The past week has seen no shortage of political unrest and protesting. While the presidential election is the main focus, the North Dakota Access pipeline protest continues along with others. The most truly democratic people can appreciate people being vocal and caring.
That said, it is important to remember your space and role in these protests.
This may sound like a childhood Sunday school lesson, but often those who are the quietest have the most to say. If you are a person who normally dominates conversation, make sure to get out of the way at times.
While some people might just be shy, the issue goes much deeper than that. Defining “the quietest” has nothing to do with charisma or desire to speak — it can be much more systemic.
As we’ve said in previous editorials, oftentimes people who have been historically silenced are predisposed to not be comfortable speaking boldly in public.
Coupled with gender and racial biases, it leaves a good portion of ideas underrepresented — which is objectively harmful for the causes you are advocating for.
This is not an attempt to devalue anyone’s voice or perspective. By all means, speak your mind and challenge the issues that bother you most.
Listen to “Jane” by Girlpool if you want to hear a song about this.
