Tell me What has Changed?

Summary

The web content is a poignant reflection on the persistence of systemic racism and oppression in society, despite superficial changes, using a poem inspired by Marla Bishop's IdeaStream.

Abstract

The provided text presents a powerful poem that questions the perceived changes in society regarding racial equality and justice. It highlights the ongoing struggles of marginalized communities, particularly African Americans, against the backdrop of historical and contemporary forms of oppression. The poem suggests that despite the passage of time and the efforts of the founding fathers to secure life and liberty, the realities of political oppression, systemic racism, and mass incarceration remain largely unchanged. The author, Marilyn Flower, challenges the reader to recognize the continuity of these issues, which are veiled by the illusion of progress and choice in the political and judicial systems. The piece is a call to acknowledge the enduring impact of white supremacy and the need for genuine transformation in society.

Opinions

The author implies that the changes in society regarding racial equality are superficial and that the core issues of oppression and enslavement persist.
There is a critical view of the political system, which is seen as offering no real choice to the electorate, particularly to those from marginalized communities.
The poem conveys a sense of frustration and disillusionment with the pace and extent of social change, suggesting that the same injustices continue under different guises.
The author points out the harsh reality of the prison system, which is depicted as a likely destination for young individuals from certain racial backgrounds.
The text suggests that the ideology of white supremacy is still deeply ingrained in society, as evidenced by ongoing acts of violence and systemic discrimination.
The inspiration from Marla Bishop's IdeaStream indicates the author's alignment with ongoing discussions and activism against racist killings and systemic injustice.

Cuz it sure looks the same to me.

Tell me what has changed?

The ghosts of history walk in chains, as the founding fathers pursue life and liberty to the sounds of the cracks of the lashing whips on our backs, tell me what has changed?

What has changed when political oppression by any other name still smells the same — burning flesh, hanging trees, shot by guns, suffocated by knees, all in the name of white supremacy?

Make that enslavement idiotology, when the voting choice is Tweedle Dum or Tweetle Dee, and the prison system is held out to me as where I’ll probably be before i reach the age of 23.

Tell me, unless your mind has been rearranged, what the hell has changed?

Poetry Salvage

Use these ten words to write a poem. Or prose if you prefer.

life

history

oppression

enslavement

politics

change

ideology

voting

choice

prison system

This poem was inspired by Marla Bishop’s IdeaStream, Fighting for Our Lives:

Marilyn Flower writes political humor and satire to delight socially and spiritually conscious folks. She’s a regular columnist for the prison newsletter, Freedom Anywhere, where she writes about faith and prayer. Five of her short plays have been produced in San Francisco. Clowning and improvisation strengthen her resolve during these crazy times.

Tell me What has Changed?

Cuz it sure looks the same to me.

Poetry Salvage

Fighting for Our Lives

The struggle goes on until racist killings end