Solstice Reflections from SCW Co-founder Jan Phillips
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Dear friend:
No matter what our attempts to inform, it's our ability to inspire that will turn the tides.
I composed that sentence for SCW in the mid 1980's and have been thinking about it in light of the elections, which were a super-shock to me. I think Trump turned the tides because he inspired people by coming off as “authentic,” no matter what opinions I might have about it. What I see as intolerable, many find worthy of applause. He doesn’t act like any other politician, like any Democrat, because he’s not confusing anyone with intellectual material. He spouts whatever simple statements he wants, and his people believe him. People WANT to believe in our leaders.
When I think about what we might do as progressives to locate and elect leaders that advance justice, equity and peace, I think we need to play a stronger role than just as voters. We might actually suggest what we’re inspired by in leadership. We might have a dialogue about what wins us over to one side or the other when it comes to issues. Philosopher Jacob Needleman wrote that “group pondering will be the art form of the future.” And that, I believe, is our job as social activists right now—to instigate group pondering, to foster dialogue, to trust ourselves as guides in the matter.
Kamala was great on informing, but she failed to inspire people. And what is it that actually transforms people? Causes them to move? I believe it’s a feeling of being heard, respected and responded to.
The solstice season is upon us and we have the perfect opportunity to practice this, especially with people whose ideas differ from ours. If you need some help in the conversation department, here's a document I created to foster group discussion.
And don’t forget, Syracuse Cultural Workers is a great source for all your gifts. No need to shop anywhere else! Happy Solstice season!
Jan Phillips
SCW co-founder