As I am doing some work on my thesis, I took a peek at the cover of one of my books. There is a woman who is obviously poor, and rather sad looking, holding up a sign that says "justice."
it just reminds me of all the times people have mocked the work I do/have done. I worked at a local natural foods store because I liked their social and environmental practices - and it was just a big joke to everyone. My undergrad degree (women's studies)...also a big joke. My thesis...why would you do a thesis that deals with theories of social justice? The trip I am doing for research for said thesis. Apparently I'm going to be just marching around holding up a sign and BAM there is my research.
I was involved with a women's centre for a while, as well as a Palestianian solidarity group (briefly)...apparently, again, I'm going to be seen on the news as one of those angry protestors holding up a sign and getting pepper sprayed by the cops.
A) How condescending, to assume that all I do is just hold up a sign and complain all day. It's actually a great deal more effing complex than that. protest is generally not the most effective means of combatting social injustice, but nevermind that.
B) forgive me for actually giving a crap about what happens in this world. Forgive me for trying to make choices that seem more socially and environmentally responsible. Forgive me for thinking about groups that are outside myself. Forgive me for perhaps being optimistic enough to assume that we can make this world a better place. It isn't easy, and it becomes ever more complex as I work through the various theories/approaches to achieving long-lasting social justice, but meh.
Yes, I realize that at the moment I am sitting at a computer hacking out a thesis rather than actually doing something with immediate results. But it's to get qualifications to be in a position where I can help influence bigger decisions, and the education is to inform me on how I can do that in the best way possible. In a way that doesn't just benefit myself and people like me.
When people think trying to achieve social justice is just holding up a sign and getting your angry face all over the news, I ACTUALLY WANT TO GET MY ANGRY FACE ALL OVER THE NEWS WHEN I BEAT YOU TO DEATH WITH A BOOK.
Lol. *dies* OK, work time.
