DELUISM
DE
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The manifesto · English reading edition

Denounce Injustice, Proclaim Hope, and Resist Oppression

This reading edition follows the supplied manuscript. The published English PDF remains the reference edition; wording and typography may differ slightly.

6 min read · Section 10 / 10

Denounce Injustice, Proclaim Hope, and Resist Oppression

Deluism is predicated on the principle of unadorned veracity with regard to contemporary malevolence. As Fidel Castro once asserted, "Telling the truth is the first duty of all revolutionaries". It is imperative to acknowledge the inherent intolerability of racism, capitalism and authoritarianism, which manifest as injustices that are both unacceptable and in direct contravention of fundamental ethical principles. The use of public protest imagery, such as banners displaying slogans such as "Justice for Mario Suhr" and "Asian Lives Matter", serves to illustrate how activists seek to expose acts of cruelty and mobilise public outrage. Deluists seek to denounce systemic evil in moral terms with the aim of awakening consciences and unifying resistance. As Castro emphasises, deceiving people or raising false hopes "always brings the worst consequences", and as such, the pledge is made to an uncompromising truth-telling. §

We specifically condemn: §

Racism – the oppression of people by race or ethnicity. §

Capitalism – an economic system that concentrates wealth and power. §

Authoritarianism – political rule by force or decree. §

By exposing these systems, Deluism's rhetoric has been argued to "stare reality in the face" and to channel the righteous anger required for change. §

Radical Hope and Optimism of the Will §

Deluism is characterised by a combination of critique and visionary hope. The following assertion is made in accordance with Antonio Gramsci's maxim: "pessimism of the intellect, optimism of the will". In practice, this entails the acknowledgement of unfavourable outcomes (pessimism) whilst maintaining an optimistic outlook. As the columnist Arwa Mahdawi notes, it is imperative to avoid complacency and to recognise the gravity of the present crises. However, it is equally crucial to maintain a sense of optimism and to believe that the world is not yet destined for disaster. Optimism is defined as a conscious act of defiance; it is not merely naïve cheer, but rather a "cry against resignation". Deluists have been known to posit a positive outlook, with the aim of inspiring others. The following concrete objectives are hereby articulated: §

Equitable prosperity for all communities, ending poverty and extreme inequality. §

A cultural renaissance where arts, education and science flourish inclusively. §

Peaceful global cooperation on issues like climate change and human rights. §

The organisation's slogans and music are instrumental in maintaining hope during periods of adversity. The ideology of Deluism is predicated on the combination of a clear-eyed critique of contemporary society with a promise of a better future. The objective of this ideology is to inspire people to believe that collective struggle can result in the creation of a new world. §

Resistance as a Moral Imperative §

Deluism can be defined as a call to action. It is insufficient merely to dream or speak; it is incumbent upon us to combat oppression wherever we encounter it. The present paper endorses the strategy of militant nonviolence as the primary tactic, utilising mass strikes, boycotts, protests and civil disobedience as instruments for the oppressed. However, Deluism also affirms the right of people to self-defense if necessary. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. himself was famously armed and believed that nonviolent public action did not require personal pacifism. As Malcolm X articulated in 1964, "I do not oppose the utilisation of violence for self-defence purposes. It is challenging for any individual of sound intellect to adopt a non-violent stance when confronted with circumstances of oppression. In summary, the nonviolent movement under discussion does not constitute an abandonment of the right of individuals to protect themselves. The concept of self-defense is understood within a political framework, signifying a collective right and a form of resistance. As one political theorist writes, "Self-defense is not merely an individual right; it is collective political resistance." §

In circumstances where authoritarian control is being consolidated – whether by the actions of a dictator, the implementation of unjust legislation, the exploitation of corporate entities, or the perpetration of racist attacks – Deluists will adopt a counterproductive stance. We concur with the sentiments expressed by Marx and Engels on this matter: It is imperative that the ruling classes are made to quake in their boots at the prospect of a Communist revolution. This renowned expression serves as a poignant reminder that when individuals unite, "having forfeited nothing but their chains," they possess the capacity to unsettle even the most formidable tyrants. We do not advocate senseless violence; however, we assert that the resolute courage of the people will not be subdued. §

Aesthetics of Revolution: Art, Music, and Media §

Deluism posits that the manner in which we articulate our ideas holds significance. The capacity of revolutionary art and culture to ignite movements is well-documented, as is their ability to offer symbols of hope and solidarity. For instance, the renowned Che Guevara portrait – captured by photographer Alberto Korda – has come to symbolise anti-capitalism and has been embraced as an emblem by peaceful social activists worldwide. As with Che's iconic image in 1968 Paris, the visual communication materials employed by this organisation – namely banners, posters and murals – utilise bold, uplifting imagery to symbolise a future worth fighting for. §

Music and literature are equally vital. Throughout history, it has been observed that oppressed peoples have transformed their struggles into songs. During the American civilrights era, spirituals and blues music became anthems: Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come" and the gospel hymn "We Shall Overcome" became rallying cries of defiance. Deluists are responsible for the creation of a new "propaganda of hope", in the form of songs, poems and theatre, which speak truth to power about injustice and celebrate the power of collective action. The inundation of culture with messages of resistance and possibility serves as a counteragent to despair. The practice of art, music and storytelling has been demonstrated to facilitate a sense of connection among individuals, whilst simultaneously providing examples of courage. This serves to reinforce the notion that individuals possess the capacity to achieve extraordinary feats. §

Honoring Martyrs and Inspiring Action §

Deluism is predicated on the notion that the manner in which we articulate our ideas holds significance. The capacity of revolutionary art and culture to ignite movements is welldocumented, as is their ability to offer symbols of hope and solidarity. For instance, the renowned Che Guevara portrait, captured by photographer Alberto Korda, has come to symbolise anti-capitalism and has been embraced as an emblem by peaceful social activists worldwide. As with Che's iconic image in 1968 Paris, the visual communication materials employed by this organisation – namely banners, posters and murals – utilise bold, uplifting imagery to symbolise a future worth fighting for. §

Music and literature are equally vital. It has been observed that throughout history, those who have been subject to oppression have often transformed their struggles into songs. During the American civil-rights era, spirituals and blues music became anthems: Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come" and the gospel hymn "We Shall Overcome" became rallying cries of defiance. Deluists are responsible for the creation of a new "propaganda of hope", in the form of songs, poems and theatre, which speak truth to power about injustice and celebrate the power of collective action. The inundation of culture with messages of resistance and possibility functions as a counteragent to despair. The practice of artistic, musical and storytelling activities has been demonstrated to facilitate a sense of connection among individuals, whilst simultaneously providing examples of courage. This finding serves to reinforce the notion that individuals possess the capacity to achieve extraordinary feats. §

Rise now, for the old order has stolen our dignity long enough, let us tear down the tyranny of greed and build, together, a world of freedom and equality. §