THE WALMART CHARGE

kkrkbimy February 20, 2025 No Comments

The Case Against Shopping at Walmart, Sam’s Club, Target, and McDonald’s: A DEI Perspective

I must admit, I have been vocal about my stance on certain retailers, encouraging people to reconsider where they spend their money. Specifically, I have advised against shopping at Walmart, Sam’s Club, Target, McDonald’s, and similar businesses that fail to support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

However, this is not about passing judgment. People I have spoken with are unfamiliar with what DEI truly means. While they may recognize the acronym, they often lack a clear understanding of its significance. For clarity:

Diversity refers to variety, ensuring different perspectives, backgrounds, and identities are represented.
Equity means fairness and impartiality, ensuring equal opportunities and resources for all.
Inclusion involves actively including and valuing all individuals, regardless of their differences.

Now that we have established what DEI represents, it is crucial to recognize that Walmart, Sam’s Club, Target, McDonald’s, and similar corporations do not align with these principles.

Walmart was one of the first major retailers to publicly declare that it would not mandate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within its organization. This decision signaled a shift in corporate priorities, suggesting that the company no longer saw the need to emphasize diverse hiring practices or the inclusion of equitable product lines. At the same time, Walmart was quick to raise prices in response to anticipated tariffs, leveraging economic uncertainty to maximize profits at the expense of consumers.

The elimination of DEI considerations within Walmart’s corporate structure has direct implications for both hiring practices and product selections, making them less reflective of the diverse communities the company serves. It raises questions about which product lines are removed from shelves and whether the company’s workforce will continue to reflect America’s demographic diversity. Notably, Sam’s Club, a subsidiary of Walmart, is following the same approach. shelves. https://apnews.com/article/walmart-dei-inclusion-diversity-34b06922e60e5116fe198696201ce4d9

Target, often compared to Walmart as a more “upscale” alternative, has also distanced itself from DEI commitments, further reinforcing a corporate trend that moves away from equitable treatment and inclusion. Reports indicate that Target locations have even relocated ethnic product lines to less visible areas of the store, diminishing their accessibility and signaling a shift away from prioritizing diverse consumer needs.

With Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Target all stepping back from DEI-driven hiring and product strategies, the message is clear: diversity and inclusion are no longer priorities in their corporate policies. The broader implications of these DEI choices undoubtedly reshape the retail landscape and redefine the role of major corporations in fostering inclusive business practices.

The Shift Toward Self-Checkout and Job Reduction

One growing concern is Walmart’s increasing reliance on self-checkout lanes. Across their locations, self-service cashier stations are replacing traditional cashier stations. significantly reducing the need for human employees. While automation is progress, the reality is that this shift comes at the expense of workers—many of whom rely on these jobs to support their families.

This raises an important question: Why are paying customers now expected to perform the work of cashiers; scanning, bagging, and processing their own purchases without any form of compensation or discount? Customers are providing free labor while Walmart maximizes profits by cutting payroll costs. Meanwhile, these savings are rarely, if ever, passed down to consumers in the form of lower prices.

For decades, retail jobs at companies like Walmart have served as steppingstones for young workers, supplemental income for families, and stable employment for many in working-class communities. Every self-checkout machine installed represents another lost opportunity for someone who may have depended on that paycheck to make ends meet. If this trend continues unchecked, the economic impact on local communities will only worsen.

Given this reality, it is more crucial than ever for individuals to explore entrepreneurial opportunities that foster financial independence. Whether through small businesses, service-based enterprises, or community-driven initiatives, reclaiming economic agency is a powerful way to push back against the corporate prioritization of profit over people. If major retailers are determined to reduce their workforce, then the best response may be to invest in businesses that truly support and uplift workers rather than replace them.

lacing traditional cashier stations. This raises an important question: Why are paying customers expected to do the work of cashiers; checking out and bagging their own groceries without compensation? While automation is an inevitable part of the future, Walmart’s approach prioritizes profit over people. Every self-checkout machine installed represents another lost job that has historically supported working class families. If this trend continues, it becomes even more critical for individuals to seek entrepreneurial opportunities to restore economic agency and financial independence.

McDonalds and the DEI Dilemma

McDonald’s, Ole Mickey Dee’s, seems to be on every other corner, particularly in underserved communities. Have you ever noticed how McDonald’s franchises are disproportionately located in lower income neighborhoods, especially in Black and Brown communities? This major corporation frequently sells and buys back franchises, maintaining tight control over their locations and operations.

