The problem with wokeness | All About Women 2019

[@NallahBrown]

"Suffering is not a gateway to moral superiority."

[@albertogutierrez9734]

Suffering has been my best teacher. I never gave up. Thank you, Nallah. True words.

[@Jianju69]

Thinking otherwise is a gateway to arrogance.

[@SlappeeGaming]

"We have began to look for moral purity, rather than honesty". Goodness me, this is a good speech!

[@26bestest]

Other way round i think?

[@Godskeiki]

Absolutely!!!

[@jaylinsa]

@@ts8404 that would be an improvement! Usually you're far/alt-right!

[@just_another32]

yeh but they aren't finding moral purity. A racial ideology (critical racial theory) is not morally good...

[@FishSlappee]

@@just_another32 exactly!

[@jwf2125]

Bless you x1000 for this. I'm an old white man who gave up working with local "progressives" after saying the same things and being attacked for it. "You're white/male/cis/straight/whatever, you just can't understand." Or when I've shared my own relevant experience and been told, "White people think it's all about them." Or, "It's not our duty to explain all this to you. Go do your own research." Seldom an answer to my question, or even an attempt to discuss the substance of an issue. Just these ad hominem responses that go nowhere. I had to quit: I was beginning to see these people, real people with their own strengths and weaknesses, as just a big mob of Identity Troopers looking for fights. Maybe I'll try again, with all this encouragement from this wise young woman.

[@danellis4437]

I'm an old white guy as well and have become sickened with this wave of woke thinking. I'm not a left leaning white apologist and I'm proud of my background and history so, of course, this form of aggressive group think is offensive to me. Not suggesting that some things shouldn't change but mature and balanced thinking is required that also considers context. What we have here these days is a trend in Marxist group think and this is tyrannical.

[@iamisaid2295]

good luck with that, you only have to say the "wrong" thing once and they'll come for you. I'll think you find the true progressives are now Centrists heading to the right, and we are going to see some "progressiveness" (for want of a better word) in the conservative side.

[@sneezyfido]

In my words, I just want the old truly inclusive left back!

[@oliviawildblood1639]

I'm only 18 years old, but I completely agree with this line of thinking. I'm yet to find people my own age who are ready to engage in nuanced and mature discussions rather than hopping on trends, it's quite alarming

[@tiafarrell1938]

@@oliviawildblood1639 im also 18 and i completely agree! Its so nice to hear someone who is able to think so clearly, Ayishat vocalizes everything ive been thinking so well, i wish i were able to talk about these topics in this way to other people my age

[@NicolaMM]

The idea that others are stupid because I do not agree with them is arrogant and blind. Empathy creates a desire to understand others and a desire to be quiet, to listen and be open minded.

[@paulj0557tonehead]

It's the nature of mob rule and using it to teach kids Social Studies. Kids get seeped in idealism, political correctness and history revisionism. It's empirically wrong! Present 'feelings' cannot replace feelings in the past! TO DO IT KILLS ALL EMPATHY!

[@andrewbristena3787]

Very well said!

[@earlj.d.6285]

Agreed! It finds the common ground which is essential to progress and weeds out issues that the two may never agree on.

[@sharamusica]

It’s so true. This cancel culture is toxic

[@junkymailhai2074]

Back in the Wild West days, ppl settled their disputes more accurately. Today it’s just...take out camera and shoot!

[@carawells3658]

I used to be “woke” In middle school/early high school. I wasn’t too extreme, but I fit in with this crowd of people. Mid high school I started questioning my thoughts and my peers thoughts/values, and I decided to expose myself to that discomfort area. I started watching more conservative media, and listening to what very right wing ppl had to say. For a while I really agreed with it, but found actually there are a lot of conservative values I don’t share. Now I’m going into my last year of high school and I feel as if I’m falling into the middle after experiencing both sides of the spectrum. I might be falling slightly left, but centrist. I am realizing that there are ignorant ideas on both sides, good ideas on both sides and valid intellectuals on all sides. And the great thing is, is I don’t have to agree with this woman 100% to acknowledge that she’s an intelligent wonderful thinker with many great ideas that I do like. Anyway, if feels weird to be in the left, stray away from the left, and end up drifting back into the middle, but I’m so happy there are people like this woman to show me and others that you can have left leaning values, and not be crazy.

[@user-dq2ym1nn9k]

well said - I feel the same way...the confusion comes on vote day though ! lol

[@BM-fz9yc]

Don’t feel weird at all. It’s really great to see young minds like yours. Never stop questioning yourself. Never stop questioning what society tries shoving down your throat. You are obviously very smart. Keep it up. There’s a lot of polarization in today’s society between the left and the right. I’ve been feeling like I’m alone on the outside looking in at all the chaos. But theres a lot of people like us!

[@user-dq2ym1nn9k]

@@BM-fz9yc In the media now it's just a constant stream of people apologizing - we are living in such a time of extreme censorship and it concerns me. I'm resolved not to get swept up with the masses but try to use the combination of commonsense, rationality and kindness as my north star

[@kianaspeaks]

Wow i literally experienced everything you stated. Also a senior now

[@selenehernandez8279]

I am experiencing the same as you

[@basiclee5770]

wokeness is a nightmare. You can't even talk with these people about the things they claim to care about. They're too triggered, and there's no dialogue

[@LDuke-pc7kq]

'Feelings' over facts and logic... last time I checked, what got us All out of the stone age was our abilities to think critically, discuss, debate and amend our ideas into systems that promote societal safety and structure so we can flourish/ grow.. but whatever... 🤣

[@beefstew4721]

L. Duke the ability to think clearly comes from the ability to feel clearly but you obviously wouldn’t know that

[@LDuke-pc7kq]

@@beefstew4721 I feel... I may have triggered you, is that better?

[@beefstew4721]

L. Duke there you go, you felt you triggered me, but alas you have not. So your thought is incorrect. Isn’t it great when you can have a conversation with another person?

