American rapper and filmmaker Boots Riley frequently addresses social issues in his work. He is renowned for his astute observations regarding American political structures and economic disparity. In one of his remarks, he noted that overuse of the phrase can cause it to lose its impact when discussing wealth distribution.
Consider a crowded street where the same slogan is yelled by everyone throughout the day. Even if it's a potentially important message, eventually passersby simply tune it out and stop paying attention. Riley was referring to the fact that the phrase that is frequently used in conversations about wealth redistribution has become numb to many ears.
Riley has actively fought against systemic racism, the harsh realities of capitalism, and for workers' rights. The Coup, a satirical band he founded, uses humor and incisive commentary to draw attention to issues of injustice and inequality. His comments on everyday expressions are meant to draw attention to these important issues that are frequently disregarded or relegated to idle discussion.
Riley challenges people to think more carefully about the language they use when talking about economic disparities and to think about how these conversations can result in meaningful change rather than just becoming a recurring cycle by bringing up the idea that overused phrases lose their impact.