Boyle McCauley News

Since 1979 • April-May 2024 • Circulation 5000

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For the Freedom Fighters

We must acknowledge those who stand for social justice.

As we journey down our path of existence, there come moments where we are uplifted and enveloped with a feeling of grace and “freedom.” It might be when we are on a walk in nature, or visiting a special place. This feeling is often fleeting, and as we return to our duties and civic responsibilities, the feeling lingers and eventually fades into the mundane routine of societal obligation. Despite this, we can seek the feeling again, and find new ways to capture that feeling for a time. This makes it a great goal to have, however endless like a dog chasing its tail.

Is the feeling of “freedom” misleading? Because, true freedom would have no end, and true freedom would grant us everlasting peace – would it not?

My take on freedom is that we can associate feelings to the word, but true freedom is beyond our emotions because freedom is often determined by physical space. The word “utopian” may come to your mind and, somehow, we associate this word with dreamers and rebels. But, if we look at the world and the structures which restrict freedom or enslave us, whether through dependency on oil, sugar, streaming media, or other things, we may very well be our own captors.

If there is freedom granted to only those who hold the power and money, then is it really freedom? And can the people and the planet under the rule and weight of imperial and capitalistic regimes, in the end, even have freedom of breath and life?

This is why we need to acknowledge those who stand up against the systems and oppressors. To the First Nations people who are tirelessly working to preserve and rebuild the ways of their people, to the workers who dedicate their lives to helping those less fortunate, to those who have never had the means or supports to get beyond the claws of poverty, to the advocates and activists who put their lives on the line, to the individuals who know and see the imbalance and try to do something about it, to the single parents; to the young people in foster programs and systems, to those who speak out, to those who listen – thank you for the fight. You are proof that there is hope.

“Righteousness will someday prevail… “ – Bob Marley

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