WOKE – What Is It?

 FLORIDA  

Opinion by:  
E. Eugene Webb PhD


In April 2022, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signs HB 7, known as the "Stop WOKE Act," whose acronym stands for Wrongs to our Kids and Employees.

Woke" is a term that originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and gained broader cultural significance in recent years. It refers to being aware, knowledgeable, and critical of social and political issues, particularly those related to race, gender, and social justice. Being "woke" is often associated with being actively engaged in recognizing and challenging systemic injustices, inequality, and discrimination.

The term "woke" has been embraced and popularized by various social movements, particularly in the context of racial justice and activism. It signifies a heightened consciousness about societal issues, including racism, sexism, LGBTQ+ rights, economic inequality, and other forms of oppression. Those who consider themselves WOKE often strive to foster social change, advocate for marginalized communities, and challenge established norms and power structures.

It is important to note that the term "WOKE" has also garnered criticism and has been subject to debate. Some argue that it has been overused or misused, diluting its original meaning, and turning it into a superficial trend. Others view it as a necessary awakening to systemic issues and an essential aspect of social progress. The interpretation and usage of the term may vary depending on the context and individual perspectives.

HuffPost by Paul Blumenthal: Ron DeSantis Wants To Take His 'War On Woke' National. There’s One Big Problem: The Constitution.

In short, Americans are worn out from elite virtue signaling and woke performance art from the critical race theory capitalists, multimillionaire corporate CEOs, revolving-door Pentagon brass, Malibu celebrities, and credentialed elite.

The problem is not just that most of America is exhausted from being smeared as racists or hearing that a wonderful country—the most free, just, equitable, affluent, and leisured in civilization’s history— must continually pay penance for its past and present.

The public is even more tired of projectionist hypocrisy. Those who scream the loudest are usually the most guilty of woke crimes.- VICTOR DAVIS HANSON Independent Institute.

I too must admit that I am a bit tired of the Woke emphasis invading everything from TV commercials to the evening local news. It often seems that a correct ethnic mix of TV anchors is more important than the talent necessary to anchor a newscast.

I don't feel guilty about any of the WOKE issues and the continuing pressure to force these ideals and goals into our culture I find more boring that impressive.

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Disclosures: Portions of this Post were prepared using an Artificial Intelligence Application.