Pretty Politico

SPARK A Movement !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Same S#$% Different Article

When I read this article this morning, I was annoyed to be reading yet another piece about the work young feminists aren't doing and why we're stultifying the movement. Unbeknownst to some, young and younger feminists are driven, active, and awesome. We deserve respect and partnership, not blame.

I intentionally deployed the word AWESOME in this blog post, because the author argues that our use of this so-called "teeny-bopper" term is problemmatic.

Sure, its fine to utilize big GRE words when appropriate, but we have more significant issues we need to focus on like reproductive justice, racism, inequality, and hegemony.

I don't understand why people who hold much of the power and privilege are drunk off the haterade when it comes to power-sharing and mobility for their sisters. We will never move forward if some of our own sisters focus on maintaining a strong-hold on the direction of the movement.

If I disagree with "my elders" about the terms and tools of engagement, it doesn't mean I don't respect them or want to "kill my mother". I love my mother for many reasons, including the fact that that my mom understands the importance of equality driven, inter-generational movement building.

I'm sick of the judgment some of our more seasoned sisters bestow upon younger feminists. Conversely, this same negativity holds less power than the love and support that comes from many of our older allies who understand that we're engaged, we're committed, and we're dedicated.

In the spirit of Gloria Steinem, it is important to "defend their right to be wrong" and move forward in solidarity with our sisters, even if we're not getting the love in return. I wonder if those who don't understand continue to write pieces like this in order to remain relevant and draw attention to themselves, rather than focusing their energies on empowering the women they criticize.

 

"Ooh Child, Things Are Gonna Get Easier"

Last night I hosted IPAS and Lisa Russell's film screening for the documentary Not Yet Rain. Zen Master Charlotte Joko Beck’s belief that “the opposite of injustice is not justice, but compassion” captures the true essence of what drives Lisa Russell and IPAS to dedicate their energy toward protecting women around the world from unsafe abortion. By providing a space for the women featured in their phenomenal documentary to raise their voices about the harmful effects of unsafe abortion in Ethiopia and the world, IPAS and Lisa promote healing and the elimination of suffering.

 

This film is their expression of the most profound compassion. I am grateful that they have connected these women to us, and all who see the film beyond this space awakening and rejuvenating the compassion within us, to drive us to stand up and call for change.

 

There is no where I would have rather been than there in communion with Lisa, IPAS, and the beautiful and vibrant group of people who share our vision for a better world that will allow women opportunities to determine their reproductive futures and gain access and comprehensive care for their families and themselves.

 

I felt more alive yesterday than I have in months. The beautiful 70 degree weather, the ability for me to promote reproductive justice at a meaningful event, and the fact that I enjoyed two concerts in one day might be the reason why. I realized that I know what makes me happy and I just need to figure out how to fill my life with those things I am passionate about more often. I have been soul searching and trying to determine exactly what life would look and feel like on my terms. I have a long way to go, but I feel empowered knowing that no specific job or task defines me. Working my passion is a huge goal. I have experienced it, and I realize what a rich gift that has been.

 

Now that I know what it looks like, its about making it happen and being at peace with the stepping stones along the way that will brin me closer to that end point. I am starting to appreciate that the education that I have received from experiences that push me away from my most authentic self  is valuable indeed. I hope to hold this awareness close and let it guide me through the struggles and the glory. One thing is certain, both are imminent. I'm ready to let the blessings in.

The Lion Sleeps

I am also heartbroken that Sen. Kennedy left his body and this world. I was blessed to experience his strong presence, vision, and passion first hand. In his memory, I will never give up! The lion's roar is being heard around the world. I hope it shakes us and wakes us up so we continue to fight. Our first battle to win is health care!

 

With Ted Kennedy and my friend Dresden at the Supreme Court in 2004.

"The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die."--Senator Ted Kennedy