[@Lisa_L]

Getting carried away with feelings and political correctness is what distorts and clouds logic reasoning, imo. I feel empathy is important, and I have it in spades, but I can definitely handle a conversation with someone who has a different opinion than I do. ‘Group think’ and the ineptitude for critical analysis is what triggers me. Big time. Also, I have to add ‘cancel culture’. I can’t stand it. To me, it’s like a bunch of simpleton toddlers stomping their feet and throwing a tantrum when they don’t get their way. Their arguments become so ludicrous, they cease to even make sense.

[@lauryn2868]

In general mob mentality isn’t good

[@thevarietychannelofyoutube4769]

People who hate SJW's have a huge mob mentality.

[@gaple1995]

@@thevarietychannelofyoutube4769 I think you have it wrong, it's the other way around lol

[@thevarietychannelofyoutube4769]

@@gaple1995 If you and thousands of others gang up to hate on a group of people for years on end and build off each other's hatred without acknowledging that groups humanity and without acknowlaging that group as having legitimate opinions that you happen to disagree with, you are a mob. Look on any comments section below a cringe compilation or anti SJW video. It's a swarm of people hate-jerking about SJWs in hyperbolic, over the top ways and each person feeds on the others anger. It's disturbing

[@gaple1995]

@@thevarietychannelofyoutube4769 Yeah and the same can be said about the radical left mob. They do the same exact thing. I don't agree with people that form a mob mentality against SJW either because of exactly that, you no longer see them as human. I'm not in the SJW hating brigade but I can definitely see that the radical left has turned into a modern witch hunt. Even trying to have a reasonable conversation is impossible. Believe me I have tried. Maybe if people can take the middle road and stop with the hysteria, this would pan out better.

[@lauryn2868]

The Variety Channel of youtube I didn’t specify any particular thing, just generally mob mentality isn’t good, but that doesn’t mean people who hate certain things automatically are in the mob, tho many are. Same way if you advocate for change doesn’t necessarily make you part of the mob, tho lots of people are. Just going with the flow of everyone else whether that’s the internet, home, school or work. If you just copy and paste others ideas to fit in to society or fit into a community then your not really thinking. And that is unfortunate.

[@umsrum]

She is saying what a lot of us are thinking but don't have a way to say it in a way that isn't offensive and also teaches other people the complex ideas. She is really smart !!

[@homepowerpro]

She does have a very thoughtful, compassionate way of saying things, God bless her, but is there any safe way for ANYone to critique The Woke Mob without getting treated like the antichrist? We all need to learn to distinguish between the people and messages that feed our souls, and those that feed OFF of them.

[@jonnyrocket3659]

student politics

[@_oly_241]

You used to be able to have debates/lectures about very sensitive topics (Milton Friedman is well worth checking out) but those days are long gone never to return. That said, to sum it up she is basically a more sophisticated woke "outraged eveyday" progressive liberal who doesn't totally shut the door on discourse or necessarily demonize those who don't agree with her. This is certainly a step in the right direction, but I would be curious how far that goes truly. There are really significant issues that need to be discussed but conflict with wokeness mythology...just try and say police aren't the problem their made out to be, women are paid equally (as in it isn't the significant problem it's made out to be) or talk about the self perpetuating victimhood in certain communities that is destroying them. Sadly, today talking about the aforementioned before a group of people at most any college or HS won't end well..thou there are a few exceptions. (Ex Berkley/ Milo riots or how they shutdown Heather McDonald) All that said, I will definitely check out more of her debates/speeches

[@streetfashiontv9149]

I love you Holly

[@Rellikan]

It seems like any explanation is offensive to some group because the game has been framed that way to begin with. Woke crusaders only use empathy, kindess and compassion as a weapon to assert control over your behaviour. They don't actually care about the plight of the people of colour, and any that do are being used as pawns. In other words, Woke crusaders are power hungry authoritarians.

[@brookeperk93]

“We’ve reduced complex issues black and white both literally and figuratively” WOW. Beautifully said.

[@jeninajiffy]

This talk is incredible. I cannot believe it took me over a year to find it. I feel like I have found my person.... All of the humans who feel as she does, need to stand up and speak out against cancel culture and internet trolls and shaming. Especially in today's current environment more than a year later, things have gotten worse. I am going on a binge of Ayishat's videos on the internet now. Thank you!

[@lagunabxo]

I feel the same way!

[@heathernovak8779]

@@lagunabxo Me three!

[@just_another32]

:D

[@just_another32]

not sure if you are based in the UK but if you want another (but slightly different) UK perspective, visit my channel :)

[@badgerlife9541]

Yes! Ayishat Akanbi is so bright and a brilliant thinker. If you like her, you might also like Ayaan Hirsi Ali. She also has some great talks and interviews on KZbin. Look her up :)

[@caitlynryder8639]

She does not look like the typical person I would expect to hear this kind of sentiment from. I'm glad to see that artistic types are switched onto these kinds of issues, it's been a lonely couple of years without them. This is also really good advice.

[@banziimavusotv]

Hahaha, there's an enclave of rational 'artistic types' who are no longer afraid to swim away from the herd these days. We too had to learn how to articulate ourselves and remove ourselves from just being the creators who have mouth-pieces.

[@openSUSE5]

@@banziimavusotv It's interesting how people who are highly creative are usually extremely open-minded. But in many ways, "woke" culture is an intolerant, close-minded, orthodoxy. I'm looking forward to the moment more artists realize that being woke is like viewing the world through a monochromatic lens.

[@oliverdadda]

I think she's awesome

[@ydelysuarez2548]

You can’t fight intolerance with more intolerance otherwise you become what you are fighting against. Love it ❤️

[@Krauselovic]

What happens when you tolerate intolerance?

[@rosaliamiranda4808]

This, I did in know if I was the only one thinking the same, everything seems to have turned into a direction where it's a war between the demographics, so much hate, and it's truly not the solution

[@afoninja121]

@@Krauselovic you get a difference of opinion. There's a difference between a person who is a bigot and a racist who only talks about his hate, vs someone who acts on it. People can think whatever the hell they want, but the second that their hate is put into motion, then that's where the issue should begin. Otherwise what you'd be preaching is though policing. If that's the kind of world you'd rather live in then there are countries that do just that and youd probably fit better there.

