banner reading 'Listen. Listen. Listen.'

Manifesto: It’s Time to Hear Me! I Mean Really Hear me!

Octavio Pimentel

Challenging You. Yes, You!

As mentioned previously, I recognize that there are some scholars who are actively trying to fight against the obvious oppression people of color face in the United States. To them, I applaud their effort. Unfortunately, there are many others who are simply ignoring these issues that are dealing with these racist acts. To them I say, WAKE UP and do something about it. And I really do mean do something about it. Especially if you are a WEA. Recognize that as WHITE FOLKS you have special privileges that can really help fight racism. It is important to recognize that when BROWN and BLACK folk address issues of racism they are commonly ignored and are simply labeled or classified as "angry" or accused of playing the “race card." When white folks talk about the exact same race issues, other white folks have a tendency to listen. More than that, WEAs must also recognize that there are SPACES that they belong to where BROWN and BLACK folk will NEVER be allowed to speak or allowed to enter.