One of the things I am known for saying is that “no” just means “not yet.” But there are, of course, plenty of situations where “no” means “no.” And all those situations involve people defending their right to say no to someone’s actions or words that make them uncomfortable. Even if humor is brought into it, there are things that are just not funny, particularly when there are unequal power dynamics defined by money, gender, ability, etc.
Barbara Kruger has always spoken truth to power. I grew up with her images and words and continue to return to them. Kruger’s Untitled (Your body is a battleground) (1989) is a fierce reminder to live with integrity.
