"Give the crack to the kids who the hell cares
one less hungry mouth on the welfare
First ship 'em dope & let 'em deal the brothers"
TUPAC SHAKUR
In the last few decades, Argentina has undergone several crises that have broadened the gap between the haves and the have-nots. Indifference, ignorance and hypocrisy tend to stir up hatred among social classes. Despite its attempts, the Government fail to tackle poverty successfully. In the meantime, citizens watch from their sofas.
To begin with, our society is far from being egalitarian. Our Constitution claims that the State will guarantee the fulfillment of citizens’ basic needs. However, education, proper nourishment and housing are usually neglected by most governments. Priorities always seem to be elsewhere. On top of it, as soon as a welfare policy is designed, many criticise the leaders in powere since, to their minds, laziness is fostered.
In addition, drug abuse is widely spread in our society. While most people would have difficulty finding as well as affording drugs, PACO - the most popular substance among the poor - is said to be readily available. Very young teenagers become addicted to this inexpensive version of cocaine which destroys them both physically and psychologically.
Furthermore, violence affects everyone's life. The media is obsessed with crimes. Newscasters maintain that our country’s main disease is connected with the high murder and theft rates. Trust in fellow citizens is undermined. Racial profiling is fostered. What many seem to ignore is the fact that the less privileged are constantly shown a lifestyle they cannot afford, a world where they do not belong. Is this not violent as well?
Finally, ignorance and discrimination do nothing to society but reinforce its weaknesses. The more you listen to the news, to common citizens or even to your friends, the more certain you are that few of them are looking forward to opening their minds and hearts. Little hope is left since everyone seems to demand solutions from others rather than actually doing something themselves.
To sum up, the current state of affairs is rather worrying. What is more, the level of decay in our moral standards and values is such that it is hard to imagine any improvement. As I see it, we should all face our fears and prejudices and ask ourselves what we are doing wrong and how we can contribute to a better tomorrow.
To begin with, our society is far from being egalitarian. Our Constitution claims that the State will guarantee the fulfillment of citizens’ basic needs. However, education, proper nourishment and housing are usually neglected by most governments. Priorities always seem to be elsewhere. On top of it, as soon as a welfare policy is designed, many criticise the leaders in powere since, to their minds, laziness is fostered.
In addition, drug abuse is widely spread in our society. While most people would have difficulty finding as well as affording drugs, PACO - the most popular substance among the poor - is said to be readily available. Very young teenagers become addicted to this inexpensive version of cocaine which destroys them both physically and psychologically.
Furthermore, violence affects everyone's life. The media is obsessed with crimes. Newscasters maintain that our country’s main disease is connected with the high murder and theft rates. Trust in fellow citizens is undermined. Racial profiling is fostered. What many seem to ignore is the fact that the less privileged are constantly shown a lifestyle they cannot afford, a world where they do not belong. Is this not violent as well?
Finally, ignorance and discrimination do nothing to society but reinforce its weaknesses. The more you listen to the news, to common citizens or even to your friends, the more certain you are that few of them are looking forward to opening their minds and hearts. Little hope is left since everyone seems to demand solutions from others rather than actually doing something themselves.
To sum up, the current state of affairs is rather worrying. What is more, the level of decay in our moral standards and values is such that it is hard to imagine any improvement. As I see it, we should all face our fears and prejudices and ask ourselves what we are doing wrong and how we can contribute to a better tomorrow.
Very well-written piece! Congrats, Silvina!
ResponderEliminarAnalía