Why Tho
Personal Ramblings
Yesterday I went to the Muhammad Ali Center (you should too) and as per usual was motivated. In more of a personal statement, I have strived to be that kind of light for others— to put humanity above all things and support people no matter their station in life.
It was also just a reminder that where we are is not necessarily a new spot either. I took a picture in a section around segregation and the challenges Ali faced when he returned home to segregation after winning the Olympic gold medal.
Some of the stories in the archived newspapers from around Louisville (seriously you should go) talked about schooling issues, the fears white people had of too many Black people being in the urban center and their safety, and questions around what to do with those people who have nowhere to go.
Sound familiar?
It is wild that we are still fighting the same battles, the same forces, the same ridiculous arguments and deflections. Honestly, the gains in the 60s and 70s triggered a burrowed resentment that led to many of the issues we see today.
Project 2025…the courts being absolutely insane? The stacking of courts with 25year olds who have no clue how the law works— all on purpose and it started then. They were terrified of a world in which we aren’t kept apart and people who weren’t rich white dudes were treated with any dignity. And lord help us if we are allowed to go to school together— that is, again, where schemes like vouchers came from. A ploy to get back to the good ole days—aka make america great aga…nvm.
But there I was, in this amazing center that talked about one person who dedicated their life to service and fighting for humanity. From MY CITY. And it is so moving to think about the worldwide impact and humanitarian efforts undertaken. One would then conclude my city would be one of compassion (remember that) and humanity.
Right?
Nah— a few blocks away on that same day people were ‘removed’ by police for trespassing in a vacant downtown skyscraper. We have a few empty buildings downtown and a lot more people downtown with nowhere to go. I’ve been in their shoes and know the desperation. Many people making these decisions don’t know the feeling.
The humane thing to do, the Ali thing to do, would be to find a solution to help those in need. We have a simple one in our faces— reallocate some of those empty buildings and create housing options. You have a supply and a huge demand— I only minored in economics but I DO know that is a pretty simple equation.
I was frustrated that I personally can’t do more. And the juxtaposition of the day—one celebrating service to others and not being there for people in need when we can— was jarring.
Sorry this isn’t super funny or heavy on policy or whatever people expect from me on this still building platform. But this is my mind, this is what you get sometimes. Ramblings that are bred of the frustration of not being able to do what I wish I could, and the inaction of those who CAN DO something right now.
In two days being homeless is further criminalized in Kentucky. I am absolutely sure the Jasons of the world who pushed for this terrible law are also working super hard to provide supports for people in need…not.
What a day.