6 days Ago
Denial can show up as silence. It can also show up in words that mask reality. “Post-pandemic,” “conflict” or even the phrase “climate change” are all being used to hide or cloud understanding.
Using the term “post” conveys that the pandemic is over. But around 4,000 Americans continue to die every month, and millions are becoming disabled from Long COVID. Using the word “conflict” provokes the idea that there exists a symmetry of power between the two sides, while simultaneously understating the level of violence.
When we use the word “conflict” to describe what’s happening in Palestine, instead of genocidal acts, we are in a profound state of denial that is desperate to ignore facts. Like the fact that over 16,500 children have been killed by Israel with United States money and weapons. The phrase “climate change” creates the impression that it’s some kind of natural process.
But there is nothing natural about climate change. One of the leading causes is corporations including the fossil fuel industry. People are also reading.
.. Language shapes our sense of reality.
Misinformation, semantic sleight of hand or outright censorship are all used to distort our perceptions. Whether it is the ongoing pandemic, genocidal acts committed against Palestinians or the destruction of our planet, the first step towards justice is using accurate words to describe what is happening to all of us. We must face reality with courage and clarity, no matter how devastating it may be.
As Audre Lorde said, “Your silence will not protect you.” Kelly Seacrest, Lincoln Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!.
