(07-06-2020, 01:04 PM)NYC4jags Wrote:

(07-06-2020, 11:46 AM)Lucky2Last Wrote: Conservatives are offended because they recognize that it's lip service, and progressives are offended that conservatives are offended about just lip service. Weird times.

That is NOT what conservatives in this thread have been saying.

Obviously, that is a super reductionist point of view. It's an oversimplification meant to juxtapose the positions. 

You may not think that is what conservatives are upset about, but it definitely plays a role in their ire. When they complain about this, they are basically asking the question, whether they realize it or not, "What's the point?" I get frustrated with many conservatives, because I don't think they really take the time to process their feelings. They are really susceptible to "moral" impulses, much like their progressive counterparts. The difference, for me, is that I more closely share the same world view as conservatives, so it's easier for me to understand those "moral" principles.

What you are seeing the conservatives express here, is that the national anthem is supposed to be a time for unity. Playing a different song to placate the black players in the league does not effectuate change. In fact, it distinctly highlights a division that exists specifically along racial lines. Personally, I don't believe this is going to bring about any positives. Everything we do to highlight racial differences is only going to drive people apart. I don't believe this gesture isn't going to make some blacks feel more important or heard. In fact, I don't believe this is lip service to blacks, but to white liberals. There is a long history in this country of white liberals offering up platitudes to the black community so they can maintain moral authority, and, by extension, actual authority. 

I see nothing wrong with conservatives fighting for unity by holding firm to the belief that there should be occasions where we all see each other as one nation, indivisible. It is a solid principle. I wish they would do more to help their black brothers and sisters feel included, but the way democrats have chosen to "help" the black community has only made things in this country worse. And the fact they admit they have to pacify the black community from time to time should be a strong indicator of how ineffective their solutions have been.

---