We’re trying to find a cure for AIDS, because OH MY GOD, AFRICA and everything, but what about the diseases we already have cures for? Malaria? You know? Other stuff?
I think the truth is, the whole “cure for AIDS” thing is easy for privileged Americans to endorse and that’s why we’re so into it. It’s easy for a few reasons: 1) few of us are disease researchers, so we don’t actually have to DO anything, except maybe donate a little cash, or buy a red ipod 2) it pumps up our economy 3) in the end, the “cure” will only be available to rich white people anyway.
In other words, it’s exactly the kind of “help” that privileged people love.
You know, like writing self-righteous blog posts.
Hey now, this is a good blog post! Not everyone has this perspective. You’re helping to raise consciousness among your readers, and that can help lead them to action. You know what I mean? If no one complains that red iPods aren’t doing any good, then people will keep buying them and feeling like they’ve solved the problem. Every little bit counts, in my book.
Hi Ari!
That’s true, it probably helps a little. I’m just trying to keep in mind that there’s always non-blog activism out there waiting for me too.