Morning Comrades.
Whenever I sit down to write these dispatches I make a point to think of solutions rather than problems. I know, it would be that much more beneficial to the popularity of this project to continuously yell about all the bullshit that is taking place since any and all algorithms, that determine “reach” are skewed towards rage rather than hopes and strategies but that has never been the plan here. Simultaneously as I get older I no longer look for daily rage points to occupy myself with, after these 30 years of being angry with their world, I no longer find solace in pointing a finger in their bullshit. That’s not me shitting on anyone that does this or requires it, on the contrary, however, at this stage nothing that happens surprises me in the slightest. That’s not to say I am not angry about it, I am, I merely acknowledge the very small time and attention span I can ask of anyone reading this and thus figure this time here is better spent discussing what can & needs to be done.
Nevertheless, how can one not acknowledge the blatant murderous insanity Capitalism, as fronted by our Western governments, that is today. Again, I wasn’t surprised when the US vetoed the UN resolution to call for a ceasefire in Palestine but I was still pissed off about it. Part of that comes from whatever “civil” vastitude remains in me, my own indoctrination of right and wrong hasn’t been entirely dismantled and replaced my dialectical materialism and the young Steven, who did a 3 month work experience at the UN back in the 90s, still, for whatever illogical reason, believes that the UN, as an idea, is good. Logic determines otherwise and here we are.
The question I asked myself this morning was then what I could potentially offer you other than more rage & resignation, a state of being they quite clearly are betting on for us to remain catatonic in the face of their crimes. It takes energy, yours and mine to not resign and let them have their way, I know that. Even now as I am writing this on my day off, alarm bells are ringing from every corner of my off-screen life, bills, to do lists, christmas presents I can’t afford - hell, I don’t need to list the mountains of bullshit each one of us faces every day, yet, the job is clear: in the face of the fuckening we do not cower and with that, what remains to be said, is that it is what it is. Focus on what can be done, and not what seems impossible. Or as Marx said, “Each according to their ability…” and so on. An important fact, or facts rather, to remind yourself daily of is that, for one, you aren’t alone in this and secondly, only together we can change their bullshit, other than some symbolic feel-IG-post nonsense of “organizing” this is actually what it is for, other than strength in numbers, knowing we are not alone is fuel for the work that needs to be done. With that, a few thoughts about the work that needs to be done from the weekend, so that we can leave this world better than we have found it. By all means, to expand on the earlier quote from Marx and take the later part to heart “…for each according to their needs”. The revolution isn’t is a single act or task, it is a multi-faceted reality, a way to look at the world and act accordingly and not for one person to achieve, but for us all, together.
Toward Liberation
In the contemporary landscape of global capitalism, the call for resistance echoes through the works of modern Marxist thinkers. Embracing the dynamism of societal structures and acknowledging the interconnectedness of various struggles, a modern Marxist perspective underscores the necessity of a multi-faceted and intersectional approach to effective resistance against capitalism.
Class Struggle and Beyond:
While class struggle remains a foundational concept in Marxist thought, modern perspectives extend the analysis to include intersecting forms of oppression. Writers like Angela Davis argue that capitalism perpetuates and intersects with racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. Effective resistance, therefore, demands an inclusive framework that addresses the diverse manifestations of oppression inherent in capitalist systems.
Intersectionality as a Framework:
Kimberlé Crenshaw's concept of intersectionality provides a critical lens for understanding how various social categories, such as race, gender, and class, intersect and mutually reinforce each other. This framework is indispensable for recognizing the complex nature of capitalist exploitation.
A multi-faceted resistance, informed by intersectionality, acknowledges and confronts the intersecting axes of oppression, ensuring that the struggle against capitalism is inherently linked with struggles against racism, sexism, and other forms of inequality.
Cultural Hegemony and Ideological Struggle:
Contemporary Marxist thinkers, inspired by Antonio Gramsci, emphasize the role of cultural hegemony in sustaining capitalist structures. The cultural and ideological aspects of resistance are as crucial as economic and political dimensions.
Effective resistance requires challenging dominant narratives and fostering alternative cultural expressions that promote solidarity and challenge the capitalist ethos.
Global Solidarity:
Our actions, influenced by globalization and transnational capitalism, underscore the importance of global solidarity. Writers like Arundhati Roy argue for alliances that transcend borders and unite diverse struggles against capitalist exploitation.
An intersectional approach to resistance recognizes the interconnectedness of struggles worldwide, emphasizing the need for solidarity that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
Environmental Justice:
Addressing the ecological crisis is an integral part of contemporary Marxist discourse. A multi-faceted resistance must incorporate environmental justice, recognizing the interdependence of ecological sustainability and social justice in the fight against capitalist exploitation.
In the pursuit of liberation from capitalist oppression, a modern Marxist perspective advocates for a multi-faceted and intersectional approach. By embracing diversity, acknowledging intersecting forms of oppression, challenging cultural hegemony, fostering global solidarity, and addressing environmental justice, effective resistance emerges as a dynamic force capable of dismantling the multifaceted structures of capitalism. Through these strategies, our vision guides us toward a vision of resistance that is inclusive, nuanced, and poised to create a more just and equitable world.
Each according to their ability for each according to their needs.
We serve the revolution.
Yours,
V
How do we act in the face of all this. I have voted in every US election since I was 18 and always voted democratic but never for someone who truly espoused my beliefs.
I cannot see myself voting for Biden again yet is that not a vote for Trump some other Republican.