It's your choice

Well, now I am done posting lyrics to one obscure song (listen to the cover of it though!) and one big classic (listen to the original!). I'm ready to talk about an issue that has really been on my mind all throughout 2011.

I've really come down to a simple conclusion on a lot of social issues. You can't call yourself a progressive and say that you support the empowerment of different groups unless you promote everyone's equal access to them. I'm talking to the progressive governor or member of Congress who decides to slash funding for social services for the poor and downtrodden (while they enjoy a hundred-dollar-a-plate fundraising dinner). I'm meaning the "pro-choice" president or congressperson who decides to vote for a law restricting abortion access in the name of "bipartisanship" (in particular if they're cisgender men and cannot get pregnant). I'm also criticizing the hetero politician who says that of course they're an ally for the LGBT community because they support civil unions rather than full-on marriage.

Now do any of these examples sound at all like allies or as if they believe in the positions they supposedly espouse? Not at all! And I'm not just talking about politicians either (though many of them have recently drawn my ire). I'm also talking to the lay folk who back down as soon as possible when they feel as though others don't share their belief.* It's just so ridiculous. If you support something, and if you call yourself a progressive/liberal/some other varient, you have to support equal access to it. Progressivism is about equality.

*A quick word. If it's not safe to do so, you don't have to be all vocal about your beliefs. I can understand if you're worried about your own personal safety and well-being. However, if the situation poses no danger or risk to you (like a conversation or something), the most progressive thing would be to say what you believe. Not cover it up or act like it's something only people like you should have.