Diddy Do It? Does It Even Matter…
When it comes to hip hop and politics, there’s no denying the cultural impact both have on our society. And in 2023, Diddy has been the center of conversation again, raising the inevitable question: what are they trying to distract us from this time? It’s almost become a reflex—whenever a major celebrity scandal hits, the community starts wondering if there’s something bigger at play behind the scenes. While it’s true that distractions are a part of media cycles, we need to be clear on what matters most: the elections.
It's obvious that the presidential election is looming large, but that’s not the only thing we should be paying attention to. Sure, the wealthy elite may have their own agenda, perhaps with moves that won’t directly touch the lives of the general population. But what will directly affect our day-to-day lives are the laws, policies, and propositions being voted on at local, state, and federal levels.
In a world where celebrity news dominates headlines, it’s critical not to lose sight of the decisions being made in the voting booths. The outcome of these elections shapes the future of communities, impacts family welfare, and alters individual rights. Too often, the focus is narrowly placed on the presidency, but what about the legislation that will determine education reform, housing policies, or criminal justice? These are the changes that have a real, tangible influence on our lives.
Take, for example, laws on housing and rent control—these affect where and how we live, especially for working-class people. Criminal justice reform, healthcare policies, public school funding—these are issues that hit home far more than a distant scandal involving a celebrity, no matter how big they may be.
The truth is, the conversations we have about elections, especially when it comes to local laws, are our power. It’s easy to get swept up in the noise of entertainment gossip, but those headlines won’t help us if crucial laws that impact education, wages, or civil rights slip by unnoticed.
In 2023, there’s no room for complacency. With laws on reproductive rights, criminal justice, tax policy, and labor rights up for discussion in various states, our attention needs to shift back to the ballot box. We have to take note of what's up for a vote in our communities and understand how these decisions will shape our future.
It’s crucial to ask yourself: what matters most to you, your family, and your community? And what are you doing to make sure those interests are protected? Voting isn’t just about participating in the process—it’s about wielding influence over the policies that shape the everyday realities of your life.
Let’s not get sidetracked.