Our Situation Has Always Been Dire, Now It’s Just More Obvious
The resources that Americans rely on are vanishing, and under the new presidency, the pace has only quickened. But let’s be honest—it’s not a new phenomenon. The programs that were meant to provide support have always been precarious, often marketed in ways that misled the public into believing they existed solely for the benefit of minorities. This convenient framing created a false divide, pitting communities against one another while the math never quite added up.
The truth is, no one has been spared. We’re all in the same boat now, staring at the same sinking ship. Yet society still clings to distractions and side arguments to justify the ongoing exploitation of everyday Americans. So, what do we do? We focus on our focus. And for everything else? Let them.
The "Only Minorities Benefit" Lie
For years, social programs—food assistance, housing support, healthcare subsidies—were painted as handouts exclusively benefiting minorities. This narrative stoked resentment and division, all while ignoring the fact that the majority of recipients have always been white, simply because they make up the largest percentage of the population. The math never math-ed, but it didn’t need to. The goal wasn’t clarity; it was confusion.
Still, even with the truth readily available, there are those who choose to cling to this lie. They’ll argue that programs like SNAP or Medicaid are abused by “others,” ignoring the corporate welfare and tax breaks siphoning far more money from public funds. If they want to believe that fiction? Let them.
"It’s Not That Bad" and Other Delusions
Even as wages stagnate, housing costs skyrocket, and healthcare becomes a luxury rather than a right, some will argue that “it’s not that bad.” They’ll point to statistics that mask the lived realities of millions or celebrate minor economic “wins” that only benefit the top 1%. They’ll say the system works, and that if you’re struggling, it’s because you’re not working hard enough.
If they want to ignore how many people are working multiple jobs just to survive? Let them.
If they want to downplay the fact that millions are one medical bill away from bankruptcy? Let them.
If they want to pretend that the housing crisis is a matter of laziness instead of systemic greed? Let them.
The Great Divide and Conquer Strategy
Society thrives on side arguments. Instead of addressing the systemic exploitation at the root of our struggles, we’re encouraged to argue over crumbs. Who deserves help? Who is “lazy”? Who is gaming the system? These debates keep us too distracted to notice the bigger picture: the entire system is rigged to benefit a select few at the expense of the rest of us.
If they want to keep debating who deserves basic human rights instead of demanding equity for all? Let them.
If they want to argue over stereotypes instead of questioning why billionaires pay less in taxes than teachers? Let them.
If they want to believe that charity or bootstraps are the solution to systemic issues? Let them.
Justifying Exploitation with Morality
Another favorite distraction is morality. Society loves to frame poverty or need as a moral failing. If you’re struggling, it must be because you didn’t plan well, didn’t work hard enough, or made poor life choices. This narrative erases the structural barriers that keep people from thriving—things like predatory lending, unaffordable childcare, and the rising cost of education.
If they want to blame individuals instead of systems? Let them.
If they want to believe that billionaires “earned” their wealth while workers barely scrape by? Let them.
If they want to pretend that empathy is a weakness and not a strength? Let them.
What We Need to Do Instead
Here’s the thing: we don’t have time to waste convincing people who don’t want to see the truth. The situation is dire, and while they argue, the clock is ticking. Instead of engaging in endless debates, we need to focus on the things that truly matter—on what puts us in a position to defend ourselves and protect our futures.
Invest in Knowledge: Educate yourself on the policies and systems at play. The more you understand, the better equipped you are to navigate and challenge them.
Build Community: Isolation is a tool of oppression. Connect with others who share your vision and values, because there is strength in numbers.
Prepare for All Outcomes: Whether it’s financial preparedness, skill-building, or simply knowing your rights, make sure you’re ready to face whatever comes next.
Hold Systems Accountable: Demand change where it matters—at the polls, in policy, and through protest.
Conclusion
The cracks in the system were always there, but now they’re impossible to ignore. And while some will continue to argue, deflect, and distract, we can’t afford to wait for them to catch up.
Let them argue. Let them deny. Let them cling to the comforting lies that shield them from the truth.
Our focus must be on what we can control—on building lives, communities, and systems that can withstand every attack, every challenge, and every betrayal. The situation is dire, but we have always been resilient. Now, more than ever, that resilience must be our focus.