As one of the largest employers in the country, McDonald’s hiring practices reveal dark trends. The company employs Spanish-speaking and Black workers, often requiring minimal English proficiency for entry level roles. Meanwhile, White employees tend to view McDonald’s as a temporary job, a steppingstone to pay off debts, get through school, or transition into other career opportunities. For many Black workers, however, McDonald’s often represents a long-term employer rather than just a short-term gig. While moving up the corporate ladder is technically possible, for most, it remains an improbability rather than a reality.

This raises an important question: How was DEI ever perceived as a threat to McDonald’s when their business model has thrived on employing minority workers? They have profited significantly from this labor structure, making their reluctance to fully embrace DEI even more troubling. So, is McDonald’s simply rejecting DEI in name while quietly relying on its principles to sustain its workforce? https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-diversity-dei-goals-845d94cd46511341a43e98e057b0fa8e

Seeking Alternatives and Supporting Black-Owned Businesses

Personally, I have never been an avid Walmart shopper, though I have occasionally visited their auto center for oil changes. This makes me wonder: Could Black owned auto service businesses step up to fill the gap left by disillusioned Walmart customers? A Black owned oil change business, for example, would offer a great alternative for those looking to reinvest their spending power into their own communities.

The same goes for McDonald’s. If we want to be intentional about where we spend our money, we should explore Black-owned burger joints and restaurants that reflect our values and actively support our communities. Making thoughtful choices about where we shop and eat can be a powerful step toward economic empowerment.

Final Thoughts

It is undeniable that anti-DEI efforts are unfolding before our eyes. While many of us may not have noticed these changes immediately, they have been in the works for quite a time.

As consumers, we have the power to decide where our money goes. Instead of supporting corporations that do not support us, we should be intentional about seeking businesses that align with our values. Whether through supporting local, Black-owned businesses or simply choosing retailers and restaurants that prioritize DEI, every dollar we spend is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in.

The question remains: Are we willing to change our shopping and dining habits to align with our principles?

Fwd:

•DEI BOYCOTT PLAN.

• THIS IS THE FIRST STEP.

• LET’S FOLLOW AL SHARPTON’S LEADERSHIP.

• HERE IS THE DEI BOYCOTT PLAN THAT HAS BEEN SENT OUT TO SHARE WITH ALL OF YOUR CONTACTS.

• THE 24 HOUR BLACKOUT HAS BEEN SCHEDULED AS THE FIRST OF MULTIPLE COUNTER MEASURES TO THE ATTACK ON DEI

OUR FIRST OFFICIAL ACT:

• As our first initial act, we “TURN IT OFF”.

• For one day we show them who really holds the power.

• WHEN:

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 28TH. from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM.

WHAT NOT TO DO:

• Do not make any purchases.

• Do not shop online, or in-store

• No Amazon

• No Walmart

• No Best Buy

Nowhere!

• No McDonalds

DO NOT SPEND MONEY ON FOOD:

• Fast Food

• Gas

• Major Retailers

• Do not use Credit or Debit Cards for non essential spending.

WHAT YOU CAN DO IF NECESSARY:

• Only buy essentials of absolutely necessary items such as

(Food, Medicine, Emergency Supplies)

•If you must spend, ONLY support small, local businesses.

SPREAD THE MESSAGE

• Talk about it.

• Post about it.

• Document your actions that day!

WHY THIS MATTERS!

• Corporations and banks only care about their bottom line.

• If we disrupt the economy for just ONE day, it sends a powerful message.

• If they don’t listen we make the next blackout longer.

• This is our first action.

• Our numbers are powerful.

• This is how we make history.

AGAIN,

• FEBRUARY 28TH.

• The 24 Hour Economic Black Out Begins.

WE MUST USE THE POWER WE DO HAVE AND SEND AN ECONOMIC MESSAGE WITH OUR NUMBERS AS DR. KING DID IN THE 60’S.

NOW SHARE THIS MESSAGE AS OUR FIRST OF MULTIPLE ACTIONS AND STAY TUNED FOR FUTURE ACTIONS.

There’s gotta be a way to reach many others !