[@Krauselovic]

@@afoninja121 It's not my opinion just a problem i see. So do I understand you correct, that you say you wouldn't tolerate intolerant action and behavior?

[@afoninja121]

@@Krauselovic The point where physical action is necessary is when intolerance is in itself physical action, or a call to physical action. As long as it is just speech, regardless of how hateful, should be unactionable.

[@mena94x3]

Loved “To insult someone who doesn’t live your reality for failing to consider you, is to oversimplify the human experience.”

[@jasondaniels640]

All is fair in love and war. And right now we have a war going on at all levels, and to say otherwise is strategic and tactical by those who wish to continue to protect their realities that benefit them and theirs, like Donald J. Trump has clearly demonstrated over the last 4 years. I'm glad there's an extreme force to counter this protect of the priveleged.

[@didndido3638]

I always knew logical thinking people like Ayishat existed, not surprised. BUT..that people like Ayishat can fill halls that's a glimmer of hope right there.

[@ursmax]

Frankly, what she says about anger, and the connection she draws, have me stop listening. That's a full load of horsemanure. Yes, the left, wokeness being their latest "invention", have jumped the shark quite some time ago. But that doesn't make what Ayishat says even a single bit less wrong. At least the part I could be bothered to listen to.

[@MsChitterchat]

DidnDiDo Look up Shelby Steele, Zuby and Munira Mirza too.

[@didndido3638]

@@MsChitterchat I will, thanks.

[@ursmax]

@Sofia X You need to stop phantasizing and projecting. Some stuff is simply a waste of time, including this clip.

[@ursmax]

@Sofia X Apparently you're a bit slow, so let me repeat: You need to stop phantasizing and projecting.

[@Cotictimmy]

Plug her name into KZbin search along with 'Triggernometry' for another terrific 1 hour discussion with her about the current melt-down in civilized conversation.

[@meneither3834]

Name of the video is trigonometry - "victimhood is a state of mind."

[@iankclark]

watched

[@ilovevivi7201]

Thanks !

[@KLeeFMVs]

Thanks! Just discovered her. She's fantastic.

[@kasvinimuniandy4178]

Thank you

[@elayne8258]

I feel like this should be added: starting an argument with an insult invalidates the rest of your argument.

[@nowaylon2008]

"Intelligence is the ability to hold two opposing ideas in mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function. " Good quote.

[@vorahstory8528]

I am a very uneducated 60-year-old woman, I just had to get my phone to tell me how to spell uneducated. But I was brought up in a family that had quite a lot of money. I was told that I didn't need no education because I would get married. So nothing was done about my really bad dyslexia. I think I agree with what you're saying but a lot of the words you say I can't understand course they are too long and you sound very very educated. Maybe I will listen a few times. I am so glad that I do not have to spell anything anymore and they made phones that write things for you. I am quite a good reader I know that I have wrote something wrong I will listen a few more times then I might post it so my friends can see

[@paulinacolada8581]

I hope you try again, all the best to you.

[@patriciawanczyk4181]

If you can understand how to use these modern-day phones you can learn to do anything, go for it

[@jwf2125]

I so admire you for engaging in whatever way works for you. Education is not wisdom; you are probably as wise or wiser than many of us who throw words around like they're the best thing in the world. It's not what's in the head that counts, it's what's in the heart. Your heart is big, or you wouldn't have written this.

[@ALBUMOF2008]

The way people reacted to the JK Rowling situation was eye-opening to me - people were very quick to condemn but not very eager to listen.

[@jp_03766]

"Wokeness reduces complex issues" Exactly

[@nicopaolo]

I cannot believe what an incredible conversation this was, from start to finish; the speech at the begging, the moderated interview, the questions from the audience. It’s honestly so impressive that at every level a lot of important topics were touched on and with such care. Genuinely what a win for open, honest, and compassionate conversation. What an incredible room to have been in.

[@lll-bm1cp]

Every online activist should listen to this!

[@lll-bm1cp]

One thing I find really frustrating about instagram activists is when they disable the comment section. That is so counter productive because it doesn't allow you to ask questions in order to understand better ,it eliminates dialogue and it could cause misunderstanding. Also, to me, it is important to acknowledge the arguments of the opposing group and to understand where they are coming from. Insulting, blocking and canceling will never make them change their opinion, it just reinforces it.

[@tiafarrell1938]

@@lll-bm1cp completely agree

[@didndido3638]

@@lll-bm1cp You want "a dialogue" in an instagram comment section?! I think you should reevaluate your position.

[@JessStone-hl8ed]

They don't listen. Like Harry & Meghan, they're too busy trying to tell everyone else what to think, feel & do oh & don't mind what we really say, think or do.

[@abelgonzales3695]

@@lll-bm1cp Ironically, it's like a wierd form of fascism that they preach passionately against. It may not be by force, but shuts down a dialogue nonetheless.

[@nuufoualo5934]

Okay I’m not even gonna lie I was definitely becoming victim of the whole wokity-woke-youre phobic/ist whatever. I was more concerned with trying to look like a good person rather than just be honest. With myself and others. I felt really repressed bc I was afraid if I said how I really feel I’m gonna get dog piled. Which I have a lot of anxiety around. She definitely has the words that I’ve struggled to find for so long but I feel so relieved now. So relieved that I don’t have to hate everybody and that I can disagree with certain things and still treat others w respect and kindness/not have it an existential threat to someone.

[@okzoomer5728]

I am a progressive, but keep my politics to myself, because I'm always worried I could have my life ruined by being canceled for saying something slightly wrong. The United States is in a dangerous predicament right now for how polarized both sides of the isle are, thanks to cancel culture and the popularization of puritan politics. It feels like everyone's out for blood (figuratively, or literally) and revenge instead of constructively tackling issues affecting equality and human rights. We are in ever-increasing danger of being manipulated by fascist cults of personalities that tailor to our growing divisive views; and no, this is not just a pressing danger on the far right. Unless this country comes to a consensus that our constant need for animosity toward perceived differences has gotten out of control, I fear for the future of our democracy.

