No no, I don’t intend to besmirch circuses. It’s a phrase attributed to a second century AD Roman poet, referring to politicians generating public approval by providing diversion instead of fixing the root causes of issues or even handling those issues at all.
Ironically, most circus performers tend to be very liberal. The circus sideshow is home to all the outcasts, and a large chunk of us are trans or queer. Many of us are disabled, some of us have deformities or body mods (I have a forked tongue). Republicans would undoubtedly send us to the gallows if they could.
I’ve literally gone on stage to warn people about the bills that Republicans are trying to pass. At our core, we’re artists, and we’re trying to fight the good fight.
In fact, the history of the “freak show” is very interesting and worth reading about. It’s a story of how capitalism exploits vulnerable populations for profit (PT Barnum is a piece of shit), though it has evolved a lot over time and is different now.
In fact, the history of the “freak show” is very interesting and worth reading about. It’s a story of how capitalism exploits vulnerable populations for profit (PT Barnum is a piece of shit), though it has evolved a lot over time and is different now.
As a circus performer, I’d rather not be dragged down to the level of these shit heads.
No no, I don’t intend to besmirch circuses. It’s a phrase attributed to a second century AD Roman poet, referring to politicians generating public approval by providing diversion instead of fixing the root causes of issues or even handling those issues at all.
We could also say “bread and games”.
Food and sports
Dang you’re right that is so unfair to circus professionals
Ironically, most circus performers tend to be very liberal. The circus sideshow is home to all the outcasts, and a large chunk of us are trans or queer. Many of us are disabled, some of us have deformities or body mods (I have a forked tongue). Republicans would undoubtedly send us to the gallows if they could.
I’ve literally gone on stage to warn people about the bills that Republicans are trying to pass. At our core, we’re artists, and we’re trying to fight the good fight.
In fact, the history of the “freak show” is very interesting and worth reading about. It’s a story of how capitalism exploits vulnerable populations for profit (PT Barnum is a piece of shit), though it has evolved a lot over time and is different now.
40 minute video essay on the topic