Dear reader,
I’ve spent months drafting and scrapping letter after letter, seeking words buried somewhere in my soul. Words of gratitude, devotion, desperation, and imagination. Words to make sense of the madness, and words to foster connection beyond it.
But, I’ve wonder lately, ‘even if I found these words, where would they go?’ Rage-profit media algorithms dominate our infosystems, pushing lies of racism, sexism, and nationalism faster and further than the truths of our interdependence. Those old-world “-isms” are so deeply embedded in today’s socioeconomic, political, and cultural environments they can appear natural, inevitable facts of life.
A goal of blue world is to unpack these embedded logics and open conversations toward generative alternatives. I know in my soul we can do better, be better—form a truly democratic world of peace and solidarity. I also know there are unfathomably powerful financial interests deeply vested in conserving the status quo.
In a forthcoming essay, I’ll explore the global rise of authoritarian politics, focusing acutely on Montana’s current legislative session. Behind the proposed laws vilifing transgender people, critical education, labor unions, and independent judiciaries, are concentrated financial powers sowing dissonance to swipe power from people.
At root, these authoritarians trap life in zero-sum dualities between “us” and “them,” placing moral emphasis on enclosures: borders, gender binaries, social hierarchies, and mythical pasts. Distrust is their lifeblood; solidarity their downfall.
To be free of tyranny, I believe it vital we build communities, co-ops, classes, and unions that nurture a critical consciousness, coalesce in truth, and act for the purpose of life and living, safely and freely, with agency and dignity for all.
With love,
Matt
The essay should be out in a few days. In the meantime, here’s a few things to ponder:
Read: Nia T. Evans, Revolution is a Great Work of Art
Listen: Upstream Podcast, Whiteness and Capitalism with Eleanor Hancock
Watch: Jon Stewart interview excerpt with pro-gun Oklahoma State Senator (below)
blue world will always be free and open. All are welcome to join this dialogue. Please write your thoughts below, share with your circles, and consider a paid subscription.
Thank you for being here. Peace!
LOVE the painting ❤️
Looking forward to it Matt! Shules love the painting! ❤️❤️