In early June, shortly after the tragic killing of George Floyd, a disturbing trend emerged that left many questioning the motivations behind such acts. Have you ever had to clean up a mess left by someone else? More specifically, have you ever been tasked with cleaning adult messes from public monuments? While I haven’t, it appears that many marginalized individuals, including custodians and community members, have found themselves in that unfortunate position, once again tasked with rectifying the actions of others.
Just weeks after Floyd’s death, the film “The Assistance” became a talking point, reminding us of the historical reliance on marginalized communities to support the dominant culture. The narrative revolves around a young white woman documenting the struggles of African American maids in the 1960s. This film serves as a stark reminder that the contributions of Black and Brown individuals have often gone unnoticed or unappreciated throughout history.
During President Obama’s time in office, we were reminded that the White House, often referred to as “The People’s House,” was constructed by enslaved people. Michelle Obama eloquently touched on this in her 2016 speech, emphasizing the progress made and how this country has been built on the backs of those who were oppressed. The White House, built in 1792, and Capitol Hill, constructed a year later, both owe their existence to the labor of enslaved Africans. Ironically, these institutions, designed to serve all Americans, often perpetuate systemic inequalities.
The events of January 6th highlighted the ongoing struggle for equality. The aftermath of the Capitol riots revealed extensive damage, including the shocking sight of feces smeared on walls and statues. This was more than just a physical act of vandalism; it was a manifestation of deeper societal issues. A reporter noted the chaos and violence that led to multiple deaths during this uprising, indicating a clear disconnect between the ideals these institutions represent and the actions of those who stormed them.
The defacement observed during the riots serves as a grim reminder of the societal division that persists. The individuals involved, waving flags and chanting slogans, felt entitled to reclaim a version of America that has never fully belonged to them. The mess left behind is symbolic of the ongoing struggle against white privilege, which continues to obstruct meaningful progress in society.
This situation showcases a troubling reality: marginalized communities often find themselves cleaning up the remnants of chaos created by others. The feces on the statues represent a physical reminder of the historical injustices that have plagued this country since its inception. Once again, people of color are expected to bear the burden of rectifying a mess they did not create.
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Summary:
The defacement of statues and walls during the Capitol riots serves as a disturbing reminder of the ongoing societal divide and the historical injustices faced by marginalized communities. The actions of those involved reflect a troubling entitlement to reclaim a narrative that has never truly belonged to them. Meanwhile, people of color continue to find themselves in the role of cleaning up the mess left by others, highlighting the persistent issues of privilege and inequality in America.