With all that’s going on in the world right now, it’s easy to forget that creativity and art are more than a diversion from existential dread. They are an act of protest.
That’s both good news and bad news. It’s bad because it highlights the true intentions behind defunding the arts, but it also means that no matter how exhausted you’re feeling, you can play some part in standing up for what you believe in.
Protest can be as simple as opening a book, listening to music, dancing, supporting a local theater company, watching a movie or show (without scrolling on your phone), going to the library, writing a poem, or creating whatever art you’re called to create.
Yes, protest can be anger at injustice and outrage at cruelty, but it can also be about finding joy in the possibilities. It can be hope for a better tomorrow.
If you’re looking to protest and maybe become better informed at the same time, I highly recommend checking out “Who is Government?”, a group of essays on the roles and stories of actual U.S. government workers.
Be Kind. Be Brave. Stay Awkward.
Onward & Awkward 