I’m in the middle, but I chose to attempt a balance between paying attention to legislation and the general “temperature”, and being a parent and ally. Like Ben, I do not suggest following every legislative detail unless you are well-prepared to do so - or need to for work or volunteering. And then take proactive self care and breaks!
And I agree that it is best practices for writers to make it clear in what stage a bill is at, so readers can decide to skip reading an initial bill (introduced) if they like.
I read Ben. I read Erin. I follow many queer writers, reporters, outlets, orgs, bloggers, and artists. plus lawyers, news, culture, etc. Each has their own style and tone. (And there are an overwhelming number of independent sources and organizations at this point. Consolidation, anyone?)
Some folks may wish to only engage when a law is passed, and figure out what to do. Whether in at the beginning, middle, or end, minding one’s well-being and that of your family and friends is important.
And, as devil’s advocate, I will also add that I find over-glowing positivity equally irksome. As Ben says, there is a reality to be faced here. And even if “only” 4 anti-trans laws are passed after a hundred or so are introduced during any one state’s legislative session, the scope and intention of some of the bills being passed into law this year - after years of anti-equality erosion - are especially painful.
I don’t have an answer. I think, as I do about most things now at the ripe age of 60+, that the answer is on a spectrum, individually made, according to the circumstances and purpose of the moment. I actually like knowing what men and women of a certain ilk are pre-filing - it gives me a heads-up as to potential themes and through lines coming up in legislatures - but, as Ben says, this is hardly a hobby most folks need to take up.
These are tremendously difficult times. We don’t need doom and gloom, for sure. We do need to understand what is happening and how we may be and are affected.
As always, I appreciate you. The beginning of this year was constant dread and depression for me. I was drowning in it. Unable to work. Now I’m learning to sit with headlines for a day or two before reacting. It’s hard—very hard. But it helps see through the BS the news throws at us and gives me clarity. I rely on indie journalists and writers like yourself to make sense of it all too. So thank you. Deeply. ❤️❤️
I’m in the middle, but I chose to attempt a balance between paying attention to legislation and the general “temperature”, and being a parent and ally. Like Ben, I do not suggest following every legislative detail unless you are well-prepared to do so - or need to for work or volunteering. And then take proactive self care and breaks!
And I agree that it is best practices for writers to make it clear in what stage a bill is at, so readers can decide to skip reading an initial bill (introduced) if they like.
I read Ben. I read Erin. I follow many queer writers, reporters, outlets, orgs, bloggers, and artists. plus lawyers, news, culture, etc. Each has their own style and tone. (And there are an overwhelming number of independent sources and organizations at this point. Consolidation, anyone?)
Some folks may wish to only engage when a law is passed, and figure out what to do. Whether in at the beginning, middle, or end, minding one’s well-being and that of your family and friends is important.
And, as devil’s advocate, I will also add that I find over-glowing positivity equally irksome. As Ben says, there is a reality to be faced here. And even if “only” 4 anti-trans laws are passed after a hundred or so are introduced during any one state’s legislative session, the scope and intention of some of the bills being passed into law this year - after years of anti-equality erosion - are especially painful.
I don’t have an answer. I think, as I do about most things now at the ripe age of 60+, that the answer is on a spectrum, individually made, according to the circumstances and purpose of the moment. I actually like knowing what men and women of a certain ilk are pre-filing - it gives me a heads-up as to potential themes and through lines coming up in legislatures - but, as Ben says, this is hardly a hobby most folks need to take up.
These are tremendously difficult times. We don’t need doom and gloom, for sure. We do need to understand what is happening and how we may be and are affected.
Wonderful advice, thank you 🙏
As always, I appreciate you. The beginning of this year was constant dread and depression for me. I was drowning in it. Unable to work. Now I’m learning to sit with headlines for a day or two before reacting. It’s hard—very hard. But it helps see through the BS the news throws at us and gives me clarity. I rely on indie journalists and writers like yourself to make sense of it all too. So thank you. Deeply. ❤️❤️
Nice to hear a voice of reason, I really appreciate your work!
Thank you, Ben. 🫶