Let’s talk strategy

By Wilkinson Kayne

To my fellow progressive folk,

Hardly a day goes by without being called “woke” by someone from the right-wing brigade. And they do so with venom, and with every intent that they’re hitting us with the knockout blow of insults.

I don’t know about you, but when I’m the object of their pettiness I’m not the least bit insulted and I generally ignore it. “Let them be idiots,” I mumble to myself. “They’re the ones who look like, and act, as fools.” They simply aren’t cutting through.

As “righteous” as we on the left or in the centre are, we too have our little bag of insults (well, they’re not really insults if they are 100% factual). I’m talking about labels such as “fascist”, “right-wing nutjob (RWNJ)” or even “MAGAt”.

“Let them be idiots,” they probably mumble to themselves. “They’re the ones who look like, and act, as fools.” And we’re simply not cutting through. (Sound familiar?)

We’re at a stalemate. Nobody has achieved anything but to alienate people we need on our side

Instead of throwing insults let’s focus on a more powerful approach.

I had a boss many years ago who would ask – when a sales rep came around offering new ideas – “What’s in it for me?” I learned a lot from that boss. I learned that people would listen if there was something in it for them.

And what have we got that the anti-woke haven’t?

We have a vision of a better future, and we need to articulate a compelling narrative – a future where everyone has a chance to thrive, a future built on justice, equality, and compassion. Let’s inspire hope!

We can emphasise shared values: We’re all striving for a better society. Let’s highlight the common ground and build bridges instead of focusing on differences.

We have the capacity and the courtesy to engage in respectful dialogue: We can listen to opposing viewpoints without compromising on our values. Let’s be open to understanding different perspectives.

We can offer solutions: Stop just criticizing the “right” and offer concrete solutions to the challenges we face. Let’s demonstrate our commitment to progress!

By adopting this approach, we can create a more inclusive and inspiring movement that resonates with a wider audience. Let’s make a real difference!

We woke people can be the drivers of change.

I learned in a work situation that it is inherent in most people to resist change … unless … they can be one of the agents/drivers of change.

Let’s do it. Better still, let’s do it together. Let’s go for that drive.

#ProgressiveMovement, #BuildingABetterFuture, #BeyondLabels

 

Dear reader, we need your support

Independent sites such as The AIMN provide a platform for public interest journalists. From its humble beginning in January 2013, The AIMN has grown into one of the most trusted and popular independent media organisations.

One of the reasons we have succeeded has been due to the support we receive from our readers through their financial contributions.

With increasing costs to maintain The AIMN, we need this continued support.

Your donation – large or small – to help with the running costs of this site will be greatly appreciated.

You can donate through PayPal or credit card via the button below, or donate via bank transfer: BSB: 062500; A/c no: 10495969