The more we fear debate, the more controlled, self-serving diplomacy administrators use to respond to ANY form of bigotry on a campus, in a school, a business, an organization, a health facility, a place of public service, in government, arts, media or armed forces, the easier it will get for the virus of racial hatred to replicate itself as everyone plays follow the leader. The rabid instigator spewing malicious, divisively false content and rumor, and the mealy mouthed cowardly witness choosing self-protective politically advantageous politeness over truth are tyranny’s twins. Righteous anger has its place; it does not equal violence, nor instability, nor deficit of character; it is simply a passionate and honest response to evil. A white President can spew racial hatred and get away with it, punished only in the courts of comedy. Black people who speak with courage, and righteous anger that is not even commensurate with the depth of the offense, are punished with defamation of character, economic censure, or worse. This isn’t new. This is one reason why I stopped pledging allegiance to the U.S. flag when I was twelve years old. I had a library card. I used it. I learned how to think. My deepest gratitude to all who speak with courage.
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Below is a previous post from my FB page, August 30th, 2o15
Beloved Artist: We cannot subvert the dominant paradigm without subverting the dominant parasite. A small way to start: Next time someone says they want to "pick your brain" listen for the intention. If you are going to be mined for your ideas which others will activate for their own personal monetary gain, let them know your hourly consultation rate up front. If you are an artist and are asked to perform/speak/facilitate/consult and the venue doesn't ask your fee by the second conversation, make sure you make it clear what your fee will be. Do not be intimidated, do not back down. Dentists and plumbers get paid, as should artists. Ask for your legitimate market worth. Do Pro Bono work, by all means when there is a legitimate need. Do it with intention, but NEVER by default. Do it with love and generosity, not the fear of retaliation. The word "No" is as important as "Yes". Do not be exploited or manipulated. If money is not available, a reciprocal arrangement is always a possibility. Find the win-win with love and respect. I post this for the young stranger I met in a coffee shop in the middle of nowhere. If you looked me up, you know who you are and you know how to reach me. I offer you two free hours of consultation on how to interrupt exploitation in your life, not just once, but for always. I offer you this in memory of Fred Ho. |
AuthorI've been called a provocateur-always by people I respect. It has been meant as an affirmation and compliment, and that is how I receive it. To be provocative is a necessary component in the creation of art. If not to move people, then what? I don't create to be liked, I create to provoke thought, to evoke visceral response and ultimately to inspire positive action for social change. Archives
February 2019
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