We Must become unified

Categories: What's Under Your Wig? Tags: DEI, McDonalds, target, walmart

What is Your Favorite Serum? Exploring the World of Tinted Serums

kkrkbimy January 4, 2025 No Comments

Almost every cosmetic company today boasts a line of serums, targeting everything from skin hydration to nail health. With so many options available, the secret to choosing the right serum lies in understanding your specific needs. Whether it’s for brightening, anti-aging, or calming irritated skin, serums have become essential in modern skincare routines. I’m going to explore a niche but increasingly popular product: the tinted serum. If you’re unfamiliar with tinted serums or only vaguely aware of their existence, you’re in for an enlightening read.

The Evolution from Tinted Moisturizers to Tinted Serums

We’re all familiar with tinted moisturizers—those lightweight lotions that give a sheer hint of color while hydrating the skin. Tinted moisturizers have their merits. Still, they often have drawbacks. They can transfer onto clothes and have limited staying power. Enter tinted serums: a game-changer for those seeking a more lightweight, buildable, and long-lasting solution.

A serum, by nature, is lighter than a lotion or cream. It penetrates deeper into the skin, delivering active ingredients directly where they’re needed. Some serums are so light that it’s hard to imagine them offering any tangible benefits. Yet, innovation allows them to deliver results. Tinted serums combine the best of skincare and makeup, offering a subtle tint while nourishing the skin. One brand making waves in this space is Trinny London, with its standout product, the BFF Serum De-Stress.

What Makes Trinny London’s Tinted Serum Different?

So, what sets the Trinny London tinted serum apart from the myriad of other products on the market? The answer lies in its unique formula and cutting-edge technology. Unlike traditional tinted moisturizers or even other tinted serums, the BFF Serum De-Stress incorporates NP-TriOX technology. This proprietary blend is what makes the serum truly revolutionary.

We’re all familiar with hyaluronic acid. It is a popular ingredient in skincare. It is known for its ability to give instant hydration by attracting moisture to the skin. Nonetheless, the jewel of Trinny’s BFF Serum De-Stress is NP-TriOX technology. This combines five times the average active concentration of Neurophroline. Neurophroline is an extract derived from the seeds of the wild indigo plant native to India.

Benefits of NP-TriOX Technology:

Anti-Stress: Neurophroline helps reduce cortisol levels in the skin, combating the effects of stress-induced aging.
Anti-Aging: By targeting oxidative stress, it helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Calming: The serum soothes irritated and inflamed skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Detoxifying: It aids in clearing out impurities and promoting a healthier skin barrier.

A Shade for Every Skin Tone

One of the most impressive aspects of the BFF Serum De-Stress is its wide range of shades. With 29 shades available, there’s something for everyone. Whether you have fair, medium, or deep skin, you’re bound to find a match. Additionally, Trinny London encourages creativity. Users can mix and match shades to create a custom color that perfectly suits their complexion.

Finding the right tinted product has been challenging for many in the past. This level of flexibility is a welcome change. The ability to blend shades ensures a natural, seamless finish that enhances your skin rather than masking it.

The Application Experience

Applying the BFF Serum De-Stress is gratifying. Its creamy yet lightweight texture glides smoothly onto the skin, providing immediate hydration and a soft tint. Unlike heavier tinted moisturizers that can feel greasy or caked, this serum leaves a velvety finish that feels barely there. Despite its lightweight nature, it provides enough coverage to even out the skin tone. It blurs imperfections and leaves you with a radiant complexion.

After applying the serum, I noticed that only a small amount of product remained on my hands. This is a significant point, especially for those with darker skin tones where color residue can be more noticeable. The minimal residue means less transfer and a cleaner application process overall.

Additionally, this tinted serum doesn’t settle into fine lines, making it a great choice for mature skin. It’s lightweight and non-greasy. It provides a finish that appears effortless. It leaves you looking fresh and polished without feeling like you’re wearing layers of makeup.

Why Tinted Serums Are a Must-Have

Tinted serums represent a new frontier in the beauty world. By combining skincare and makeup, they offer a dual-purpose solution that saves time while delivering excellent results. Here are some reasons why a tinted serum like Trinny London’s BFF Serum De-Stress deserves a spot in your beauty routine:

Time-Saving: With a tinted serum, you can achieve a flawless, natural look in minutes. The lightweight formula blends effortlessly, eliminating the need for multiple layers of product.
Nourishing: Unlike traditional foundations that can sometimes clog pores or exacerbate dryness, tinted serums nourish the skin with active ingredients.

