Jason Johnson’s statement regarding the long-term battle we are facing as a nation, especially with the rise of figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk, really touches on a critical issue—our approach to societal progress and the slow, difficult nature of achieving lasting change. Here’s a breakdown and a deeper look into the conversation:

1. The Long-Term Struggle: Understanding the 40-Year Cycle

• Jason Johnson’s Analysis: His statement that it may take us 40 years to get out of the political and social cycle we’re currently in reflects an understanding of how significant shifts—whether in political power or social justice—require a long game. Johnson is pointing to the Republican strategy over the past 50 years, which led to the dismantling of Roe v. Wade, as a model of how strategic, long-term planning works in politics.
• The Long Game: The concept of the long game here isn’t just about elections but also about the generational shifts needed to address systemic issues. It’s the idea that real change doesn’t happen overnight, and sometimes, like the Civil Rights Movement, it can take decades of struggle.

2. Public Response and Its Complexity

• Immediate Reactions: Some of the responses from people, particularly on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, reveal mixed reactions. The statement about potentially not seeing the fruits of one’s labor in our lifetimes is difficult to digest. Many people have a natural instinct to avoid negativity or pessimism, especially in uncertain times.
• Optimism vs. Reality: Some argue that we shouldn’t be resigned to a slow fight and that there should be hope and action in the present. For others, the acknowledgment that they might not see the change they desire feels like defeat. Leaving the country or the idea that “nothing has changed” from the past can come from a place of burnout or disillusionment, but it also reflects a sense of frustration with not seeing quick results.

3. Historical Perspective: Resistance and Resilience

• The Harlem Renaissance and Black Innovation: A major point Johnson raises is the period between 1920 and 1965, during which Black Americans fought against systemic oppression, created, and innovated despite incredible challenges. The Harlem Renaissance, Black artists, scientists, and activists like George Washington Carver, Lena Horne, and Nat King Cole exemplified the ongoing resilience of Black people in America. Despite the oppressive conditions of the time, they were creating culture and paving the way for future generations.
  • This period wasn’t just about survival but also about thriving under adversity, showing that even in the face of a 40-year battle or beyond, Black people continued to innovate, influence, and succeed in ways that were transformative for the culture.

4. The Hesitation in Today’s Generation

• The Struggle Generation: There is an interesting dynamic at play today. On one hand, there is understandable frustration with how things have unfolded since the Civil Rights Movement, especially regarding expectations for progress. Many are questioning why change is so slow and why we seem to be stuck in a cycle of repeating history.
• The Burden of Expectations: Many in younger generations may have expected life to be easier or more progressive given the struggles of their ancestors. This has led to what seems like hesitation or resistance when faced with the kind of generational struggle that may be required. Some people struggle with the idea of being part of a “resistance generation” and find it hard to accept that they might not see the end result in their own lifetimes. This feeling is often tied to an increased desire for instant gratification in a world driven by quick fixes and rapid results.
• The Reality Check: Jason Johnson’s video serves as a reality check that underscores a very important point: this fight is bigger than us. It’s not just about one election cycle or one major victory. It’s about setting the stage for generations to come, much like the sacrifices made by those during the Harlem Renaissance or the Civil Rights Movement. The difference, however, is that the fight for change today involves addressing a wide range of issues, including systemic racism, economic disparities, and political upheaval.

5. Grappling with the Present vs. The Past

• “Nothing’s Changed” Mentality: The frustration of hearing that “nothing’s changed since the Civil Rights Movement” is common, but it overlooks the immense progress made in certain areas, such as voting rights, education, and the visibility of Black excellence in multiple fields. Yes, there is still much to do, but we cannot overlook the tangible progress that has been made.
• Reflection on Sacrifice: Many of us might want to escape the reality of a long, drawn-out struggle, and the idea of fighting for your children and grandchildren feels heavy, but it’s important to remember that past generations did just that. Their work wasn’t just for them, but for future generations who may experience the benefits of their efforts, much like how the Civil Rights Movement laid the groundwork for the freedoms and opportunities that followed.

Conclusion: Embracing the Long Game

• The key takeaway from Johnson’s message is that lasting change requires perseverance. We must recognize that change isn’t just about one election or one political win—it’s about long-term, generational efforts to reshape systems, norms, and mindsets. Embracing the fight for justice, equality, and freedom for future generations means stepping into the struggle, no matter how long or hard it may seem.
• It’s not about giving up or being passive, but understanding that the fight is ongoing, and the results of today’s struggles may not be visible for years or decades. However, the efforts we make today will pave the way for those who come after us—just as the sacrifices of our ancestors set the foundation for the victories we have today.