Call a Genocide a War

In today's media-driven world, where headlines often blur the truth and political narratives twist in the hands of power, it's vital to pause and critically assess the information being fed to us. A recent controversy has arisen around a politician's description of a significant conflict, labeling what some perceive as genocide simply as war. This comes even after Israel has openly admitted to the targeted killing of the leader of Hamas. The discourse around such issues demands our attention and discernment.

When they call genocide a war, when they minimize the cries of the lost to mere casualties of conflict, we find ourselves at a crossroads. It's in these moments of obfuscation that we must stand firm, speak the unfiltered truth, and advocate for those whose voices have been silenced by deceit and political maneuvering.

The power of language cannot be underestimated. When leaders openly admit to certain deeds yet cloak them in softer, more palatable names, the responsibility falls on us to remember and to call the horror by its true name. This isn't merely about semantics; it's about acknowledging the reality of the situation and the impact it has on countless lives.

Injustice often hides in plain sight, masquerading as political strategy or necessary action. Yet, our voices, when unified and unwavering, can pierce through the darkness of these misleading words. By refusing to accept euphemisms and half-truths, we uphold the dignity of those affected and ensure that their stories are heard and remembered.

Let us not forget the individuals behind the statistics and headlines. In our hearts, let us keep a space for justice to find its way. As we navigate this complex world, let's commit to seeking the truth, amplifying the voices of the oppressed, and holding accountable those who would prefer to blur the lines between war and genocide. Through vigilance and empathy, we can contribute to a more just and truthful narrative.

when headlines blur the truth 

and words twist in the hands of power 

when they call genocide a war 

and brush aside the cries of the lost 

it's in these moments 

we must hold our ground 

speak the unfiltered truth 

for those silenced by deceit 

when leaders admit to deeds 

yet cloak them in softer names 

it's up to us to remember 

to call the horror by its name 

injustice hides in plain sight 

under the guise of political play 

but our voices, they can shine 

through the darkness of their words 

so let us not forget 

the lives behind the stories 

and in our hearts, keep a space 

for justice to find its way

In love and solidarity 

Aspen Greenwood