Key Takeaways:
- The fifth anniversary of George Floyd’s murder has gone by quietly, suggesting a rollback of progressive gains.
- Many Americans may prefer the status quo over equity and justice.
- The political left faces disadvantages due to systemic white power and public indifference to justice.
- Progressive movements, like the Tesla takedown protests, show some success but also face criticism for inconsistency.
- Bernie Sanders may be passing the torch to younger leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
- White working-class backlash and failure to address masculinity contribute to progressive struggles.
- Public protests face cynicism, and the backlash against George Floyd protests continues.
- Accountability for MAGA leaders is crucial for moving forward.
The George Floyd Anniversary: A Quiet Reminder of Lost Momentum
May 25, 2023, marked five years since George Floyd’s tragic murder. His death sparked global protests, reigniting calls for racial justice and police reform. Yet, this year’s anniversary felt eerily quiet. Why? Many believe the progress made in his name has been rolled back. Progressive policies and social justice movements have lost steam, and the voice of marginalized communities is fading.
The rollback of equity and inclusion efforts is no accident. It reflects a broader shift in American sentiment. Many voters seem to prefer the familiar status quo over the uncomfortable push for justice. The 2022 elections, often blamed on inflation, were likely influenced by a backlash against progressive ideals. For some, the idea of Black and brown people, as well as women, gaining power is scarier than economic hardship.
The Left’s Struggles: What’s Going Right and Wrong?
Noah Berlatsky, publisher of the newsletter Everything Is Horrible, offers insights into the state of the left. He points out that while some progressive efforts, like the Tesla takedown protests, have been successful, others have fallen short. For instance, some on the left have oddly supported Elon Musk’s harmful policies, like gutting the US Agency for International Development, which could kill millions.
Berlatsky praises leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) for rallying support and capitalizing on the radicalization of the right. However, he criticizes the left’s inconsistent stance on issues like foreign policy and its failure to oppose fascism effectively. The left’s strength lies in its ability to fight, but internal divisions and missteps weaken its impact.
Bernie Sanders: Past or Future of Progressivism?
At 83, Bernie Sanders is still active but unlikely to lead the next generation of progressives. The torch seems to be passing to younger leaders like AOC. Sanders’ rallies with AOC signal this transition, blending his legacy with fresh energy.
Why Do Progressives Overlook Bigotry in the White Working Class?
Berlatsky observes that society’s deep-seated racism influences even progressives. Many romanticize the white working class as authentic Americans, ignoring their role in upholding systemic inequality. This blind spot leads some progressives to give the white working class endless benefit of the doubt, even when they perpetuate bigotry.
The left must confront this reality. Marginalized communities suffer the most under oppressive systems, yet their voices are often ignored in favor of appealing to white voters.
The Left’s Silence on Masculinity
Another gap in progressive discourse is the failure to address masculinity effectively. While the right obsesses over toxic masculinity, the left rarely counteracts it. Berlatsky explains that discussions about men’s issues often focus on restoring patriarchal privileges rather than dismantling harmful systems.
For example, the “male loneliness epidemic” ignores the true victims of patriarchy, like incarcerated men and trans individuals. The left should advocate for policies like better healthcare and workplace safety to truly help all men, not just uphold patriarchal norms.
Backlash Against Protests: From George Floyd to Palestine
Public protests, a key tool for progressive change, now face cynicism and backlash. The George Floyd protests sparked hope but also a reaction from those who fear losing power. Similarly, pro-Palestinian protests are being silenced due to decades of bad faith and propaganda.
The right has exploited this fear, targeting activists and academics. While some, like Senator Dick Durbin, are starting to question unlimited aid to Israel, others, like Chuck Schumer, continue to support harmful policies. The situation remains bleak, but there are signs of growing awareness.
Liberal Resentment: A Hidden Story
Some wonder if liberals secretly want to see Trump voters suffer. While anger at MAGA leaders is understandable, M