Final Thoughts: A Look Worth the Hype

In a world saturated with beauty products, finding something truly innovative can be challenging. Nonetheless, Trinny London’s BFF Serum De-Stress manages to stand out. It uniquely combines skincare benefits with customizable shades. Its lightweight texture makes it a must-try for anyone looking to simplify their routine without sacrificing results.

Have you ever struggled to find a tinted product that offers both coverage and care? This just be the answer. The smooth finish and non-greasy feel of this serum leave you with a polished look. Its time-saving nature appears effortless. It’s the look that seems to take time but doesn’t.

So, the next time you’re in the market for a serum, consider going beyond the usual hydrating or anti-aging options. A tinted serum is exactly what you need. It helps you achieve that coveted balance of skincare and makeup. You can do this in one simple step. And who knows? You just discover your new favorite product in the process.

Categories: Skin Care

“From Privilege to Power: Why Black and Brown Communities Must Stay Politically Engaged”

kkrkbimy November 30, 2024 No Comments

As a new commander-in-chief steps into the spotlight, it is imperative for Black and Brown communities to sharpen their focus on political developments, leadership dynamics, and the implications these changes bring to our daily lives. When prominent figures—often born into privilege—stand on stages and try to draw parallels between their gilded upbringings and the lived experiences of marginalized groups. Such attempts not only dismiss the structural inequities that persist but also highlight why we must stay vigilant in shaping our collective futures.

The Flawed Narrative of Privilege and Comparison

Recently, a prominent white figure with a history rooted in privilege tried to equate his upbringing with the challenges faced by Black children in America. Speaking before a Black audience, he suggested that resilience in the face of racism could be modeled after his own childhood—spent in the opulence of the Kennedy Compound, a symbol of wealth amassed through bootlegging in the 1920s and 1930s.

While this narrative might seem well-intentioned, it is an oversimplification that erases the deep-seated systemic barriers faced by Black and Brown communities. The story of “Nearest” Green, the first known African American master distiller and the man behind Jack Daniel’s whiskey, provides a stark contrast. Green’s contributions began under the shadow of slavery, yet his legacy was hidden for generations. The wealth and recognition he helped generate for others never benefited his family in the same way the Kennedy fortune uplifted their lineage.

This comparison is not just flawed—it is insulting. The experiences of Black and Brown communities cannot be reduced to lessons in bootstrapping from individuals whose privileges shielded them from systemic oppression. Instead of preaching resilience, such leaders should challenge the structures that perpetuate racism and inequality.

Why Racism Will Not End—But That’s Not the Point

It is no secret that racism is deeply ingrained in the fabric of America. From slavery to Jim Crow, redlining to mass incarceration, the systems of oppression have evolved but remain ever-present. Acknowledging this truth is not an admission of defeat but rather a call to action. Racism may never end, but we must refuse to tolerate it in silence. The responsibility lies not with us to “prove” our worth to the racist, but with society to hold racists accountable for their ignorance and bigotry.

When prominent leaders address Black audiences, they often focus on how we can rise above racism, as if the burden of change rests solely on our shoulders. Rarely do these same individuals turn to white audiences and demand that they confront their biases, educate themselves, and dismantle the systems that uphold racial inequality. This selective messaging reinforces the idea that Black and Brown people must endure the most societal change, a notion we must reject outright.

Retaliation: Redefining Resistance

To “retaliate” against racism does not mean adopting the tactics of our oppressors. Instead, it means asserting our dignity, demanding accountability, and actively working to dismantle systems of oppression. Here’s how Black and Brown communities can push back effectively:

Engage Politically
Political engagement is one of the most powerful tools we have. Whether it is voting, organizing, or running for office, we must ensure that our voices are heard, and our interests represented. Leadership transitions, such as the election of a new commander-in-chief, bring opportunities to push for policies that address systemic inequalities.
Educate Ourselves and Our Communities
Knowledge is power. Understanding our history, rights, and the mechanism of power equips us to challenge racist narratives and policies effectively. The story of “Nearest” Green is a prime example of how uncovering hidden histories can inspire and empower future generations.
Build Economic Power
Economic independence is a cornerstone of resistance. Supporting Black-owned businesses, advocating for equitable workplace practices, and building generational wealth can help reduce the economic disparities that racism seeks to maintain.
Hold Leaders Accountable
Leaders who stand before us and preach resilience must also be challenged to act. It is not enough for them to tell us how to cope with racism—they must commit to dismantling it. This includes addressing inequities in education, healthcare, housing, and the justice system.
Refuse to Normalize Racism
Micro aggressions, slurs, and other forms of everyday racism must be confronted head-on. We have the right to demand respect and to create spaces where our voices are heard and our humanity recognized.

