I saw an image posted to one of my middle school teacher’s Facebook pages a few days ago that kind of upset me. And while I think the intention was supposed to be positive, I think the message it sends is a very dangerous one.
You may have seen it, or one like it, already. I’m paraphrasing here, but it basically said to remember that during this crisis actors, athletes, etc. were not essential, but doctors, nurses, grocery clerks, etc. were. It then went on to argue that actors should not make the amount of money they do- instead those essential workers should.
And while I totally agree that essential workers- especially those usually taken for granted like grocery clerks, custodians, etc. should be making a better wage- a LIVING wage even- I think there is danger in making this a “it’s us against them” argument. Actors don’t have to be paid less to pay a custodian more. It’s not one or the other and I think it’s dangerous to buy into that mindset because it tells you that in order to “win” someone has to “lose.”
And the argument over who is most essential can be dangerous too. Of course we all recognize how important healthcare workers are (from doctors, nurses, and pharmacists to the cleaning staffs, security, and delivery people) as are the individuals keeping our grocery stores stocked and open, those delivering food and necessities, restaurants that are continuing to provide food to-go, and countless others. But again, praising them for their amazing hardwork and sacrifice doesn’t mean you have to belittle others careers.
I’d argue that life without art is a life without soul. Whether it’s provided by someone like me who paints, or an opera singer, or an actor- art is essential to all of our sanity. Just think about the shows you’ve binge-watched during this quarantine; the movies you’re enjoying, the online museum tours, the music, etc. Artists of all kinds brought you that content. And yes, some actors make a TON of money, but many also use that money and influence to donate and raise funds for charity, to fund indie-projects, and more. Not to mention, those “big blockbusters” provide thousands of jobs- from studio sets to movie theaters.
Let’s also keep in mind that money follows what we as a society value and I think this pandemic is making people really reflect on what matters most to them. If you want to focus your values on small business, or emerging artists, and musicians who are just starting out, (all of which I personally find to be so important) then put your money there. Buy those movies Buy that art. Buy your gifts from a small store instead of a huge corporation. But you can also do both. You can see the indie film AND the blockbuster. You can go to an arena show and a local open-mic night.
So instead of dividing us, making it “us vs. them” let’s recognize that we all contribute. We all matter. And if you’d like to see a more equal and fair economy for all of us, then vote for it. Vote for fair wages, for healthcare, for whatever matters to you. But do not fall into the trap of believing that the only way for one group to succeed, is for another group to fail. We’re better than that. We should be pushing for ALL of us to have a voice, to share our gifts, and most importantly, to succeed and flourish.