Would Mr. Rogers Have Been Considered Woke?
Would Mr. Rogers have been considered woke if we were to measure his actions today? This is a question worth exploring. Some would vehemently argue no, touting how the woke crowd would cancel him posthumously. However, if we examine his historical actions and beliefs, the answer could be far more nuanced.
Evaluation in Modern Context
Modern Interpretation of Woke: Today, some perceive woke as anything that deviates from their personal moral or political beliefs. For example, Fox News often uses woke as a term of derision, claiming Mr. Rogers "destroyed" an entire generation. But would this character assassination have stood up to scrutiny if Mr. Rogers were still alive?
When Teresa Mull wrote her book, she used the term woke to target those who lacked awareness of racial and social inequality. This, she suggested, could also be applied to those with a narrow or static view of the world. But when Mr. Rogers was alive, his actions and beliefs might not fit into today’s simplistically boils-down definition of woke.
Historical Context
Fred Rogers and Equality: Fred Rogers was a beacon of equality before its time. For instance, he allowed a Black man to play the role of a police officer on his show, which was a monumental step at the time. He also shared a swimming pool with a Black man, a progressive act in the late 1960s when such public amenities were segregated.
Furthermore, Rogers was not only a champion of equality but a true believer in treating individuals with respect and kindness. His actions went beyond mere talk; he also formed important personal relationships, such as helping a Black actor in his personal life.
Political Beliefs and Legacy
Political Affiliation and Actions: While Rogers was a lifelong Republican, his political beliefs aligned less with modern conservative ideals. He appreciated figures like Ronald Reagan, who was viewed as a conservative hero. However, his commitment to woke principles extended beyond politics. He frequently condemned discrimination and fought for inclusivity on his show.
Personal Characteristics: Despite his political alignment, Rogers' personal characteristics—such as his kindness, empathy, and commitment to fostering mutual understanding—contributed significantly to his legacy. He believed in the inherent worth of every individual and worked tirelessly to ensure that message resonated with his young viewers.
Conclusion
Thus, while woke has evolved to mean something quite different now than when Rogers first brought his message of kindness and inclusion to the world, his actions certainly set him apart as a man ahead of his time. Whether he would be considered woke today is debatable. However, his legacy as a proponent of equality and understanding remains a significant contribution to society, transcending political labels.
Keywords: Mr. Rogers, Woke, Equality