Fiyero: “Why is it that every time I see you, you’re causing some sort of commotion?”
Elphaba: “I don’t cause commotions, I am one.”
Fiyero: “That’s for sure.”
Elphaba: “Oh! So you think I should just keep my mouth shut! Is that what you’re saying?”
Fiyero: “No, I’m …”
Elphaba: “Do you think I want to be this way? Do you think I want to care this much? Don’t you know how much easier my life would be if I didn’t?”
I was fortunate enough to go with my best friend and my eldest to see a late night viewing of Wicked last night. I wasn’t expecting social commentary. I wasn’t expecting to be moved.
But I was.
For all three of us, it felt incredibly close to home.
Wicked is a poignant and moving reminder of the political climate and the state of mass incarceration in our country. Of how challenging and sometimes dangerous it is to be an advocate for social justice and human rights.
Just like The Wizard, played in the movie by Jeff Goldblum, there are most definitely inept people in power who want to put people in cages for their own benefit. As much as I wish it were, it’s not fiction.
It’s not even anything new; mass incarceration has been brewing since the 1970’s, when mental health facilities were shut down. People were moved to other “cages.”
Political players would rather demonize people than admit they are wrong or be humane.
As the Wizard says, nothing brings people together like a manufactured villain; someone to blame and redirect their ire at. To take the heat off of what they have done.
It’s never easy to speak out; it comes with a price. Believe me; I know all too well.
There are penalties because the people who benefit from the status quo can’t handle or afford being called out or held accountable.
In spite of this, it’s our responsibility as advocates to speak out. Even when it’s scary, and when it feels like it’s too much.
Find your courage and go defy gravity.