Why Black and Brown Voices Matter Now More Than Ever

As the nation faces political and cultural shifts, the stakes are higher than ever for Black and Brown communities. The policies and decisions made by those in power have direct and lasting impacts on our lives, from education and healthcare to criminal justice and economic opportunity. Staying informed and involved is not optional, it is essential.

The influence of privilege and power, as exemplified by the Kennedy family, reminds us of the disparities that continue to shape American society. While their wealth and influence allowed them to shape their destinies, the legacy of “Nearest” Green serves as a reminder of the untold contributions of Black and Brown people, often erased or minimized in the broader narrative.

Moving Beyond Tolerance to Transformation

The call to tolerate racism is a demand for complacency. Instead, we must shift the burden back to those who perpetuate it. Tolerance is not the goal—transformation is. White America must learn to tolerate the dismantling of the systems that uphold their privilege and embrace the changes needed for true equality.

Our communities have endured centuries of systemic oppression, yet we continue to rise. Our resilience is not in question. What we need now is a collective commitment to action, a refusal to accept empty platitudes, and a determination to build a future where our children can thrive without having to navigate the obstacles of racism and inequality.

Conclusion: The Urgency of Now

The transition of leadership offers a pivotal moment for Black and Brown communities to reassess, strategize, and act. We cannot afford to be passive observers in a system that seeks to marginalize us. Instead, we must become active participants, challenging the status quo, and demanding the change we deserve.

The stories of privilege and power—like that of the Kennedy family—serve as a stark reminder of the disparities we face. But the legacy of “Nearest” Green shows us the strength and ingenuity that define our communities. By staying engaged, educated, and empowered, we can ensure that our voices shape the future, even in the face of adversity.

Categories: What's Under Your Wig? Tags: black empowerment, brown communities, community activism, economic disparities, historical erasure, kennedy family, leadership and accountability, nearest green, political awareness, political engagement, privilege vs oppression, racial justice, resilience and resistance, social inequality, systemic racism

Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser

kkrkbimy November 25, 2024 No Comments

Welcome to my beauty product testing and review blog, where honesty and transparency are the foundation of every post. With so many beauty products promising flawless skin, perfect hair, and transformative results, it’s hard to tell which are worth your time and money. That’s where I come in! My goal is to personally evaluate and review products, sharing real, unfiltered experiences to help you make confident, informed decisions.

As an everyday beauty enthusiast (with no brand sponsorships), I can guarantee that you’ll always get honest opinions. Whether a product works or fails, you’ll know. Together, we’ll determine whether something is “Tried and TRUE” or “Tried and Boo”. Let’s dive into today’s review—my journey with psoriasis and the Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser.

A Psoriasis Diagnosis and My Search for Solutions

After a recent diagnosis of psoriasis, I decided to try Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser, a product that caught my eye for its promise to soothe sensitive skin. As someone who dealt with eczema as a child—a condition often mistaken for psoriasis—I learned from my dermatologist that childhood eczema can sometimes lead to psoriasis in adulthood. While the two conditions have similarities, they’re quite different in appearance and behavior.

Psoriasis entered my life abruptly, showing up one day on the palms of my hands, wrists, and fingers. The tiny white bumps and scaly patches threw me into a panic. I turned to my nurse practitioner, hoping for answers, but her response was dismissive: “Stay moisturized.” Frustrated, I left without a referral to a dermatologist, and as you might guess, the condition worsened. That little sidebar explains how I got to this product, but let’s take a moment to discuss the difference between eczema and psoriasis.

Eczema vs. Psoriasis: My Personal Experience

Eczema and psoriasis may both involve itchy, inflamed skin, but they differ significantly. Eczema looks like a rash, often resembling a reaction to an allergen or bug bite. It’s typically red, itchy, and sometimes oozing. Psoriasis, on the other hand, presents as scaly, dry patches on the skin. For me, psoriasis wasn’t as itchy as eczema, possibly because I identified it early and started managing it. The scaly appearance of psoriasis made me far more self-conscious, with visible areas like my hands.

Growing up, my grandmother swore by an old-school remedy: a capful of bleach in bathwater to “kill whatever’s on the skin.” Though unconventional, it seemed effective—my skin stayed relatively clear with her method. I even used it on my own kids when they had skin issues, and it worked for them too.

