The girlies are leading the nominations in all categories for the 2025 Grammy Awards.
We all know music and art can do things for a community or culture, especially during a time of crisis. While it is fun and important to celebrate the nominations, there is a dark cloud over the women in America right now. At the rate we are moving, women and members of any minority, especially the LGBTQ+ individuals, will effectively be disenfranchised from having rights at the state or federal level. With women apparently at the forefront of our cultural expression in regard to music, from Beyonce to Chappel Roan we are inevitably going to be heard. This also shows people who make up our communities' in fact care about what women have to say, and that the experiences being sung over a danceable beat are incredibly relatable. That sense of community is needed now more than ever. There seems to be a disconnect however, from us, and those representing our communities in government. Are the grammy nominations a distraction in media or a facade for the true nature of how things are? I have to argue, yes.
Let us switch our perspective to across the world. New laws in Afghanistan show the end result of a “gender apartheid” social system. Their laws prevent women from speaking to one another during prayer, instead insisting that they utilize hand gestures. They are also barred from singing, reciting poetry, or reading in public. In some provinces of Afghanistan, Women cannot speak on television or radio broadcasts. This is one of many cultures that systematically utilizes religion and other cultural standards to disable women of power or voice in their institutionalized patriarchy. The United States theoretically prides itself on a diversity of religious practices, and freedoms. Although, with the new placements of power after the 2024 election, our education, healthcare, and media systems are well on their way to be indoctrinated by misogynistic motivations being presented as religiously and morally pure. Those in power want to nullify the experience of women for the capital gain of men. There have been so many lives of women lost around the world due to this negative discourse surrounding the dichotomy of gender and power struggle.
Overall, the experience of women in modern America is a complex and multifaceted one. By understanding the historical context, acknowledging the advancements made, and addressing ongoing challenges, our society can work towards a more inclusive and equal future for all. It is truly up to the collective consciousness of women in all cultures of the United States to come together and be the support we need whether it is at work, school etc. Keep pushing for gender representation in the media, government, and any industry we can. We must be the educators, caretakers, and example for the girls who have a lot to fight for. This is time to make personal connections to other women and people in your life who genuinely care about human rights and find solace in conversations that cannot be shared maybe as publicly as before. Remember, the revolution will not be televised and to stay strong.