During this autumn break, I have been pondering over falling leaves and the state of our democracies, discovering poems like the one by June Jordan (1936 –2002) below.

Calling on All Silent Minorities

HEY

C’MON
COME OUT

WHEREVER YOU ARE
WE NEED TO HAVE THIS MEETING
AT THIS TREE

AIN’ EVEN BEEN
PLANTED
YET


June Jordan
—

Meanwhile, the world goes on, and we hold our breaths for the upcoming national elections in the Netherlands. Things seem rather futile, but there are glimmers of hope. Progressive seeds are being (re)planted: may their trees grow, if not this time, maybe next.

I know ‘politics’ is and should be much vaster than elections. We make political choices constantly: with the things we buy, the money we donate, the schools we send our children to, the opinions we express. Change really won’t come from government alone, to make alternative futures, we need citizens, entrepreneurs, activists, scientists, teachers, artists, journalists, and many more.

But still, party politics is necessary. However glorious it was to witness 80.000-250.000 Dutch people take to the streets in the past years to protest against the climate crisis and against genocide… such indignation must also translate into a public sector willing to listen and push for justice and sustainability.

All this can only happen if we support political parties that make that possible.  We need to support them not only through voting, also by taking a clear stance, donating money and time, becoming a member, volunteering, and speaking out.

And so I am “Calling on all silent majorities, wherever you are. C’mon. Come out”. Are you supporting a political party that is (most) alligned with your values? If not, what are you waiting for? If not now, when?