[@lenny7577]

Let's be honest you're not worried what someone on the right thinks so don't say both sides are polarized.

[@Xeranx]

"... Intersectionality is seeing the importance of other people's suffering." Interesting how that's not how it works. The Progressive Stack uses Intersectionalism, a convoluted method of using an individual's immutable characteristics to create whole groups and identify that group's problems as shared by all. I'm black so I must have issues with police, systemic and institutionalized racism, and slavery. Well my instances with police have been fairly neutral and rarely negative. I don't assume systemic or institutionalized racism has any effect on me and proceed as the regarded privileged white people do. I'm not rich and have more of a working class mindset, and if there are any issues with slavery in my family's background, it has nothing to do with the US. So though I've been assumed to bear the same struggle as other black people, many who wore Jordan's (despite being on welfare) and other name brand attire, while my parents bargain shopped for clothes, I don't have the same struggle. My parents didn't take a piece of the chip they had on their shoulder and pass it on to me making me carry the weight I didn't even know was gifted to me. Please don't misunderstand me. There are some issues that can be shared, but wokeists and people who believe in the new religion, Intersectionalism, aren't ready to tackle problems. They're only interested in complaining.

[@banredassaultsuvs361]

you sound like Larry Elder or Thomas Sewell, and the way they present things. i like it, thumbs up for you

[@ratusbagus]

Hi xeranx Thanks for not being silent. Sounds like your oppression is inversely proportionate to my privilege. As in we're both low grade examples that don't prove the rule.

[@Redtecho]

Small KZbin... i see you all the time.

[@ratusbagus]

Xeranx I came back here to read your comment again. You taught me something. In your first 2 paragraphs. Pushing 70, I carry the original sin of being white, male and aged. Thus today, non-deserving of a voice or opinion.....unless that opinion has very specific resonance with a very particular narrative and a sore knee. I have lived through more change than these vile Woke Liberal babies have the reference points to imagine. That shoulder chip diminished every generation. My Irish parents had one too. We all worked hard and succeeded in becoming colour blind. I loved the diversity of my friends and and over time, even my multi ethnic young relatives. Now, sick identity politics demands that we must be skin aware again. Re-Learn that nobody is the same and that some of us are oppressors and others oppressed. Non of this identity politics stuff is needed. It's time has gone. It doesn't fit with my diverse family. Are my grandchildren supposed to hate me for being more privileged than they are.... When I raised half of their parents? Them and us is so poisonously divisive. I won't kneel for Marxism.

[@ilovevivi7201]

Very well spoken argument. I do not often enjoy reading youtube comments but yours very much caught my attention. Fully agree with everything you said.

[@ptolemy8818]

If she writes a book, I'll buy it. What a beautifully, educated young woman. You are a fantastic role model for young women to look up to. This is such a wholesome message.

[@tryordiegarage]

Watched Ayishat on Triggernometry yesterday she has matured and refined her position quite a lot...an excellent young thinker and a great future leader perhaps...one to watch..

[@yengsabio5315]

I'll sure watch it! Thanks eh mate! Cheers & mabuhay from tropical Philippines!

[@tryordiegarage]

@kcotte59 so homless just like millions of us

[@FranciscoSantos-wf9og]

More interesting is how much more interesting her speech is in a least formal talk. The guys of Triggernometry made an excelent job giving her enough input and enough time to answer. Reading a speech is not giving all the powerful position that she has. Very interesting character.

[@iamisaid2295]

@kcotte59 why will The Right not accept her?

[@iamisaid2295]

@kcotte59 and what does their script say? The left has a lot of prescribed words (many on display in this video) but not sure what the "script" of the Right looks like.

[@lunamatthes2918]

This person is fresh. I want to see more from her. I keep space from those who’s values I don’t agree with, least I offend them or they offend me. I would do so less and maybe experience change if I didn’t have to deal with the perpetually offended. I have experienced change already (not that I fully agree, but I see that the idea might be the best current option) by watching individuals who I agree mostly with, and thinking about their ideas I don’t agree with.

[@just_another32]

yeh it makes sense.

[@gaple1995]

Yeah I have a "friend" that uses this entire political situation to assert their self-righteousness and morality. They don’t actually care about doing anything to help or address the nuances and complexity of the issue. They’re just in to be the self appointed morality police and spew vitriol to make others feel bad. It seems a lot of people deep in woke culture have similar motivations - to make themselves look like saviors (ego stroke) while punishing others through chastising and putting them on the defense (bullying). If you truly had good intentions, you would go about it very differently; you would aim to find a middle ground and understand different points of view. But that's not what a lot of these people want, some treat it as a zero sum game. Conclusion: Strongly considering moving elsewhere. The majority of people I know are like this and I don't really want to spend the rest of my life walking on eggshells for expecting a reasonable and rational discussion (while not being without compassion and understanding). I'm sick of the hysteria and the high horse these people are on with their batons, beating everyone over the head that they pass by.

[@sneezyfido]

Move to a non-western country. They are everywhere

[@gaple1995]

sneezyfido Can’t be everywhere? I’m assuming there are Western European countries that aren’t like this, at least not to this extreme. I do consider myself on the whole politically liberal (per the classic definition, not what it’s been perverted to) so I don’t have an issue with that but I do have an issue with extremism. The UK probably most closely resembles the US in that aspect but I’m hoping the Nordic countries and some of the other “westernized” countries aren’t following lead? Ugh. It has to stop. The US is now the equivalent of the unchecked selfish spoiled child that turns into an entitled hysterical adult with no boundaries.

[@ahhitskatie9094]

Gravity’s Apple Eh, you wouldn’t want to go to Western Europe. You would look politically conservative in comparison to them. The only reason I can say this is because I have family in Germany and visit them (and travel the continent) every couple of years. Europe is slowly crumbling - avoid at all costs.

[@gaple1995]

@Amber Katie Seriously? That's so bizarre to me. I'm not even politically conservative. But I just don't like radical politics, I don't like the way people are approaching this issue here at all.

