Firstly, I am white so I really want to do my best to not be a shithead when discussing this topic. I was in a conversation with a classmate who has Iranian family regarding the question of reform and revolution.
She pointed to general points about harm reduction and improving conditions now, while I attempted to make the case that revolution is the only way to bring true equality and protection and that the push for liberal reforms must be coincided by militant communist action (dual power ect). I was fairly cautious about my handling of my knowledge of race issues I believe, and I mostly reiterated what I understand as written by black and 3rd world communists: the US (and capitalism) is the direct cause of the issues facing the rest of the world and there are no practical circumstances in which one would be safe from the west without the dissolution of capitalism.
Also in discussions regarding white "communists" (mostly in reference to youtubers and people like that, she brought it up) I asserted that putting effort into the education, agitation, and organization of white people is a mostly lost cause in america, and that the majority of effort should go towards the organization of people of color. I cited this with reference to the BPP's work with rural americans and their firm belief that the black minority power structure must be built first and that the support of white people is secondary.
What would be the best way to go about this in the future. How can I make the case for revolution, as a white person, to a poc? How could I communicate the communist message more clearly?
I think it was Freire that said something like, the oppressor even if they're woke shouldn't preach their knowledge to the oppressed, but instead talk with them and lay the groundwork for them to realize their oppression.
Also remember that PoC are normal people. Don't get hung up placing them on a pedestal and focus only them. BRG had a really good point on his RevLeft appearance about white people working to organize other white people in solidarity with PoC because PoC already know their oppression and are already organizing around that.
Could you clarify what you are intending me to take from that quote?
I will take a look at that episode if I can find it. Poc was mostly the subject of our conversation so I think it may have come off that that is my focus. That was just primarily what we were talking about so that's what I reported.
Basically just be mindful you don't whitesplain PoC's oppression to them and expect them to instantly become communist because of their oppression
If you can stand theory maybe give Pedagogy of the Oppressed a read/listen or just listen to the Red Menace episode on it, might be helpful
Okay, I think I can do that, much thanks . I will try and take a look at that book when I get the chance, it looks very interesting. I am much better at theory and writing than at communication.