What it means to wear a safety pin

Why are people wearing safety pins?

 

While they may be reviving the punk rock fashion or simply have had a wardrobe malfunction, chances are that they are actually being a decent human being.

It started with the overt racism of "brexit", those who were disgusted in this racism chose to show their solidarity with the persecuted minorities by wearing safety pins. 

After the unbelievable (and rigged if Donald Trump is to be believed) election of Donald Trump to the US presidency, the mighty pin was taken up again, but this time the pin had renewed power.

This is no mere slactivism!

Those who take on the responsibility of wearing the safety pin take an oath, they will speak up against "casual" racism, homophobia,sexism, and transphobia. They will intercede when necessary to protect religious minority's from insult or harm. 

A victim of bigotry will see the pin and know that the wearer is someone they can turn to for help, from sitting with them on the train to calling for help when they are assaulted. 

Strangely, I have already seem some criticise this movement, i can only say that there were definitely times in my life where people could have spoken up, could have helped me stand against religious discrimination and homophobia, but didn't. Any movement that means there are more people standing up for the oppressed must be a good thing. 

Sometimes we all need a helping hand there is no shame or embarrassment in needing, asking for or offering that helping hand.

It is also a reminder to the wearer that we have a responsibility to help the persecuted when needed and to stand with the oppressed against the oppressors.

Its also the perfect time to do more, with the racists in Australia celebrating Trumps "win". We need our allies on deck now more then ever. 

Some sources:

Trump confession?
http://www.bbc.com/news/election-us-2016-37673797

Hanson celebrates fascism?

 http://www.news.com.au/national/politics/one-nation-senator-pauline-hanson-makes-toasts-donald-trump-to-victory/news-story/5f21193fe75fcafb3f90e6877a0bae4b