Politics as Unusual

After an endless election and a week’s-worth of a White House orders that have eclipsed all other news, it wouldn’t surprise me if you were getting sick of politics; especially if you’re the type of person who describes yourself as not being all that political in the first place. Well, here’s an update: You’re political. We all are. The reaction to Trump’s immigration ban is a reminder of an indisputable fact in an age sorely short on them: Everything is political.

+ Trying to choose a communications platform, a payment solution, or a delivery service? Better check the the A-to-Z guide to Silicon Valley’s backlash against Trump’s immigration ban to see which corporate views match your own.

+ Want to skip the news and enjoy an nice NBA game? Sorry, pro basketball: Political.

+ So turn off the game, and hit a movie for some real escapism. Oh wait, Hollywood is all about politics these days.

+ Maybe we have too many news and entertainment inputs anyway. So take a few minutes and shut everything off an enjoy a nice cup of coffee. But first, find out which side of the aisle your coffee maker is on. Starbucks just said it will hire 10,000 refugees worldwide in next 5 years. Most Americans are cheering that decision, but many are calling for a boycott. (Dueling Ban-joes?)

+ Just trying to mind your own business and get a ride home? Well, choose your car service wisely, because that is now a political choice as well.

+ Even deciding which shirt to wear is political. But maybe everyone getting political isn’t such a bad trend. The last few days have reminded me of this: “Everybody has to fight to be free, you see.” Ironically, that line comes from the Tom Petty song, Refugee.