“Woke’s Silent Return: Are We Complacent Enough for Its Comeback?”
social justice activism, political correctness debates, cultural awareness movements
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The Resurgence of "Woke": Understanding Its Impact and Implications

In a thought-provoking tweet from Matt Van Swol, he asserts that "woke" culture is far from dead; rather, it is merely lying in wait for a moment when society becomes complacent again. This statement encapsulates a complex and often contentious topic in contemporary discourse. The idea of "wokeness," which refers to awareness of social injustices and inequalities, has sparked numerous debates surrounding its implications, origins, and future trajectory. In this article, we will explore the concept of "woke," its current status, and the potential for its resurgence in society.

What Does "Woke" Mean?

The term "woke" originated within African American Vernacular English (AAVE) as a colloquialism for being awake to social and political issues, particularly those related to race and inequality. Over the years, the term has evolved and expanded to encompass a broader awareness of various social injustices, including gender inequality, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental issues, and economic disparity.

The Evolution of Woke Culture

In recent years, "woke" has transitioned from a term of empowerment to a point of contention. Critics argue that it has devolved into a form of performative activism, where individuals or organizations adopt "woke" rhetoric without genuine commitment to the causes they espouse. This backlash has led to a perception among some that "woke" culture is declining or even "dead." However, as Van Swol suggests, this perspective may be overly simplistic.

The Current state of Woke Culture

While there may be signs of fatigue in some circles regarding "woke" activism—often perceived as excessive political correctness or cancel culture—the underlying issues that gave rise to this movement remain prevalent. Social media continues to amplify discussions around race, gender, and inequality, creating a platform for marginalized voices. Movements such as Black lives Matter and various LGBTQ+ rights campaigns have gained significant traction, indicating that the core tenets of "woke" culture are still very much alive.

Complacency and the Cycle of Wokeness

Van Swol’s assertion that "woke is just in hiding" speaks to the cyclical nature of social movements. History has shown that societal awareness and activism often ebb and flow. After periods of intense activism, there can be a tendency for people to become complacent, leading to a decline in social engagement. This complacency creates fertile ground for "wokeness" to re-emerge, often in response to new injustices or crises.

The Role of Good People in Social Change

The call to action embedded in Van Swol’s tweet emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to remain vigilant in their awareness and activism. Good people must not allow themselves to become complacent, as this can lead to the erosion of the progress made in social justice. Engaging in meaningful conversations, educating oneself and others about social issues, and advocating for change are essential components of maintaining a "woke" consciousness.

The Future of Woke Culture

As society continues to confront various challenges—be it systemic racism, gender inequality, climate change, or economic disparity—the relevance of "woke" culture is likely to persist. The potential for its resurgence will depend on how individuals and communities respond to these challenges. Rather than viewing "wokeness" as a passing trend, it is crucial to understand it as a necessary awareness that can drive meaningful change.

Conclusion: Embracing Wokeness

In summary, Matt Van Swol’s tweet serves as a reminder that "woke" culture is not dead; it is simply waiting for a moment of renewed awareness and engagement. The challenges of our time require that we remain vigilant, informed, and active in our pursuit of social justice. By doing so, we can ensure that the spirit of "wokeness" remains alive and continues to inspire positive change in society. As we navigate these complex issues, it is essential to recognize the importance of each individual’s role in fostering an inclusive and equitable world.

No.

Woke is not dead.

Woke is just in hiding…

…waiting for good people to become complacent again

So it can re-emerge.

— Matt Van Swol (@matt_vanswol) June 21, 2025

No.

Let’s get straight to the point: the conversation around “woke” culture isn’t going anywhere, despite what some may claim. In a recent tweet, Matt Van Swol stated, “Woke is not dead. Woke is just in hiding…waiting for good people to become complacent again. So it can re-emerge.” This statement encapsulates a growing sentiment among many who believe that the ideals behind “wokeness” are simply lying in wait, ready to resurface when society least expects it. But what does this really mean for us? Let’s dive into the depths of this conversation and explore the nuances of being “woke” in today’s world.

Woke Is Not Dead.

