becks kolins, Senior, Skidmore College
I became radicalized several years ago after trying to interrogate my q***r identity in relation to my other identities and social position in society. I strongly identify as q***r, in terms of my gender identity, sexual orientation, and politics. I believe that in nature humans are compassionate and good and that it is our economic, political, and social sy
stems’ use of control, repression, and power that results in the lack of agency we have. Politically, I identify as an anarchist, desiring a dismantling of the system we live under and a complete redistribution of wealth in localized, horizontal communities based on the common-good. I find that these politics are present in my everyday interactions and relationships, while I struggle and am constantly working and learning to maintain transparency, respect, and a lack of hierarchy. If I could marry any four people (and compromise my belief in marriage), they would be Audre Lorde, bell hooks, Dean Spade, and Assata Shakur. Danny Pforte, Junior, Skidmore College
From a working class background in Cambridge MA, I was driven to a revolutionary framework from experience and personal study. I believe that the U.S. is global empire that uses racism, capitalism, patriarchy and heteronormativity to further ruling class interests. I draw from Huey P. Newton, Franz Fanon, bell hooks, among others to help me construct a worldview that will help steer me toward a revolutionary framework. I want to continue to learn and engage in contemporary struggles and place them in the context of history. As the challenges to liberation and freedom become steeper and more complex, it is my duty, all our duties, to do what we can to create a new world. Donald Duff II, Junior, Skidmore College
From a working class family in Atlanta, Georgia. I do not think I’m as radical as my comrades, but I think there is a lot of corruption, racism, and patriarchy and sadness in the world. I take an interest in the problems occurring around the world especially in imperialism and colonialism. At the moment not many writers have had a huge impact on me, but I do admire Huey P. Newton and Louis Farrakhan. My wish is to educate others as well as help build a better place so that we all can be liberated.
