OPINION: Introducing The Redneck Revolt
Redneck Revolt is an American far-left political group that organizes predominantly among white working-class people. The group supports gun rights and members often openly carry firearms. Its political positions are anti-capitalist, anti-racist and anti-fascist-Wikipedia
Trevor K. McNeil
Close the Gap
In this age of populism and division it can be easy to forget that there were once politicians who claimed to be uniters not dividers. The current political divide, which is exactly why there is a political divide, are driven by extremists on both sides. The refusal to even look for common ground and tear down and vilify everyone and anyone who disagrees is a greater threat to democracy than nearly anything else. The Trump administration is a manifestation of the problem not the source. A certain amount of partisanship is required for democracy to work. Otherwise we might as well be in Russia. Where one ruling party runs unopposed. People are a lot more complicated than that. As the Redneck Revolt shows.
Not What You Think
Far from the banjo-plucking, cousin marrying, right-wing gun nuts of the cultural imagination, the Redneck Revolt presents a more nuanced view of Southern culture. Founded in Lawrence, Kansas, the group is a less militant and more political off-shoot of the distinctly leftist John Brown Gun Club. Some may cringe at the 2nd Amendment advocacy and that is fair. It should be kept in mind that guns really are a part of southern rural culture, and it is unrealistic if not unreasonable to expect that to change.
Points of Agreement
Aside from the gun issue, which can be a sticking point for some, particularly of a more progressive bent, there are several points of agreement between Redneck Revolt, and groups like Antifa and Black Lives Matter. The later of whom they openly support. In addition to being Nerver-Trumpers and opposing the Republican Party in general, RR are anti-capitalist and ardently anti-racist. Some Redneck Revolt members have in fact advocated for what is referred to as “a right of militant resistance.” But, they assure observers they are not the types to shoot first and ask questions later. The group is clear that the guns they carry are a deterrent and for protection against opposing armed groups like the Oath Keepers. They vow never to fire unless fired on first.
A Matter of Pragmatism
The Redneck Revolt does not advocate that issues of economic oppression be put ahead of racial issues, or the other way around. Instead theirs s a wholistic approach. One of the few to take into account the two are closely connected. Some of the worst samples of racial discrimination, such as red-lining and discriminatory hiring and education practices have a distinctly economic basis. It is important to remember that the cultural image of the south held by many liberals is deeply flawed. In fact, there are many allies for a progressive agenda in the southern states.
Say What They Mean
The core principles of the Redneck Revolt are as follows:
*We stand against white supremacy
*We believe in true liberty for all
*We stand for the organized defense of our communities
*We are working class and poor people
*We are an above ground militant formation
*We stand against the nation-state
*We stand against capitalism
*We stand against the wars of the rich
*We stand against patriarchy
*We believe in the right of militant resistance
*We believe in the need for revolution
The War Is Over
Just as most true Christians would lighten up on LaVeyans if they actually read the Seven Tenets, the progressive left in the north and west have a lot more in common with those in the South and Midwest than any of them likely realize. The culture war is over, if you want it to be.