First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: the term “woke” has been thrown around with various interpretations. Some see it as a badge of honor, while others dismiss it as an overused cliché. The reality is that being woke—or more appropriately, being aware of social injustices—has not disappeared. Instead, it’s been adapted, criticized, and sometimes weaponized in political and social discourse. From movements advocating for racial justice to climate change activism, the fundamental concepts behind wokeness continue to thrive, albeit sometimes under a different guise.

Woke Is Just in Hiding…

What does it mean for “woke” to be in hiding? This idea suggests that while the term might not be as prevalent in mainstream discussions, the principles it embodies are still very much alive. Social justice movements, environmental initiatives, and calls for equality are still being championed by passionate individuals around the globe. So, in a way, wokeness is like a dormant volcano—waiting for the right conditions to erupt back into the public consciousness.

Take, for instance, the recent surge in environmental activism. Groups like Greenpeace and Fridays for Future are mobilizing young people to take action against climate change and advocate for a sustainable future. This is a manifestation of wokeness that transcends the traditional definition. It’s not just about being aware; it’s about taking action for a brighter tomorrow.

…Waiting for Good People to Become Complacent Again

So why is it that wokeness seems to go quiet at times? One reason could be the complacency that creeps into societal norms. When people feel that progress has been made, they may become less inclined to speak out or engage in activism. This complacency can lead to a dangerous cycle where injustices go unchecked. The tweet by Van Swol highlights this very concern—if we let our guard down, we risk allowing old injustices to resurface.

Consider the recent discussions around racial justice and police reform. After the initial waves of protests following the murder of George Floyd, many felt a sense of urgency and desire for change. Yet, as time passed, the fervor diminished. This is precisely what Van Swol is pointing to: if we stop advocating for change, the issues we fought against can easily re-emerge. Staying vigilant is essential.

So It Can Re-Emerge.

The notion that wokeness can “re-emerge” is intriguing. It suggests that societal awareness can shift and evolve based on current events and cultural sentiment. As history has shown, movements often rise in response to the prevailing issues of the day. For instance, the rise of social media has provided a platform for marginalized voices to be heard, leading to a renewed focus on issues like news/free-speech/what-is-woke-and-why-is-it-so-controversial/”>systemic inequality and oppression.

Moreover, the younger generations are becoming increasingly active in these conversations. They’re harnessing platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to promote social justice movements, challenge the status quo, and hold institutions accountable. This wave of activism is a clear indication that wokeness is far from dead. It’s simply adapting to new mediums and methods of communication.

The Importance of Staying Engaged

What can we take away from this discussion? The key takeaway is that staying engaged is crucial. It’s easy to become apathetic, especially when progress feels slow or when justice seems elusive. However, history shows us that complacency can lead to regression. As citizens, we have a responsibility to remain aware and active in our communities. This means educating ourselves, sharing information, and supporting causes that align with our values.

Engagement can take many forms, whether it’s through volunteering, attending local meetings, or simply having conversations with friends and family. Each small action contributes to a larger movement. The more we talk about social issues, the more we keep the conversation alive and prevent complacency from setting in.

Embracing the Complexity of Wokeness

Understanding wokeness requires us to embrace its complexity. It’s not a one-size-fits-all label; it’s a broad spectrum of awareness and action. From recognizing our own biases to advocating for systemic change, being woke is about more than just a catchy phrase—it’s about a commitment to understanding and improving the world around us.

As we navigate this complex landscape, it’s essential to approach conversations about wokeness with an open mind. It’s okay to disagree; what matters is that we engage in dialogue and seek to understand differing perspectives. This is part of what keeps the spirit of wokeness alive and breathing.

Conclusion

In the end, it’s clear that wokeness isn’t a dead concept, nor is it something to be dismissed. It’s a living, evolving dialogue that reflects the challenges and triumphs of our times. Matt Van Swol’s tweet serves as a reminder that complacency can be dangerous, and vigilance is necessary to ensure that the ideals of social justice, equality, and awareness continue to thrive.

So, let’s stay woke—both in our actions and our conversations. The world needs good people to be aware and engaged, ready to rise when the moment calls for it. Whether you’re passionate about racial justice, climate change, or any other pressing issue, remember that your voice matters. Woke is not dead; it’s just waiting for the right moment to re-emerge, and that moment could be now.