This is from an older piece which appeared in the Mexican daily La Jornada at least a couple of years ago (ah-duh, 2008)...but, the final paragraph is as timely as ever as we struggle to transform our slacktivism into real expressions of solidarity.
Canonical Text:
Translation:
Now, more than ever, it is an obligation to listen to the voice of those who in their resistance incorporate new forms of action and thought based on the principles of dignity, justice, democracy, without renouncing their identity. The only manner we can build a project where sovereignty and independence meet in the fight against capitalist exploitation (sic).
Why does this still resonate? Well, we've seen Iran, Honduras, the fight for DREAM act, and, now, the struggle of the Egyptians, become trending topics and, maybe a quick pause is in order for us to reflect if, and how, we are making sure that the voices of those directly impacted are central in the struggles we support...or purport to support. If it's not the voice of the person impacted, whose voice are we listening to? What's the legitimacy of that voice? Does legitimacy come with a credential or experience? Once we hear those voices, maybe we'll remember that a retweet or facebook like might make us feel good and raise awareness for 16 seconds while true struggle against injustice is long-term if not eternal.
Original article, in spanish:
Back to bar study....