[@gaple1995]

@@pamelamartin8464 Hahahaha touche! I asked Space X if they had room for one more on the Falcon 9 but unfortunately they were at capacity :(

[@jamesskinnercouk]

I wonder if woke culture is a form of self righteous culture? Great talk, very thoughtful woman.

[@yengsabio5315]

It could be! And potentially, those within the "woke culture" will inevitably think that those who are not with them are the dumb, insensitive, unrighteous ones. Much like, "If you are not with us, then you're against us!" If that's the case, then to my mind, the binary (i.e., woke vs. unwoke) is too simplistic that it diminishes the complexity of identity the speaker has mentioned in this video. To my mind, it's way beyond that binary or dichotomy. I don't know if what I stated here will matter to you. But if you have read it, I thank you for taking the time to read it! Cheers & mabuhay from tropical Philippines!

[@jamesskinnercouk]

Yeng Sabio yes I read your comment, I appreciate thoughtful responses, that’s food for thought thank you.

[@doraymeandyou]

It’s just hypocrisy.

[@owenh1145]

I guess people with an opinion think it's the right opinion (otherwise why have it). What matters is how we treat people with different opinions knowing that we all think we're right, and trying to increase how much room we give each other to find common ground and be able to change our mind if new perspectives move us, and that is done maybe by choosing words carefully and ducking out of lazy labels, and having discussions in a way where no one loses face when agreeing on things.

[@jamesskinnercouk]

Owen H that’s a very good point, I guess it would be wiser to simply listen to all points, imagining what it’s like to harbour said opinions to gain an empathy, and clarity.

[@Shaolin-Jesus]

revolutionary thoughts and dialogue. Tuning into and engaging in such things gives ones meaningless sense of existing an uplifting sense of passion and purpose. Godspeed to you all !

[@k.w.1459]

"wokeness" is one of those buzzwords that annoys the hell out of me.

[@VickyOlanike]

Me too , it’s just a joke of a word. It triggers me and even when I write the word, I always have to put it in inverted commas.

[@icarus313]

Ayishat is sooooo good! I can't believe I'd never heard of her work before until now.

[@Joy-xu9wk]

You’ve got 1 year on me. I just found her a few hours ago!

[@notmyrealpseudonym6702]

@@Joy-xu9wk well you're 3 days ahead of me 😉

[@MsChitterchat]

Zuby and Munira Mirza great too.

[@andarted]

The problem with "wokeness" is simple, that it's a binary assessment. You either are 'woke' or 'asleep', no spectrum of grey, no additional dimensions. This makes it an easy rhetorical weapon. Especially for the alt-right, that always perceive the world through an in-group/out-group paradigm. If 'woke people' are progressiv, then it's a synonym for the 'out-group'. And of course mainstream pop-progressives also use the word to establish an in-group. The in-group doesn't care if you read Karl Marx, it only cares that you wear a 'Che' t-shirt.

[@MarleneChism]

A brilliant thought leader with a thoughtful, compassionate, and unifying message.

[@backyardcluck]

Her essay is wonderful. Share WHY you believe what you believe. Share your life experiences. Don't just launch into your conclusions. It stifles conversation and discredits your position, and can cloud the kind of character you want to show to others.

[@Isabella66Gracen]

To be self-aware is crucial. Love that! I think we live in a time when people are getting more and more afraid just to say what we think, just in case one little tid-bit of thought could bring our world crumbling down around us. People are being fired or cancelled for the most ridiculous of reasons. Wouldn't a discussion of thought go farther than figurative exile?

[@nicholaswhyte1986]

People have been getting fired fart expressing their beliefs on black lives matter principles and gay and trans rights for a longer time than you think. It is only now or sings the past 5 years that this trend has witness some change and yet people are still being fired but just different. If you want workers to not be fired for their beliefs, good or bad or evil, then perhaps you should listen to some of the things that BLM is supporting black having better Union to support worker rights.

[@bobbythewedge5726]

This is one of the most important talks Ive ever seen. So many people need to see this, whether left right, white, black, liberal, conservatives... Ayishats message is so important for us to have a reasonable, rational , constructive, conversation in this day of cancel culture and twitter mobs. I hope that more people see this and this message spreads so we can curb the divisiveness that is so prevalent in the US and the world. Thank you for the brilliant conversation, ladies!

[@MsChitterchat]

Bobby the Wedge Try Zuby on Triggernometry too

[@LaurentumEclectic]

Put this lady in charge of important things ASAP!

[@octizhm]

We already have a person who is doing that,he is our President and if the left would work with him instead of working against him he could get many things accomplished.

[@LaurentumEclectic]

@@octizhm I don't think even Trump can do it all by himself (especially when it comes to issues in the UK and the rest of the world - he needs to worry about his own house first!). We need the best people in the right places; it'll take all the butterflies flapping their wings in the same direction if we want to spin the world around. Just because it seems like Trump's the only one trying to get important things done doesn't mean that's how it's supposed to be!

[@octizhm]

Lewis Lawrence That was my point,the left will not work with President Trump and he cant do this alone with only the conservatives,both parties need to work together to get things done

[@KimberLy-om5es]

This is hands down one of the best videos I have ever watched. Young lady, I am so proud to call you my Sister!! Speak, Speak Loud and if they can't hear you, Speak Louder... this is the message for the people. All people!!

[@rayezx]

"We can't fight intolerance with intolerance" ... We need more voices of reason like this.

[@larawalker4737]

My oh my!!!! Bravo!!!! Ayishat ...you are a wise soul!!! I'm just taken with your thoughts and ideas...I truly hope that more people discover your words. Additionally, thank you to this forum for having this discussion. May more people find empathy and stop demonizing those who don't agree with our own thoughts. THANK YOU!

[@udentalotachukwu7369]

Very brilliant discussion. It is necessary to ensure that those who think, act and talk in absolutes (binary) do not ridicule the progress (real) that exchange of perspectives brings.

[@FRNKNSTNmusic]

Can we replace “educate” with “talk to”?

[@kasvinimuniandy4178]

Yes. I made the mistake before and my friend said it felt very odd. Then I started paying attention. And I realised how shitty it made me feel when people did it to me. I would share links with provocative headlines I do not necessarily agree with and I would be bombarded. I learned my lesson. Definitely did.

