Damn, humans, we're so hard on each other.
I write this in the wake of the deadly shootings that took place in Atlanta. Once again, we find ourselves witness to horrific violence and the choice to either continue our day, noting it as just another item in the news cycle, or to pause and consider just what ails our culture that these events continue to occur.
The motive of the shooter remains up for debate, but it regardless highlights that an uptick in violence against Asian Americans has continued, rooted in the soil of the white supremacy of the United States and emboldened by the behavior of our former president, by those who support him, and by the dangerous political movement of which those reckless personalities are only a piece. It reminds us that violence and hatred based on the construct of race continues, even after elections or when it's out of the headlines and our feeds. It reminds us that a culture invested in violence is bound for destruction.
I point these out not to despair or preach (I know, I know, "I came here for the music, Justin") but to remind us (myself included) that the work continues. Progress was made in the summer following George Floyd's death, but we've not done enough to kick back and relax just yet. And, frankly, if you don't like my soapbox, I'm sure you can find music elsewhere. I'll stop talking about it when the problem has ceased.
So, yes, take some time. Listen to great music. Take a walk in the woods. Refill your tank. But do not remain silent or inactive.
Damn, humans, we're so hard on each other. Let's work on that.
WQPM playlists are a collection of ten songs I've been listening to this week, crossing genre, era, and taste. No themes here, just the tunes I've been sticking in my ears lately. The newest Weekly Quick Pick Mix is available on Spotify and Apple Music.
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