Somewhat regularly, we on the BSR team get complaints from readers who don't want us to be political. Just cover the arts, they say. We don't want to read about your politics.
But as we've been saying for years here at BSR, art IS political. Why? Because politics determine who can speak up and how. And who speaks up more regularly than artists and writers? We at BSR wish basic human rights and dignities--for immigrants, for women, for queer and trans people, for disabled people, for people of color, for Jews and Muslims, for everyone targeted by MAGA policies--didn't rely on who wins elections in America. But they do.
Though it's not TOTALLY true that all those things rely on who wins elections. They also rely on what we the people will stand for: what we will do when we see our neighbors threatened by nasty rhetoric and unjust policies from the highest echelons of power. That's another reason BSR is political. Inclusion, diversifying arts journalism, and disability justice have been at the center of our mission for years, and we certainly aren't stopping now. We aren't perfect, but we're always excited by the learning process.
So if a BSR piece makes you uncomfortable or irritated because it's "political", explore that feeling. Why are you upset? Does the piece point out a power imbalance you weren't aware of or aren't used to acknowledging? Does it feel scary to question your favorite institutions? If you feel safe in most situations and comfortable making your opinion known, could you reflect on why other people might feel less safe or have a harder time speaking up?
For a lot of us, that is uncomfortable work. It can take a long time. And if you don't agree that that work is needed, that's ok. There are so many places and ways to get your news and stay entertained and find likeminded community. We're going to stick to our mission, and it feels great to hear from the many people who appreciate it.
This week, we're covering a Trump Preparedness Hearing at City Council that asked whether Philly is ready to stand up for our Sanctuary City policy as ICE raids hit close to home. Composer Kile Smith remembers legendary WRTI host Bob Perkins. We're also reviewing the latest at the Arden, McCarter, ICA, and more.
Plus, we're excited to share that BSR is recognized in the Philly News Awards for the second year in a row. I am proud to be nominated for Editor of the Year alongside colleagues at the Inquirer, WHYY, and Philly Mag. Voting is open to everyone through Monday, February 3. Here's the ballot if you're so moved. There are many award categories. Show some love to your favorite Philly journalists!
Kyle will be with you tomorrow. And then look out for our BSR in the Wild mailer from Neil on Friday morning, with exclusive tips for our subscribers on where our team is headed in February. Thanks for spending another week with us!
Alaina Johns
BSR editor-in-chief