[@cynthiagelmirez3738]

I agree with this positive communication and I hope and pray that there is an access to build more connections and create. Very enlightening!

[@MsChitterchat]

Cynthia Gelmirez Absolutely! Munira Mirza, Zuby and Shelby Steele other good people to listen to as well.

[@nicholaswhyte1986]

@@MsChitterchat Munira Mirza is horrible on race and equality issues.

[@Gatheist]

She articulates perfectly what I’ve been thinking and trying to convey to others for some time. A person of great wisdom and humanity ❤️. Another sane voice in the whirlwind. We need more of them to step forward and to give them a wider audience.

[@MissShembre]

Wokeness sounds like being a born again Evangelical religious person (but there's no heaven, only hell.)

[@sbostic08]

😂😂😂😂

[@dyardsale5475]

zinger

[@cassiecaradoc2070]

Honestly, that is 100% correct. As one of those Evangelical religious people, I've noticed that it has many of the same structures... a concept of original sin that taints you regardless of your individual complicity, a concept of personal sin that taints you no matter what else you've done, a concept of judgment for your sins, and so on. But unlike Christianity, there's no promise of salvation... there is only "you have sinned". No matter how good you try to be, "you have sinned". No matter how woke you are, "you have sinned." And no matter what you do to atone, it's never enough. Anyone can be cancelled, and everyone will. There are a lot of parallels between what's going on now and China's "Cultural Revolution". The bar you had to meet in order to be a good party loyalist kept raising, and those who found themselves unable to meet the bar were dragged out into the streets and shot. The teachers, who originally incited their students to rebel quickly found themselves overrun by their students' increasing radicalism, and were among the first to die for not showing sufficient support to the very cause they had pushed their students into. It hasn't reached that level of insanity yet in the west, but I wonder, often, if it might just be a matter of time, or if we can recognize these parallels and pull ourselves back from the brink and back to reasonable dialog between people that disagree with each other without resorting to the madness that has overtaken so many other societies in the past.

[@camsgrammy]

Cassie Caradoc , I agree. I have been listening to John McWhorter and Glen Loury, and they describe things just as you have. They refer to this culture of outrage and pc social justice mentality as the religion of antiracism. I am also a Christian, and was quite zealous as a “newbie”. I see the parallels. As a nearly 60 year old woman who has been a Christian for 40 years, I have learned a lot more grace and understanding in how to see others and express myself. But this “woke” culture does not teach grace or understanding, it only condemns those who fail. My heart hurts and I am weary for what is to come if it doesn’t stop.

[@cattycorner8]

LOL. Like the newly sober alcoholic. A zealot. True Christians understand that forgiveness is the basis of everything , that "Judge not lest ye be judged" is wise and moral. It is at the same time a little staggering yet funny how judgemental these woke folks are, how it is actually the least tolerant of all political stances. I suppose that is Ayishat Akanbi's point.

[@sophiadittmar1505]

I really loved her approach to this topic. It's so critical that we all remain compassionate and quick to listen as sides and ideas clash more and more. We really cannot afford to label someone or hate them for one idea that might hold at the present. People are so multifaceted and complex. What they believe now is a result of their experiences and influences and we must respect that, also acknowledging that people's belief framework changes so much as they travel through life and engage with different environments and people. We cannot come down on them for a belief their past self had, or think that they will never change. People believe what they believe because they want the truth. We are all united in that aspect at least, so we must have compassion for different viewpoints. We are all (ideally) just trying to pursue the truth

[@kmcq692]

GLEANED (paraphrase): Discomfort is where change occurs. Trauma is everywhere, from our collective history to your individual experience, move from outrage to compassion, develop empathy, don't stop with identifying with your own woundedness, process your own trauma too, don't commit to any dogma....how you interact with people who you disagree with is the signal of your character, being wounded doesn't make you morally better. Just change how you interact with other people. Plus...democracy needs us to build it better...Turn "woke" into action for structural change. Use your talents and be focused.

[@jwf2125]

Fantastic summary! So wise. Thank you.

[@Bobashasaurus]

"Are we able to stop cancelling people who remind us of our former selves?"

[@AstroSquid]

The amount of reason here is overwhelming, awesome to hear!

[@gianniclaud]

Honestly, if you have the capacity to watch this in its entirety - it’s sort of a gateway to enlightenment. In a very literal way, all things considered

[@mena94x3]

Not sure how to word this, but I’m hearing statements along the lines of “Just because we have different opinions doesn’t mean you’re stupid” and then a lot of “You’re not intelligent enough for me to be offended by you” . . . Those two things don’t seem to jive to me . . . ‘Don’t make judgments upon / attack people’s character or value,’ then, ‘You made a stupid statement, you’re too ignorant for me to take seriously.’ I like so much of what she’s expressing, but was just struck at this dichotomy I kept hearing.

[@mena94x3]

Dream Dream Serene - ???? Where in my post did I bring race into the issue? I could care less about what race she is and what race I am and what race the people she’s talking about are. Clearly you’re hyper-sensitive comment reveals how much you are focused on other peoples races. I’m truly sorry for you.

[@mena94x3]

Dream Dream Serene - Sorry, I just get the feeling that you completely misunderstood what my OP was about. Your response was way out in left field.

[@charlottecasey]

She put it so eloquently. I am a Conservative but a agreed with her on so much. It's nearly impossible for people on either side to express opinions which are even slightly controversial without being "cancelled". You achieve nothing in cancelling someone. It does not change hearts or minds.

[@jenkuhn516]

I find it fascinating that because her point of view is a liberal lens, everyone is taking it as a slamming of liberal ideals. No. She is saying that empathy is a powerful tool for understanding and shaming/cancelling is cowardly and abusive. There are people on both the left and right who are shaming/cancelling. 'Pray the gay away' camps are a perfect example of far right shaming/cancelling behavior. Same with illegal status means people are 'aliens.' We should ALL listen to this and apply it internally before we point fingers.

[@Tyler_W]

I'm very heartened that it appears that more and more of mainstream society is is getting "woke" about wokeness.

