inclusive of the totality of humanity. An individual’s economic status, educational attainment, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or preference, etc. doesn’t and shouldn’t define the essence of their being nor does it hinder God’s ability or purpose within them. There cannot be a limitation or selection of who’s life matters and who’s is disposable. Too long that has been America’s testimony. That lives deemed as abnormal and unrighteous are expendable and unworthy. However, if we are to be the God centered nation we proclaim such is not the essence of God nor God’s love. Yet, those who were hell bent on condemning and confronting New York’s abortion law have been eerily silent and deathly distant from condemning acts of hate toward LGBTQIA persons and continued racism towards minorities. Whether conservative, moderate, liberal, Christian, Jew, Muslim, none of the aforementioned or what have you - if one is to be conscious and active they must confront and denounce injustice in all facets.
Blatant and violent “isms” and “phobias” (i.e. homophobia) embodied and exuded by many, must be confronted and denounced. Masking it in the cliche, “I don’t agree with that” is in an excusable cop out for exercising bias and hate. And is an unacceptable state of apathy. This is not an area where timidity can continually abide as generations are left susceptible to the silence and inaction of their elders and peers.
May we stretch and challenge our consciousness and confront the misogyny, sexism, patriarchy and the more possessed [consciously and subconsciously]. Sure, stay true to your convictions, yet never abandon love, mercy and grace.