In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D and artist/ activist Tef Poe discussed the state of Ferguson, Missouri, 10 years after the death of Michael Brown. Their conversation delved into broader societal shifts and the minimal progress in addressing systemic
Davey D reconnected with Tef Poe to reflect on the decade since the Ferguson uprising. This episode revisits key moments and changes, or the lack thereof, in both Ferguson and the broader American landscape.
Ferguson’s Changes After a Decade
Tef Poe expressed skepticism about real progress in Ferguson, tying its fate to national trends. He remarked, “What has changed in 10 years in Ferguson… is within the city of St. Louis. The city of St. Louis is within the state of Missouri. The State of Missouri belongs to the United States. So when people come asking me what’s changed in 10 years in Ferguson. I say, what has changed in 10 years in the entire United States.” His comments underline the interconnectedness of local and national issues.
Disillusionment with High-Profile Advocacy
A significant part of their conversation addressed the inefficacy of advocacy at the United Nations and the White House. Reflecting on his experiences, Tef Poe shared, “I found myself dealing with a lot of different emotions when we were there, because I just knew we were kind of being played with… There was a portion of the day that I had walked away from the United Nations delegates.” This segment highlights the frustrations with international and national systems that fail to effect change.
Cultural and Political Shifts
Tef Poe criticized the way societal changes have influenced public discourse and attitudes towards race and politics. He lamented the rise of fascism and the degradation of meaningful dialogue, stating, “America itself has changed immensely for the worse… it went even further than I thought it could ever go in terms of blatant fascism.”
The Ongoing Struggle in Ferguson
The interview also touched on personal grief and community struggles, discussing the deaths and incarcerations of activists without justice. Tef Poe’s raw insights shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by communities like Ferguson.
Conclusion
Tef Poe’s discussion with Davey D serves as a powerful critique of the systemic issues that persist a decade after the Ferguson protests. Their conversation emphasizes the need for genuine systemic change and offers a sobering reminder of the hurdles that remain.
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