[@TomJohnSmith]

Blown. Away. I would replace "shame" with stigmatize. To stigmatize a behavior without shaming the individual allows room for improvement, growth, and compassion.

[@nickssmirkingrevenge]

Don't choose a side and stick to it. Judge ideas on their merits, not on the basis of whose ideas they are. Accept that people you mostly disagree with and/or dislike can have good ideas. Be 'transactional' in your political views, not tribal.

[@Zeretul90]

I wish more people, in general, could voice their thoughts this well. I don't agree with her perspective, but I like how she didn't call me a bigot in the process of stating her opinion. This approach would help bridge the divide.

[@gregorykollarus8190]

I love Ayishat!!! She is amazing. I believe she could fix the world’s problems with her thoughts, and ideas.

[@mathewhall8019]

This was a pleasure to listen to, and something I feel many people these days NEED to listen to.

[@ataattosbt]

A previous term for “wokeness” is having one’s consciousness raised [into awareness]

[@bbbushhh]

This lady gives me hope....

[@romlyn99]

We quote tweet, more often to tell people they are wrong, than to agree and add supportive ideas. Why is that? Are people living life to find things they disagree with? Is that activism today?

[@kevintaylor7636]

This was a good KZbin suggestion. Would love to sit down and talk with her👍🏽

[@damianeadie510]

Me too. Very incisive thinker.

[@Jesusandmentalhealth]

I am speechless. Her conveyance of truth is almost palpable.

[@barbie3139]

i love this! she is exactly right and incredibly articulate! She needs to be up there with Jordan Peterson in terms of having influence in the culture!!!

[@barbie3139]

@Dream Dream Serene Spoken like a true Woke SJW. I often say speakers are very articulate if i think they are. race plays no part in it. Would you be happy if i withheld doing so if the person is African American? Really?

[@zyx7478]

The woke movement has given me a good reason To ignore much of society. We will only make progress when we stop seeing each other as a category in more of a human being

[@bikesbeersbeats]

This is not a revelation to a silent majority. Most of us already know and feel this way, its just that the idea is being communicated from a "privileged person" and therefore is ignored or cancelled or attached. The fact that this already common perspective is being communicated by a previously disadvantaged person reinforces the point she's making.

[@caraalex7880]

I wonder if Aishat Akanbi has any awareness of the truly wonderful depths of nature wisdom she possesses? Her combination of humility and wisdom is what makes her so charming.

[@jameskassolos4652]

There can be no actual awareness of social justice issues unless you take to time to understand all points of view and open discussions as to why things are as they are and how to change things for the better. This is not what is happening. We have come a long way in the past one hundred years and we still have a way to go but everything has been stalled because all you need today is a thirty second soundbite or information that you cant be bothered to confirm to start breaking windows and gluing yourself to the street. Arguments about global warming take focus away from cleaning up the planet, militant feminism stops families getting a better deal in respect to time for family and work balance, hard left and hard right ideals stop the planet moving forward because the reality is that truth is somewhere near the middle. It has to stop, if we are to move forward this behaviour has to stop.

[@rpboulan]

How though?

[@karenweber52]

YES!!!

[@nimapocalyse9569]

Very well said

[@sneezyfido]

It would stop if enough people glued themselves to the street. All for that idea!

[@gaple1995]

Here here! The middle road is the way

[@brinehound]

"...we do not do things because they are easy but because they are hard." -JFK I am thrilled to hear this human being asking the difficult questions and providing their thoughtful answers. Keep it up!

[@sarahscharnett8233]

Such a rare, refreshing, and honest perspective. Thank you.

[@sw4035]

Starting at 15:20 -16:36 17:20-17:35. Uniting on what we are not, who we are. Only a third through the video but this is soooo good.

[@karenramnath9993]

We would disagree on so much, but we would have some awesome debates, because of our mutual views of respect. 👍🏻 This is how it’s done.

[@lisasimpson8895]

i love the fact that she points out that "wokeness" is present in the right too, how the internet is a verbal landmine and how anger can be productive but dangerous. what a refreshing speech. i really needed that!

[@MsChitterchat]

Watch Ayishat on Triggernometry. Also Munira Mirza, Shelby Steele, Coleman Hughes, John McWhorter and Candace Owens good too.

[@kellielang9867]

Check out Jasmyne Contours, Kevin's corner, Lonnel Harris, Chandler Crump,

[@Rellikan]

@BeerGrills James Lindsay's appreance on Joe Rogan also.

[@jeansroses7249]

thank you to james w. flower, who referred me to ayishat akanbi. I really enjoyed listening to her wit and wisdom regarding the progressive/woke/p.c. culture. It was so refreshing to hear words of common sense, and the idea of compassion rather than control. This is what I believe in too. It's just that, like james describes, my attempts to dialogue with progressives have always resulted in their being pejorative, dismissive, subjective, and unwilling to acccept facts, data, quotes, etc; at the point I introduce them, that's when they "cancel" me. having said that, however, I do believe in the "socratic" questioning method, which unthreateningly helps them to reflect on what they believe; I want them to be accountable for what they say--to be able to support their "sound-bites".

[@jwf2125]

You're welcome, Jeans Roses.

[@lauraallen661]

This is so insightful. I wish everyone would try to understand each other rather than all of this "us vs. them" attitude that so many people have.

[@Dinosaurs_with_laser_guns]

Incredible to grasp how much has happened in only a year since this was released. It’s even more relevant today than it was yesterday.

[@ineedmoneysp]

I had friends that considered themselves woke or Sjws and things use to be fine. We would talk or debate but at some point debates turned into huge arguments with them saying I was going down a dark road and I would say I haven’t changed. I still think critically and rationally and they’d blow me off. Eventually they would say that if I couldn’t see how I was so wrong then they could be my friend and eventually they stopped talking to me for there new sjw friends and talking shit on me which I never gave a shit about. I still watch liberal and conservative news or more read articles. Social justice is good but like anything people have twisted into what it is today with all the hate and toxicity

[@gfan1972]

So I am on the right first off, and am sad I haven't heard of this wonderful person until today. It gives me hope that we can start to have conversations and find common ground and work together, left and right and make something, anything better.

