The Hidden Roller Coaster of History: Why Progress Always Comes with a Dip

Imagine history as a vast, jagged mountain range rather than a straight ascending path. This metaphor captures the essence of 'The Dip' — a concept that challenges the common belief that humanity steadily moves forward. Instead, history is marked by cycles of progress followed by sharp setbacks. These dips are not random; they are predictable reactions from entrenched powers threatened by change.

Consider the abolition of slavery in the United States. The victory of emancipation was followed by the Reconstruction era, a brief period of hope, then plunged into the harsh realities of Jim Crow laws and systemic racism. This dip was a reaction to progress, a deliberate attempt to regain control and suppress the newly gained freedoms.

Technology often misleads us into thinking progress is constant. Our smartphones get faster, our internet grows quicker, yet social justice can regress. Faster internet speed does not mean society is kinder or more just. Recognizing this distinction is crucial for activists who might feel disheartened by setbacks.

Understanding The Dip prepares activists to expect resistance. It builds resilience by framing setbacks as natural, temporary phases rather than permanent defeats. This mindset shift is vital for sustaining long-term movements. It also helps contextualize current crises, such as police brutality and systemic oppression, as part of a historical pattern that will eventually give way to new progress.

By embracing this cyclical view, activists can strategize better, knowing that dips are moments to regroup, strengthen, and push forward. This knowledge transforms despair into determination and fosters a deeper commitment to justice.

As we continue exploring this journey, we will see how personal stories of trauma and resilience intertwine with these historical forces, shaping the individuals who lead the charge for change.