This was our previous post where we discussed the way underlying tensions and conflicts are exploited by a variety of actors, state and others, for their own, nefarious purposes: 'Problem, reaction, solution' scenarios - don't get played! 26.11.23. The application of a range of divide and rule tactics is one way these tensions are exploited in a bid to keep us at each others throats and deflect our anger away from those who presume to rule over us.
Thanks for this insightful, challenging and worrying piece. Just to add that as someone deeply involved in youth work - even after 'retirement I coordinated an In Defence of Youth work campaign [see https://indefenceofyouthwork.com/2022/12/17/thinking-about-the-past-present-and-future-of-idyw/] - I have been at odds with my colleagues and comrades as to their supine collusion with the State's undemocratic closing down of youth provision during COVID. There was no resistance by the profession or unions, no effort to enter into critical dialogue with young people about what was going on. To add insult to injury almost to a person the youth and community world remains in denial about its complicity, almost pretending it never happened, all the while mouthing rhetoric about democratic practice.
Thanks for this insightful, challenging and worrying piece. Just to add that as someone deeply involved in youth work - even after 'retirement I coordinated an In Defence of Youth work campaign [see https://indefenceofyouthwork.com/2022/12/17/thinking-about-the-past-present-and-future-of-idyw/] - I have been at odds with my colleagues and comrades as to their supine collusion with the State's undemocratic closing down of youth provision during COVID. There was no resistance by the profession or unions, no effort to enter into critical dialogue with young people about what was going on. To add insult to injury almost to a person the youth and community world remains in denial about its complicity, almost pretending it never happened, all the while mouthing rhetoric about democratic practice.
Instead of critical dialogue there was quite simply collusion in the blaming and shaming of "potential granny-killers". Horrendous.