But psoriasis is different. It’s a chronic condition that requires ongoing management, not quick fixes. When I finally saw a dermatologist, I was diagnosed with plaque psoriasis, the most common form, accounting for 80–90% of cases. Plaque psoriasis is caused by a rapid turnover of skin cells, resulting in the dry, scaly patches characteristic of the disorder. While there’s no cure, it can be managed with a proper skincare routine.

Why I Chose Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser

My dermatologist encouraged me to research products for psoriatic skin. I wanted something gentle yet effective, so I started with a Google search. Among several options, Aveeno stood out because of its reputation for being gentle on sensitive skin. Its oat-based formula promised to calm and nourish, which was appealing for my skin type: medium-to-dark, oily, and prone to sensitivity.

While I haven’t noticed psoriasis patches on my face, I decided to stay ahead of potential flare-ups by adding this product to my routine. I’ve also been makeup-free for months, as I live in the South where the summer heat makes wearing makeup uncomfortable.

My Honest Review After 60 Days

I used the Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser for 60 days, going through half of the 7.8-ounce bottle. Here’s what I found:

Pros: This cleanser left my skin feeling soft, supple, and hydrated. It gave my skin a nice glow and didn’t cause any irritation.
Cons: While it felt great on my skin, it didn’t perform well as a cleanser. After washing my face, I followed up with a toner and was shocked by the amount of dirt left on the cotton pad. It was as if I hadn’t washed my face at all! Even after double-cleansing (using two pumps twice), the results were the same.

For context, I’ve included a photo of the cotton pad to show the leftover dirt. While this cleanser excels at hydrating and soothing, it doesn’t effectively remove dirt or impurities.

Is It Worth Trying?

If you’re looking for a cleanser that deeply cleanses, this product isn’t for you. However, if your goal is hydration and maintaining a soft glow, it could work as a secondary cleanser in your routine.

Managing psoriasis is a journey of trial and error. This cleanser is ideal for mild conditions like mine, offering soothing benefits without irritation. However, for more severe psoriasis, I’d recommend consulting a dermatologist for tailored options.

Final Thoughts

Psoriasis is a complex condition that varies from person to person. While the Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser didn’t fully meet my expectations, it’s still a decent choice for keeping skin soft and hydrated. My journey with this product reminds me that no single product works for everyone—especially with skin disorders like psoriasis.

As always, my reviews are 100% honest. Beauty is about finding what works for YOU. If you’ve tried this product or have recommendations for other gentle cleansers, let me know in the comments! Together, we can navigate the beauty world and uncover the “Tried and TRUE” gems while steering clear of the “Tried and Boo” disappointments.

Thank you for reading, and here’s to finding what truly works—one honest review at a time.

Categories: Beauty, Skin Care, Unveiling the Unfiltered Beauty Verdict Tags: Affordable Skincare Options, Aveeno Calm + Restore Review, Aveeno Skincare, beauty reviews, Beauty Tips for Sensitive Skin, Best Cleansers for Psoriasis, Best Products for Psoriasis, Drugstore Skincare, Eczema vs Psoriasis, Gentle Cleansers, Honest Beauty Reviews, Hydrating Cleansers, Managing Psoriasis, Oat-Based Skincare, Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriasis Care, Psoriasis Management Tips, Psoriasis Skincare, Psoriasis-Friendly Cleansers, Sensitive Skin Care, Skincare for Dark Skin, Skincare Journey, Skincare Routine, Trial and Error Skincare

“The Divided States of America: Wrestling with Freedom, Fear, and the Future in 2024”

kkrkbimy November 25, 2024 No Comments

Welcome to the United States of America, 2024 edition: a country entangled in its contradictions, a land of chaos where progress and regression collide daily. This is a nation that claims to champion freedom while clinging to archaic ideals. A place where over half the population bows to the whims of a man whose words and actions undermine the very fabric of equality and progress. How did we get here? How did a country that so boldly touted liberty become ensnared in such blatant hate, fear, and division? Attempting to go back is both perplexing and enraging. Too many mixed families, blended cultures, and shared histories exist to rewind the clock to an era of exclusion and oppression. It simply will not work. But one thing is certain: the road ahead will be anything but smooth.

