Another take on the march.
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/4 ... the-nation
Donald Trump's name was barely mentioned on Saturday, a fact that must have painfully dented his eggshell ego, but all he represents was cast down and denounced just the same. Thanks to Mr. Trump and those who serve him, fascism and overt racism have become fashionable again. What took place in Washington this weekend was, among other things, a giant middle finger aimed directly at the white nationalism of the age. Here is a generation of young people reaching out to each other, and to us all, from the funeral shroud.
This largest generation in US history is coming into its voting rights day by passing day, a fact that should strike mortal fear into the hearts of those who enjoy things as they are. Bought-off fools with muddy wits are trying to shout down these new activists, to little effect, and those with a financial stake in the violent status quo are leaving visible puddles of desperation in their wake. For the first time in a very long time, the country is stoutly on the side of the protesters, and the protesters have no intention of letting the grass grow under their feet.
You can be for gun rights as well as support the sentiments of the students all filled with ideals of a more just and safe world. I said world, because this movement is of kids who don't yet differentiate between the US and other countries in their vision. I wouldn't dump on them even when they express their ignorance. They have not been injured enough to lose their verve and desires, are still not satisfied with merely surviving but want to live a life of meaning and purpose. Today they may be focused on school shootings and banning guns. Tomorrow they may be interested to tackle racism and end wars.
Most notable in my opinion is the lack of focus these students place on the shooter or even Turnip and what he represents. These kids are recognizing the insignificance of individuals who merely reflect the dysfunctional moment in time, are instead fixed on an ideal that they will manifest through their own hands.
If you are smart, you will work with them to teach and share your experiences. Bashing them, you will lose. Ceding their energy to the DNC and prohibitionists, you will lose. Doing nothing but complaining, the kids have more energy to mobilize and will quite simply outlive you.
But recognize that here in this moment you do have the opportunity to express your progressive ideals and bring them to fruition by recruiting the energy and drive of these student activists. What they want is the more fair, just world you always worked for. They just don't know that yet. You have to teach them.