While
scrolling through the variety of poster options to write for this blog, I was visually attracted to the vibrant colors of this superhero’s costume. Likewise, the aesthetic and placement of the well-known quote
by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. evoked an immediate admiration for the poster. I recognized the designer's ingenious placing "darkness cannot drive out darkness" in the black portion of the poster and their decision to make the portion that alludes love project in brighter colors.
This
poster and female superhero portrays the phrase “the struggle still continues” in a sense
that although there has been a considerable number of steps taken to ensure the
progression of racial relations since Dr. King uttered those words on this
poster, there is still more work to be done. In retrospect, America as a nation
has a long way to go in regards to inclusiveness and viewing every individual irrespective
of their skin color, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation, as equal.
With
the recent election and inauguration of President Trump, it is no secret that
there has been an increase in racial tension in this country. Many African-Americans
alongside other minority groups and people of color have raised concerns and disapprobation
with the policies and moral views that Trump and his administration represents.
I
chose to write about this poster because I gathered the quote it included
was imperative given the recent frenzy and unrest of many groups of people
across the nation following the election of President Trump. Of the heap of startling things that have left this post-election commotion, what is especially discouraging is the grave sense that for many young people especially black ones such as myself, the determination to dream will be destroyed because of this idea that the marginalized have been, and always will be underestimated. I reckoned it was important
to remind everyone particularly during Black History Month that counteracting
hate speech with hate speech does not, and will never resolve the issue at hand. It is
important instead to educate people on the importance of being united in solidarity
to fight with and for those who are marginalized and unable to do so
themselves. One thing I can confidently say is that we - the marginalized - despite historically living in a repressive sphere have a past of survival and feat. In knowing this, I encourage those living in consternation, to dream and fight relentlessly, and to continue to promote and practice peaceful activism in all forms to a greater degree now than ever before. For the power is and always will be in the hands of the people. Lastly, to quote American political activist Yuri Kochiyama "Remember that consciousness is power, Tomorrow's world is yours to build."
