Embracing Liberalism in a Polarized World

Growing up with a Cuban mom who was raised in Castro’s communist Cuba, being a liberal or a Democrat was not just an option; it was a necessity. To deny these beliefs was grounds for something far worse—an ass beating. As my mother would say, 'All 5 feet of her would have went up to Columbia University with her chancla and wrecked shop on all those trust fund white boys. Fuck the NYPD, fear the chancla!'

Unlike my mother, I am not labeled a liberal; I am a liberal. I live, act, read, think, learn, empathize, and vote in ways that align with progressive ideals. Despite the emergence of 'Christo-fascism' in the modern Republican Party and the relentless trampling of constitutional rights, rule of law, and democracy under its guise, I hold onto my liberal identity with pride.

I understand that the current political climate is incomprehensible to those whose minds have been handed over to entities like QAnon or Fox News. They are propagandists who seek to separate you from your hard-earned money under the guise of countering a non-existent 'liberal threat.' Their most impressive feat has been convincing people to fear and hate others while stripping you of your money, patriotism, and freedom.

The Significance of Liberalism

Liberalism is more than a political label; it is a philosophy that embraces a forward-looking perspective. It is the ability to appreciate and embrace people unlike yourself, and a deep concern for what happens to others. For me, it is a badge of honor that I wear freely. I believe in progress, change, and the continuous broadening of knowledge and understanding.

It is not surprising that in unpleasant or boring conversations, labels are exchanged and often used to categorize people. However, in my social circles, such labeling is rare. I avoid these types of conversations and, in turn, I am rarely labeled. The point is that labels often serve to divide rather than unite, and they are not always beneficial or accurate.

The Duality of Labels

The word 'liberal' itself is rich in meaning. According to the dictionary:

Liberal: Open to new behavior or opinions and willing to discard traditional values.

Liberal: Of education concerned mainly with broadening a person's general knowledge and experience rather than with technical or professional training.

Liberal person: A person of liberal views.

On the other hand, the word 'conservative':

Conservative: Holding to traditional attitudes and values and cautious about change or innovation, especially in politics.

Conservative: Averse to change and holding to traditional values and attitudes.

Conservative: Reactionary, rightist, diehard.

No matter the label, I wear the badge of liberalism with pride. I am proud of my progressive views and the role they play in fostering a society that values diversity, empathy, and justice.