[@jeffwells641]

"Woke is simply the belief in anything you think is correct and progressive." That's the best definition of wokeness I've ever heard.

[@gabrielacarolus3831]

It is so refreshing watching this video, a year later. Also, it is Women's month in South Africa. Love this video.

[@mothboss]

(43:07)On the topic of educating other people and combating "stupidity": I think it's can be dangerous to begin with the assumption that you are in a position to educate anyone. I say this from personal experience: I am not one to confront people directly online or in person but I will go looking for comments that hopefully support "my view," whatever it is. (We all do this, we scroll hoping to see one person make the point we wanted to make and have a big sigh of relief when the point is made), sometimes this is justified but in so many cases I've found that the original author of the post will respond to whomever it is trying to "educate" them, with an insightful and nuanced explanation of their position which utterly overturns the "educator's" presumptions about their position. If you seek to "educate" someone you are already entrenched in your own view. I think it is far more useful to ask the person you would otherwise seek to "educate" for their reasons in supporting their assertions. More often than not they have valid positions for their opinions. Sometimes they don't, and feel free to gently challenge them with your own evidence for your own position at this point. I'm just simply somewhat bothered by the sense of superiority and arrogance that is implicit in this question. Not specific to this woman, but I've heard the same question from many "woke" people. What gives you the right to educate? Why do you suppose that you are right besides the fact that you have existed solely in a space which reinforces your own views and posts only stories which corroborate your worldview? What right do you have to give short shrift to those with life experiences that you believe makes them stupid or privileged (and therefore unworthy of listening to)?

[@dianamaria5784]

WOW!!! Amazing. I take my hat off to this lady. She exudes kindness and compassion.

[@Thisisholly]

Love this lady!!!!! Wokeness is oppressing conversation!

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

Thank you. Thank you. One of the most needed, eloquent and perfectly crafted, contemporary speeches I have ever heard. Such a relief to find I am not the only one with these beliefs. From now on, I am just going to post this as my answer when I feel frustration or despair from the constant 'Us vs. Them' Tsunami of cancellation and outrage. Truly has given me a lot of comfort from the growing knot in my stomach.

[@genevievevavance672]

"Having progressive ideas isn't enough to stop an online mob from canceling you if you misuse words or have a difference of opinion." JK Rowling is now lumped with conservatives because she dared to say that females sharing a common biology and treatment in society should have shared language and that she resented existing language being done away with. Imagine agreeing with someone on 99% of issues then pretending then making cute 1984 style memes that are like "We don't know who wrote Harry Potter. The books just popped into existence."

[@ZZ-qy5mv]

And there seems to be a good number of Trans people who agree with Rowling, so I don't even know who to listen to in support of trans people. Who am I to say which trans voice is more valid? Woke culture likes to say "your feelings are valid," except it's only if it's the "right" feelings.

[@kellyobrien8873]

Oops I meant thumbs up

[@BM-fz9yc]

For real

[@TheMeredith84]

“Anger, especially for women and non white people, is stigmatized as violence, unfeminine and a threat, instead of a normal reaction to abuse.” This hit me so hard. Thank you... finally to hear these words out loud.. THANK YOU

[@MiaogisTeas]

Operative word there is abuse. When questions about or criticism of an idea is treated as abuse, their anger is a symptom of their ideology. My favourite so far is "silence is violence" a term objectively false on all accounts, yet held up as objective truth by those who don't believe in objective truth. They cannot detach their ideas from their identities, and we all pay the price for giving them credence.

[@indisaunders]

What a fantastic woman!! I love what you have to say. Its a perspective that is needed badly right now.

[@BBCEmily]

A year old, but more relevant than ever. Keep speaking, sis. We need more people like you.

[@finkythepoo]

There is more diversity within groups than between them. Beware of anyone who tells you otherwise.

[@finkythepoo]

Dream Dream Serene spoken like a true racist.

[@chrischristodoulidis3339]

What is extremely fun for me and sad at the same time is that when we look closely we can see that identity is such a fluid and multi-layered thing, dependent on oh so many variables of the past and the present. Clinging to that and viewing the world through any perceived identity is like walking around wearing red glasses. It is evident that all things will have a reddish hue. Does that mean they are realy red? It would be really illuminating to look into the Anatta part of the buddhist philosophy.

[@sarahnunez318]

I just think reading 1984 should be a universal staple so that people can understand what happens when you try to police language and how herding and abusing people into agreeing with a set of ideas is never good. Anything worth believing in should be able to withhold scrutiny and criticism.

[@jeansroses7249]

and I think the fact that the blm people refuse that scrutiny and dialogue shows how weak their case is

[@FRNKNSTNmusic]

This is a very thoughtful conversation about media and how we use media. I’ve always felt that humanity was given a new instrument, and we just don’t know how to play it yet. The same way somebody who just got a guitar 10 years ago is not gonna be able to play like somebody who’s had it for 50 years. Same instrument. New mental technology.

[@earlj.d.6285]

20:52 Extremely important for ethnic groups, specifically POC to be vocal with reasoning and logic. Unfortunately, any White person, no matter how sound the logic may be, will only be seen as trying to uphold the norm.

[@georgiabedward6947]

For me It is the total lockdown of conversation when options differ.. They don't even offer you the basic kindness of finishing what you have to say. It is so unreal, we can't even agree to disagree anymore!

[@leihanfoi827]

im offended by people who are offended for other people pretending to be offended and saying there offended and offended when laws are passed saying i cant offend people,soon speech will be against the law

[@just_another32]

you offend me

[@teresasanchez8853]

Wow!!! A privilege to be offended by everythin?! Yes, I know a few that you can't talk to for fear of offending them. So I stoped talking to them compleatly, it was too stressful. One of those is my own sister. It's so sad she lives like that over analyzing every word to find offence behind it. I felt like I was walking on eggs fearing every word and how I I said it. Now I'm free of that I miss her but each day is so much easier. I hope and pray that one day she becomes more tolerant. She would be much happier, then we can talk again.