taking it to the streets

An idiom, with figurative and literal meanings; to actively commune with society while promoting the resources of intellect, creativity, entrepreneurialism, and democratic processes to promote positive change, self actualisation, and solidarity. This quintessentially American idiom represents the spirit of grassroots activism and the powerful spirit of the people when mobilized and when participating with our communities. It is figurative language representing the mobilization of peoples to create change from within the community. It functions as an affirmation of sovereignty and empowerment in the face of marginalization, institutional oppression, and prejudice. As the fifth estate is the foundation of democracy and ensures the intrinsic spirit, voice, and actions of We the people; the participant and the witness alike may literally “take it to the streets.”

Grassroots change is when people are effectively, taking it to the streets; as Anthropologist Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Lyrics by The Doobie Brothers, include,

“ You don't know me but I'm your brother
I was raised here in this living Hell
You don't know my kind in your world
Fairly soon, the time will tell
You, telling me the things you're gonna do for me
I ain't blind and I don't like what I think I see
Takin' it to the streets
Takin' it to the streets
Takin' it to the streets
Take this message to my brother
You will find him everywhere
Wherever people live together
Tied in poverty's despair
You, telling me the things you're gonna do for me
I ain't blind and I don't like what I think I see
Takin' it to the streets”

by Shazamsh March 1, 2022

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