In a powerful display of resilience, Amandla Stenberg, the nonbinary star of the highly anticipated Star Wars series “The Acolyte,” has crafted a poignant musical response to the wave of bigoted criticism they have endured. Channeling their artistic powers, Stenberg has composed a thought-provoking song titled “Discourse,” accompanied by a self-directed music video, to confront the intolerable racism and homophobia that has plagued their involvement in the Disney+ production.
Stenberg’s release of “Discourse” via her Instagram account coincided with the commemoration of Juneteenth, a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle against systemic oppression. In a candid Instagram post, Stenberg issued a direct challenge to their detractors, stating, “Happy Juneteenth 🖤and to those who are flooding me with intolerable racism— since it took me 72 hours on my laptop to make this song and video, u got 72 hours to respond. and I expect choreo!!”
Dissecting the Discourse: Unraveling Prejudice
Stenberg’s lyrical composition delves into the insidious tactics employed by bad-faith critics to distort their words and perpetuate harmful narratives. The song’s opening verses address the resurfacing of a 2018 interview with Trevor Noah, wherein Stenberg’s comments about the film “The Hate U Give” were maliciously taken out of context and weaponized against them.
“They splice lines, make hate they recognize, make it look like the same propaganda that they spew/ Cuz they conflate our pain with violence and try to weaponize everything that we do,” Stenberg sings, denouncing the deliberate misrepresentation of their words by conservative social media users.
Reclaiming the Narrative: Woke as a Catalyst for Change
In a poignant verse, Stenberg tackles the co-option of the term “woke” by right-wing pundits and racists, who have distorted its original meaning as a call for social awareness and justice. “They spinning WOKE, bastardize it and appropriate it/Last I recall, WOKE was something we created, speak truth to power, keep an eye out for you silly racists,” they assert, reclaiming the term’s essence as a rallying cry against oppression.
Stenberg’s lyrics also pay homage to Childish Gambino’s 2016 hit “Redbone,” which helped popularize the phrase “stay woke,” further underscoring the cultural significance of the term and its roots in the Black community’s struggle for equality.
Holding the Media Accountable: A Call for Ethical Journalism
In a scathing critique, Stenberg turns their attention to the media’s role in amplifying divisiveness and prioritizing metrics over truth. “Journalists I’m looking at you/ Did you forget it’s your job to provide the truth?” they challenge, condemning the spread of misinformation and the pursuit of sensationalism at the expense of ethical reporting.
“Spreading divisiveness mining the metrics and data, seems you gave up all your ethics for money and views,” Stenberg laments, calling for a recommitment to journalistic integrity and a rejection of the exploitation of controversy for personal gain.
Artistic Expression as a Catalyst for Healing
Beyond its lyrical prowess, “Discourse” serves as a powerful testament to the healing potential of artistic expression. Stenberg, a multitalented artist who has previously showcased their skills as a violinist and singer, harnesses the cathartic power of music to confront the pain and rage that stem from centuries of oppression.
“My sis said don’t let it get down my spirit / but i’m sick and fuckin tired of suppressing my rage / 400 years of taking their bullshit / to compartmentalize like my ancestors had to encage,” they sing, acknowledging the generational trauma inflicted upon marginalized communities while channeling their frustration into a potent artistic statement.
Amandla Stenberg’s Best Roles To Date
Amidst the turmoil, it is essential to recognize Amandla Stenberg’s remarkable body of work and the impact they have had on the entertainment industry. From their breakthrough role in “The Hunger Games” to their critically acclaimed performances in films like “The Hate U Give” and “Bodies Bodies Bodies,” Stenberg has consistently used their platform to amplify marginalized voices and challenge societal norms.
Their portrayal of the dual roles of Osha and Mae in “The Acolyte” further solidifies their status as a trailblazer, breaking new ground in the Star Wars universe and paving the way for greater representation and inclusivity in the beloved franchise.
A Resonant Call for Unity and Progress
Through “Discourse,” Amandla Stenberg has crafted a resonant and defiant anthem that challenges the insidious forces of bigotry and intolerance. Their artistic expression serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of social justice and equality is an ongoing battle, one that requires resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to truth.
As “The Acolyte” continues to captivate audiences, Stenberg’s musical endeavor stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to transcend boundaries, spark dialogue, and inspire meaningful change. In a world where divisiveness and hatred often dominate the discourse, Stenberg’s melodic riposte serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that through authenticity, empathy, and a shared commitment to progress, we can forge a path towards a more just and inclusive future.
