Everyone protests nowadays when they're unhappy with something. Marches, parades, strikes...in some way or another, folks gather together to draw a line in the sand with a pointed finger. They want to be heard. Some last for days, weeks, months even. The problem is, these protests usually go on ignored until an element of violence is introduced and people get killed. The ironic part is these protests are usually in the name of freedom to live peacefully. But what's the peace in that?
Another problem with protests is they can be quite isolating. It presents an "us vs. them" dynamic. But many people may not identify with either side of the cause, or they can relate with both. Perhaps that's why many protests are lead by students who often have a more black and white perspective. I know I sure did when I was in college. Protests don't really create unity (the most important element of peace) unless you're on the same side.
When I lived in Spain for four years, there was a protest going on nearly every week. In the beginning, while Zapatero of the Socialist Party was in office, folks rallied against all the things he did wrong as president. It was his fault for nearly everything. The elections drew near like a light at the end of the tunnel and everyone came out to vote against him. So, in came the new president Rajoy, from the Popular Party on the other side of the political spectrum. But the rallies kept going, it's like the people ran home and covered Zapatero's name with white-out and wrote 'Rajoy' over it. Sometimes I think some people protest just to hear themselves.
Thing is, I just don't think protests really beckon the change that the people are asking for. While their intentions might be good, it definitely doesn't promote peace, especially when it escalates to violence. And if violence leads to change, the initial problem that protest was against will rear its ugly head in a different shape and continue, sometimes in a worse manner than the original.
So what do you do if you're unhappy with the cruel injustice of the way things are and want them to change? Here's an idea. Take the passion you have for the cause and produce something. You could start a band and write some songs. The metaphor in art is the most underrated weapon, as it can allow people from all sides to relate through the basis of interpretation. With all the modern technology we have, there is more opportunity to collaborate with others and produce art of various media. Art can penetrate people's souls in a more powerful way than a gunshot wound. Why do you think advertisers use it? You want more people to believe in your cause, then get their attention. Coerce them with your sound, provoke and energize them with the choices of your hues, and make a message that actually resonates. And if it doesn't provide you with the change you were looking for, remember that the most significant changes don't occur overnight and at least you still have a chance to make history by documenting your experience. People still listen to Songs of Freedom and the Clash. It's because these songs from the past are timeless, and some are painstakingly simple. Human beings generally want the same things in life, regardless of principle or attitude. It requires a little imagination and a lot of work and patience to create something all can identify with and not just the people on your side of the line.
Perhaps this is all hippie bullshit to you. But let me ask you this-- do you feel inspired when you turn on the radio nowadays? Don't you think there's a little bit of room in the modern airwave for a breath of fresh air?
I sing and play the skin flute. Hit me up if you wanna start a band.
Another problem with protests is they can be quite isolating. It presents an "us vs. them" dynamic. But many people may not identify with either side of the cause, or they can relate with both. Perhaps that's why many protests are lead by students who often have a more black and white perspective. I know I sure did when I was in college. Protests don't really create unity (the most important element of peace) unless you're on the same side.
When I lived in Spain for four years, there was a protest going on nearly every week. In the beginning, while Zapatero of the Socialist Party was in office, folks rallied against all the things he did wrong as president. It was his fault for nearly everything. The elections drew near like a light at the end of the tunnel and everyone came out to vote against him. So, in came the new president Rajoy, from the Popular Party on the other side of the political spectrum. But the rallies kept going, it's like the people ran home and covered Zapatero's name with white-out and wrote 'Rajoy' over it. Sometimes I think some people protest just to hear themselves.
Thing is, I just don't think protests really beckon the change that the people are asking for. While their intentions might be good, it definitely doesn't promote peace, especially when it escalates to violence. And if violence leads to change, the initial problem that protest was against will rear its ugly head in a different shape and continue, sometimes in a worse manner than the original.
So what do you do if you're unhappy with the cruel injustice of the way things are and want them to change? Here's an idea. Take the passion you have for the cause and produce something. You could start a band and write some songs. The metaphor in art is the most underrated weapon, as it can allow people from all sides to relate through the basis of interpretation. With all the modern technology we have, there is more opportunity to collaborate with others and produce art of various media. Art can penetrate people's souls in a more powerful way than a gunshot wound. Why do you think advertisers use it? You want more people to believe in your cause, then get their attention. Coerce them with your sound, provoke and energize them with the choices of your hues, and make a message that actually resonates. And if it doesn't provide you with the change you were looking for, remember that the most significant changes don't occur overnight and at least you still have a chance to make history by documenting your experience. People still listen to Songs of Freedom and the Clash. It's because these songs from the past are timeless, and some are painstakingly simple. Human beings generally want the same things in life, regardless of principle or attitude. It requires a little imagination and a lot of work and patience to create something all can identify with and not just the people on your side of the line.
Perhaps this is all hippie bullshit to you. But let me ask you this-- do you feel inspired when you turn on the radio nowadays? Don't you think there's a little bit of room in the modern airwave for a breath of fresh air?
I sing and play the skin flute. Hit me up if you wanna start a band.
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