Disarming the Attack on Empathy
The topic of empathy has been swirling around in my head for months, so much so that it's the theme of my most recent collection in the shop (DON'T STOP CARING!).
At first glance, the entire argument seems so random and ridiculous that it's tempting to ignore it altogether. However, there are a few reasons why opponents of justice are dedicated to discrediting empathy, and they all boil down to a common thread: empathy costs us something–and, selfishly–many of us would rather not pay the price.
1. Empathy disrupts oppressive systems.
Injustice and abuse thrive in darkness. Empathy turns on the light. When someone is sharing their lived experience with you, empathy doesn't just listen–it becomes a witness. It fosters a connection that interrupts traditions of silence, cover-ups, and denial.
2. Empathy creates advocates.
When you hear and empathize with someone else's story, you're not just a keeper of secrets or a listening ear. You have the power to take action on their behalf, bringing truth to the light and becoming an agent of change. Empathy mobilizes truth-tellers who become threats to a culture of harm.
3. Empathy strengthens communities.
No more sitting in silence and isolation. Empathy is like a search party with flashlights, spread out in all directions, tracking down the marginalized and mistreated. Empathy picks you up, throws a blanket over you, and gently guides you back to the safety of those who love you and want to share your burdens.
You see, empathy is costly to those who benefit from your apathy.
When you're told to believe or accept hateful rhetoric about your neighbor, empathy reminds you of your shared humanity.
When news leaks of an abusive leader and a system of accomplices who cover up the harm, empathy blows a whistle.
Disruptors. Advocates. Truth-tellers. No wonder we're a threat to what lies in the dark.
Empathy is not your enemy. It's a signal that your heart is still beating with a desire to do what is right, lovely, and just. Keep listening.
Happy you're here,
Dani
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