By Matt Underwood So when the supreme court rules, women’s wombs are jurisdiction of the federal government. You all clap and cheer along? But when they rule, the federal government has jurisdiction over a national border. You all boo and threaten to secede? It’s almost as if you don’t care about “law and order.”
These are the thoughts that have been on my mind lately as I observe the conflicting reactions when it comes to different Supreme Court rulings. On one hand, we see the celebration and support when the court upholds laws that restrict a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body. But on the other hand, we witness outrage and threats of secession when the court rules in favor of federal jurisdiction over our national borders.
It’s a stark contrast that reveals a deeper issue at play: the selective concern for “law and order.” When it comes to women’s reproductive rights, those who oppose them seem perfectly content with the federal government asserting its authority and infringing upon personal autonomy. But when it comes to matters of immigration and border control, those same individuals suddenly decry the overreach of the federal government and threaten to defy its authority.
This inconsistency raises questions about the true motivations behind these reactions. Are they really about upholding the principles of “law and order”? Or are they driven by personal beliefs and ideologies that are selectively applied depending on the issue at hand?
As someone who has grown up in Texas, I’ve seen the struggles of those who fight for progressive change in a predominantly conservative state. The obstacles to voting, the gerrymandering, the voter suppression – it’s all part of a larger system that makes it incredibly difficult for left-leaning Texans to have their voices heard.
But it’s not just about voting. It’s about challenging the existing power structures and pushing for change at all levels of government. It’s about running for local offices, becoming active participants in the political process, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.
I understand the frustration and exhaustion that comes with constantly fighting against a system that seems rigged against us. But giving in to apathy and not participating in the political process only perpetuates the status quo. If we truly want to see change, we have to be willing to put in the effort, even when it feels futile.
And yes, there are real barriers in the way – the removal of polling places, the restrictions on voting by mail, the difficulty of obtaining state ID in urban areas. These are all deliberate tactics aimed at suppressing the votes of certain communities. But instead of being discouraged, we should be even more motivated to overcome these obstacles and show up to vote.
It’s not enough to simply complain about the system. We have to actively work to dismantle it and create a more fair and just society. That means engaging in local politics, advocating for voting rights, and supporting candidates who align with our values.
So, when it comes to the issue of “law and order,” let’s not be hypocrites. Let’s recognize that our actions – or lack thereof – have consequences. Let’s fight for the rights of women to make decisions about their own bodies, while also advocating for fair and just immigration policies. Let’s show up and vote, even when the odds are stacked against us.
Change is possible, but it requires our active participation. We can’t afford to sit back and hope for a better future – we have to fight for it. So let’s roll up our sleeves, get involved, and make our voices heard. Because if we don’t, then we can’t complain about the state of our society. It’s time to truly care about “law and order” and work towards a more equitable future for all.