Let us start with the education system—or what remains of it. What happens when those in charge of educating the masses actively undermine knowledge? Banned books, censored curriculums, history rewritten to avoid “offending” a select group? The result is a generation raised on ignorance, a deliberate “dumbing down” of the populace to maintain control. It is no coincidence that decision-makers pulling the strings are as uninformed as the average person. They are not experts, they are opportunists. The goal? To replace critical thinking with blind obedience. Those who remember how to think critically are the ones who voted for Harris and Walz. But critical thinking is not just a skill; it is a survival tool in a country that seems hell-bent on eroding the very foundations of knowledge.

Then there is the issue of social security—or the lack of it. What happens to elders who depend on Social Security when the new government, the billionaires club, decides that seniors would be better off without that income? Do seniors, elders stand on street corners with cups in hand, hoping for spare change? It is a grim picture, and the architects of this chaos seem indifferent. They have parents too, don’t they? But compassion is not profitable enough to make the cut in the new America they are building.

Let us not forget slavery—not in its historical sense, but in the exploitative systems that persist today. From prison labor to economic structures designed to trap the poor, the echoes of slavery remain, rebranded and normalized. And as if that were not enough, women’s rights have taken a catastrophic hit. Abortion bans with no exceptions for incest or rape force young girls to carry their rapists’ children. Women stripped of autonomy over their bodies, their futures dictated by lawmakers who will never face the consequences of these cruel policies. It is not just an attack on women—it is an assault on freedom itself.

What about healthcare? The appointment of figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as health czar adds another layer of absurdity to an already dystopian landscape. Doctors, who dedicate years of their lives and incur monumental debt to save lives, criminalized for performing their jobs. An OB-GYN forced to watch a patient deteriorate in a parking lot, unable to act until it is too late. The moral and ethical contradictions are staggering. How do they sleep at night knowing it was preventable?

Meanwhile, the cultural absurdities continue. Hulk Hogan—a legacy steeped in performative bravado— what is his job? being a cultural icon of rage, rough, and rowdy?

But whose and what culture are we talking about? We are scratching our heads wondering and discussing how convicted felons are unable to vote in states, but a convicted felon can be president of the United or divided States. Make that make sense. The irony screams louder than any protest ever could.

And then, of course, there’s Elon Musk—the enigmatic tech billionaire who oscillates between genius and chaos agent. Is he the hero we are supposed to rally behind? Or is he a distraction, a meme generator in a world that can no longer distinguish between satire and reality?

This is not just a blog for the curious. It is a call to action for anyone scratching their head, wondering how we ended up in this dystopian reality show. Together, we must ask the tough questions, confront the maddening answers, and, most importantly, figure out how to find our way out of this mess.

Driving for Democracy: Lessons from the Road

During the election season, I drove for Uber. With Kamala Harris at the top of the ticket, every ride became a microcosm of America’s political psyche. As I preached the importance of voting and civic engagement to my passengers, I encountered a startling reality: widespread ignorance. Not just misinformation, though that was rampant, but a sheer lack of awareness about the stakes at hand.

Why don’t people listen? Why don’t they research? In regions the campaign’s message of democracy, equality, and basic rights are not heard or understood. Was it a regional phenomenon or a symptom of something deeper -nationwide epidemic of apathy?

The most disheartening encounters were with those who understood the stakes but chose not to vote anyway. Their reasons varied—disillusionment, cynicism, laziness—but none seemed justifiable in the face of what was at risk.

Despite running a tight campaign, Harris and Walz lost by an alarming margin. It was not just a loss, it was a landslide, one that defied logic. If the gap had been narrower, it might have been easier to process. But the sheer size of the defeat was a gut punch, a stark reminder of the power of disengagement. Trump did not need every vote—he relied on apathy, and in far too many places, he was right.

One week after the election, a 19-year-old MAGA supporter slammed my car door and shouted, “Make America Great Again!” as he walked away. I did not feel anger—just because I was exhausted. How do you counter that kind of hostility? How do you reach people who seem determined to misunderstand?

Where Do We Go from Here?

Every generation faces its own battles in the fight for justice and equality. The issues may evolve, but the core struggle remains unchanged. Complacency is not an option. This is a marathon, not a sprint, and every step matters.

How do we bridge the gap between the informed and the uninformed? How do we reignite hope in those who feel powerless? How do we ensure that apathy does not win the next battle.

This is not just about one election. It is about the soul of a nation. The fight for progress is relentless, and it requires all of us to stay engaged, stay informed, and keep pushing forward.

The next chapter in this battle for democracy starts now. Are you ready to join it?

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