86. Stay Woke with Justin Michael Williams

Origins

The term "woke" has deep roots in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, where it was used to encourage awareness of social injustices. Justin Williams explains that the word has been misused and misunderstood in recent years, often seen as a trendy catchphrase rather than a call for vigilance 1. He emphasizes the importance of reclaiming the term to reflect its original intent of staying alert to societal issues 2.

The message of that word was, when people were telling people, stay woke or be woke, was to make sure you're watching the things and you're aware and awake to the things that are actually happening in the world.

--- Justin Williams

Williams argues that despite its overuse, the term "woke" remains essential for those fighting for their rights, as it encapsulates a complex awareness that cannot be easily replaced 2.

   

Action

Staying woke is not just about awareness; it demands action. Justin Williams stresses that being woke involves a continuous commitment to both external vigilance and internal reflection 3. He highlights the importance of addressing internalized systems of oppression, which mirror the external challenges we face.

Woke isn't just, like, a word. It is a call to action. For us to constantly stay in this alignment, in this path of being awake.

--- Justin Williams

Williams also points to community-driven solutions, like pandemicoflove.com, which foster local engagement and support, illustrating how wokeness can translate into tangible actions that benefit society 4.