Barbra Streisand: Unyielding in Her Stand for Democracy at 81
Barbra Streisand, the legendary singer and actress, has never shied away from controversy. Now, at 81, she remains a formidable force, using her voice to boldly confront the issues that threaten democracy. Her latest target? Former President Donald Trump. Streisand has made it crystal clear that if Trump returns to the White House in 2024, she won’t hesitate to take a stand—and leave the country if necessary. Her unwavering commitment to speaking out for what she believes in shows that her voice, both on and off the stage, is as powerful as ever.
Streisand’s Fierce Rejection of Trump
A lifelong supporter of the Democratic Party and a passionate advocate for justice, Barbra Streisand has never minced words when it comes to her disdain for Donald Trump. Over the years, she’s labeled him as “so stupid” and “ill-informed,” even dubbing him the “Liar in Chief” and the “Groper in Chief.” During a candid interview with Stephen Colbert, she made her feelings clear, stating, “I can’t live in this country if he becomes president.”
This bold declaration wasn’t a one-time event. In fact, after Trump’s shocking victory in 2016, Streisand—like many other celebrities—swore she would leave the country. At the time, she remarked, “America was great – before you were elected,” capturing the frustration felt by many at the time.
Turning Frustration Into Music
Streisand’s deep frustration with the state of politics under Trump led her to channel her anger into her 36th album, Walls, released in 2018. The album stands as a poignant commentary on Trump’s divisive rhetoric and policies. With tracks like “Don’t Lie to Me,” Streisand addresses the relentless tide of falsehoods and misinformation that defined Trump’s presidency. Through her music, she passionately expresses her outrage and insists that the American people deserve honesty and truth in leadership. Her album serves as both an emotional release and a call to action for those who stand for integrity and transparency.
Artists as the Conscience of a Nation
In her memoir, My Name is Barbra, Streisand reflects on the delicate balance between politics and art, firmly asserting that artists play a crucial role in serving as a nation’s conscience. According to her, artists are tasked with pushing society to confront uncomfortable truths, boldly challenging the status quo. Streisand powerfully declares, “That’s why art is the enemy of tyrants and dictators,” emphasizing the vital role of creative voices in holding those in power accountable.
Staying and Fighting for Change
Despite her impassioned efforts, Streisand’s powerful voice wasn’t enough to change the course of the 2016 election. Trump was elected, and celebrities, including Streisand, faced a difficult choice: stay and fight for change, or leave the country? Some, like comedian George Lopez and talk show host Jon Stewart, joked about leaving for other countries—or even other planets. Others, like Chelsea Handler, realized that their platforms were more essential than ever in a divided nation, and chose to stay, using their voices to advocate for change.
Finding Hope in President Joe Biden
After four years of turmoil, Streisand found hope with the election of President Joe Biden. She admires his compassion, honesty, and integrity, believing that he represents the kind of leadership America needs to heal and move forward. Yet, her concerns remain—especially with the looming possibility of Trump’s return to power. Streisand, who has been outspoken about Trump’s incompetence, insists that she won’t live in a country led by someone she deems “so stupid” and “so ill-informed.”
A New America: Restoring the Nobility of Truth
Ultimately, Streisand envisions a transformed America—one free from corruption, lies, and divisiveness. She calls for the restoration of truth’s nobility, believing that only when truth is restored will America truly be great again. Streisand’s vision is a hopeful one, built on honesty, compassion, and a commitment to democratic values.
Your Thoughts on Celebrities Using Their Voices for Change
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