"We are all responsible for equality"

[BainsBane]

Last edited Fri May 16, 2014, 02:33 PM - Edit history (1)

A simple but powerful statement from an artist and LGBT activist. http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=4961698

Her words, I believe, extend to all forms of discrimination and equality. Rather than arguing about terminology, perhaps we might think of it as this: What can I do to further equality (race, gender, sexuality, etc. ..)? What can I do to make sure I don't worsen inequality? How can I listen to members of historically and currently oppressed groups to understand the ways in which discrimination affects their lives and try to make sure I'm not part of the problem?

[tk2kewl]

1. "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere"

nt

[SamKnause]

2. I accept no responsibility for inequality.

I have no control over wages in this country.

I have no control over greed and corruption in our government.

I share whatever I have when anyone is in need.

When I was employed I bought groceries for people in need, I gave a car to a coworker, I sent money to my mother and father, and I drove people to the grocery store and church.

I am not responsible for racism. I speak up at every opportunity.

I am not responsible for the way homosexuals are treated. I speak up and try to educate everyone when the subject comes up.

P.S. I am no longer employed. I am now disabled and on food stamps. I have even bought food with my food stamps and given it to the needy.

The elites are responsible for inequality. The CEO's are responsible for inequality. The fringe religious groups are responsible for the attacks against homosexuals, the United States government is responsible for allowing corporations to control our government.

[AverageJoe90]

4. This. Times *infinity*.

I am not responsible for racism, either. Or sexism. Or corruption. Et cetera. And neither is anyone else who doesn't contribute to the problem.

I am not responsible for wrongs that I did not commit. But I, too, do choose to help make the world a better place when and how I am able.

[BainsBane]

7. You are responsible for your own actions

no one else.

[AverageJoe90]

9. Yes, that's true.

Don't recall implying otherwise, though.

[BainsBane]

10. . . .

9. Yes, that's true.

Don't recall implying otherwise, though.

[AverageJoe90]

11. Um.....is there a problem? nt

[BainsBane]

13. No, just trying to provide the response you want

repeating your own words to you.

11. Um.....is there a problem? nt

[BainsBane]

6. my quote was in error: should have read responsibility for EQUALITY

We are all responsible in that the ways in behave in society determine if we promote equality.
If we don't, if we decide the lives and experiences of the majority of the population, people of color, women, LGBT Americans, etc...
aren't important enough to concern ourselves with, then we promote inequality.

Sorry for the typo. It was rather a serious one.

[SamKnause]

8. Apology not needed.

We all make mistakes.

Hope you and yours have a pleasant and safe weekend.

P.S. I appreciate the correction.

[GeorgeGist]

3. You changed the quote ...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10024961698#post2

[BainsBane]

5. thanks

That mistake about messed up the whole thread.

[AverageJoe90]

12. It happens. The important thing is, you corrected the error when you realized that it had been made.

So no harm done.

[BainsBane]

14. Trying again

minus my major error that totally turned around my meaning.