"抑圧された人々の伝統は私たちが生きている緊急事態が例外ではなく規則であることを教えています"

This quote speaks to the idea that what we often perceive as extraordinary circumstances of injustice or crisis are, in fact, the norm for marginalized or oppressed communities. It’s saying, in a nutshell, that for those who are oppressed, living in a constant state of emergency isn’t a deviation from the norm—it’s their everyday reality.

To unpack this a bit, think about history. This notion isn’t new. Consider the countless examples where certain groups have consistently faced systemic challenges and dangers while others might perceive these instances as rare or extreme. The idea here is not just about recognizing these crises but understanding that they are deeply embedded in the very structures and traditions of society.

For instance, take the Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1960s. Many people viewed the brutal repression of peaceful protests and the systemic racism exposed during that period as a shocking state of emergency. However, for Black Americans, those conditions were simply a continuation of the oppression they had faced for centuries. The violence and discrimination weren’t new—they were daily experiences.

Now, let’s look at a real-life example. Imagine living in Flint, Michigan, during the water crisis. In 2014, the city switched its water supply to the Flint River as a cost-saving measure. Residents soon discovered that this water was contaminated with lead. For the people of Flint, the idea of living in a crisis was not an exception but a harsh daily reality. They couldn’t just turn on the tap without worrying about poisoning their children. This wasn’t a one-off disaster—it was an ongoing state of emergency that highlighted their long-term neglect and marginalization.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by questioning your assumptions about what’s “normal” and what’s an exception. When you hear about a crisis affecting a particular community, whether it’s racial violence, poverty, or any form of systemic injustice, don’t just see it as an isolated incident. Recognize it might be part of a broader pattern. Educate yourself on the historical context and the day-to-day realities of those affected. And crucially, listen to the voices of the oppressed—they’re the ones living through these emergencies.

Think of it like this: imagine you’re at a coffee shop, and your friend starts telling you about their struggles at work. They mention how unfairly they’re treated, how they never get the recognition they deserve, and how they’re constantly stressed. If you think this is just a bad week for them, you might miss the bigger picture. But if you realize that these issues are their everyday reality, you’ll understand the depth of their plight. You’d likely respond with more empathy and perhaps even take action to help them, rather than dismissing their experiences as 'just a rough patch'.

In essence, this quote is a call to shift our perspective. It asks us to recognize that what seems like a sudden emergency to some is, in many cases, a continuous reality for others. By acknowledging this, we can better understand the ongoing struggles of marginalized communities and work towards creating more equitable and just systems.