The events of this month have ripped away the last tatters of the illusion that the United States is a nation interested in protecting its citizens. As we watch the shocking misuse of power in Portland and elsewhere from afar, we must not forget that the Prison Industrial Complex is continuing to expand on this side of the Atlantic as well. As we see American political figureheads spread misinformation about the pandemic time and again, we must not forget that, behind the veneer of wartime spirit, the UK government too has been fatally neglectful in its response to crisis.

Meanwhile, with anti-racism at the forefront of public discussion, there is important work to be done in challenging the double standards of corporations, media and individuals. Corporations may tweet the slogans, but do they treat their Black and Brown workers as if their lives and dignity actually matter? The film industry may be delivering more pictures about the struggles of the oppressed, but do they highlight histories of creative resistance to that oppression, or erase them? White Brits may dance to the music of Black cultures, but do they add their voices to the anti-racist struggles so much of that music was born out of, or remain silent?

Likewise, as Pride season comes to an end, we've seen the same double standards and double speak from local authorities, businesses, and political organisations and institutions. Defunding the police and uplifting community-based care and welfare also - still - involves removing police presence from schools, Pride events, and sponsorships. Especially at a time when powerful media and arts presences use their platform to target and harm people in the trans* community.

As we move through this summer of myriad injustices, we must continue to educate ourselves and learn from each other, so that we know when to speak out ourselves, when to amplify the voices of others, and when to act directly in defence of our communities. Independent, accountable media and intelligent, challenging art are as important now as ever.

---

Here at The Norwich Radical, we continue to play our part in the work of education and resistance. We are looking to further grow our team in the coming months, and we will be opening recruitment for new editors soon - look for details on social media and in next month's newsletter.

Until then, solidarity.

The Norwich Radical Editorial Team