There is a shift in the way we view history and a shift in the way we perceive our leaders. My generation was taught that there were great figureheads we should emulate. We were taught that our political leaders and institutions were to be admired for the ability they had to make change. We were given history books that highlight leaders of consequence with specific dates and acts for reference.
This approach felt like handing me a beautifully wrapped but empty box. Change has never been the consequence of one person’s acts but rather it has depended upon whole groups of people acting in accordance.
David Brooks, and Op-Ed columnist for The New York Times http://nyti.ms/2COLthU recently surveyed groups of students from several colleges. It became clear from their comments that current changes are being made by movements without specific leaders – #metoo and #blacklivesmatter
Perhaps we should take a second look at our history books. Yes, we’ve always had strong leaders and we always will. But haven’t we overlooked the power of simple moral indignation being expressed publicly. The platform has been not only your vote, but the dining room table, conversations during the morning commute, coffee groups, book groups, church groups, and now social media. Every person in this country has a voice. Every person becomes a leader when they use their voice. History will give testimony.
#socialhistory #socialchange #history #historyteachers
I agree we all have a voice and need to use it, but, historically, that voice has never been heard until it has become part of an organized movement, and organization requires leaders. Workers had no voice until Debs, Haywood and many others stepped up and lead. African Americans had no voice before King, Evers, Lewis, and others stepped up to lead and organize.
I take your point. But then everyday voices were often strong, just not publicized. The leaders you mention drew from ‘grass roots.’ They did hear the voices of those they spoke for. Changes today are also from grass roots, but with social media the same kind of leadership is perhaps not as necessary.