Embracing the Label: navigating the challenges of being called a radical
Have you ever been called a “Black Panther”, a “Malcolm X”, an extremist ? Me, my whole life.
Being labelled an "extremist" is a common experience for many people who have been vocal about issues related to social justice, equality and systemic racism.
It is used as a strategy to discredit and silence marginalised individuals or groups who challenge existing power structures and advocate for social justice and equality.
The purpose of this term is to make me look like an aggressor and discredit my arguments.I've always felt complimented by this political label rather than insulted.However, being labelled an extremist can be a badge of honour for those who stand up for what is right and just.
When your behaviour is inevitably associated with this adjective of fear is in many cases, is when you glorify your community, reply with opposite facts, or when stand up for social justice.
Being proud of yourself is therefore equated with political extremism.
Extremism is a noun to silence you. It is used to make you feel insecure, ashamed and marginalised. This is a tactic that has been used throughout history to maintain the status quo and prevent progress towards a more equitable society.
You are an extremist ´cause you question their whitewashed political view of history, cinema, art, music, or life in general. Unfortunately, extremist labelling is not only a tool used by individuals, but it is also often utilised by mainstream media and politicians to stifle activism and dissent.
You are insolent since you are not waiting for their validations, arrogant because you don’t adapt to their foolish whims or aggressive as you have strong hair-splitting thoughts and severely refuse to moderate them. In reality, being labelled an extremist is a way to dismiss valid concerns and criticisms of the oppressive systems in place.
You are an extremist.
They have been used to seeing you as a passive, non-violent being, the one who turns the other cheek. If you dare to resist, they criminalize and project an unpleasant image of you so they won’t have to confront their racism, bias or prejudices.
They call you an extremist.
Extremism is justified when it is used to defend human liberty and in the face of oppression and injustice, moderation and compromise would only lead to further oppression.
““When a man is exercising extremism, a human being is exercising extremism in defence of liberty for human beings, it’s no vice.And when one is moderate in the pursuit of justice for human beings, I say he is a sinner””