They say never discuss religion or politics. I’m about to break that rule with a post on politics. If it doesn’t interest you, keep scrolling. I won’t be offended.
About a year ago, someone told a group of crochet designers and sellers that politics don’t belong in sales. Specifically, it was said, “If I go to your page and I don’t know your politics, I’m happy.”
I have resisted this post, but it’s past time for it. I want to discuss three reasons why you DO want politics on your page or your social media.
- We don’t live in a vacuum.
- If my politics offend you, you’re not my people.
- Current events demand our attention.
1. We don’t live in a vacuum.
Our daily lives are influenced by politics and current events whether we realize it or not. And, often, whether we like it or not. We ignore them at our own risk. Pretending we aren’t influenced by world events is a special privilege
If you’re honest, as a crocheter, you have special groups that you buy patterns from. If your heart goes out to people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, Ukrainian refugees, women, etc., you seek them out. You may buy patterns from these groups as a way to support them.
The minute you do or think about that, your vacuum seal has been broken.
2. If my politics offend you, you’re not my people.
Let me be clear. I do not set out to offend anyone intentionally. However, when it comes to hot topics, people will be offended. If anything you say or do offends someone, don’t get upset about it. Know that you have further niched down to finding your people, your audience, your potential customers.
3. Current events demand our attention.
Women’s rights, the refugee crises, and the pandemic are among current and recent hot topics that have required our attention. Refugees from Ukraine and Central and South America request admission for various reasons. Women are facing legislation that will set their rights back fifty years. I won’t get any further into details that that.
Some crochet designers developed patterns for face mask covers during the height of the pandemic.Makers have made a point to purchase patterns and other crochet accessories from Ukrainian designers and makers. Designers made hats for the Women’s March in 2017. (I predict many of those will be making a comeback soon if they aren’t already.)
You get the idea. These are just a few ways current events impact our crochet hobbies and businesses.
What do you think?
Did I forget anything that should have been included? Let’s have a conversation in the comments. Keep it civil because I know this is a hot topic that could blow up if we’re not careful.
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