"The New Deal" is a song by Gil Scott-Heron, a renowned American poet, musician, and activist. Released in 1977, it is a powerful critique of the political and social landscape of the United States, particularly with regards to the civil rights movement and the state's attempts to suppress and undermine it. The lyrics express Gil Scott-Heron's personal experiences and observations regarding the struggle for equality and justice. He begins by stating that he has always believed in his convictions, but he has also been convicted for his beliefs. This refers to the constant persecution and harassment faced by those fighting for civil rights, as seen through the lens of his own experiences. Scott-Heron further highlights the hypocrisy and shortcomings of the constitution and the justice system. He feels conned by the constitution and harassed by the police, which implies that the rights and liberties promised by the law are not fully realized or protected for everyone, particularly for marginalized communities. He then mentions being billed for the bill of rights and being treated as if he was wrong, emphasizing the struggles faced by those fighting for equality and justice. He portrays himself as a special amendment, implying that he and others like him were excluded from the rights and freedoms guaranteed to all citizens. The lyrics also touch upon the theme of non-violence during the civil rights era, challenging the idea that non-violence was the only successful approach. Scott-Heron suggests that non-violence was not as prevalent as commonly believed, as rednecks with guns hindered its effectiveness. He discusses the pattern of black leaders being targeted and imprisoned, suggesting that those who dared to stand up for their beliefs were silenced through legal or extrajudicial means. The song implies that there was a deliberate effort by those in power to dismantle the civil rights movement. The use of dirty tricks and the manipulation of public opinion created division, weakening the movement. Scott-Heron uses phrases like being hoodwinked by professional hoods (referring to deceitful individuals in power) and being taken to the cleaners (exploited or deceived) to express his frustration with the tactics employed against the movement. The chorus, "We'll settle all this at the conference table, You just leave everything to me," highlights the false promises made by those in power to pacify the movement and divert attention from real change. Scott-Heron believes that by relinquishing the pressure and taking the movement off the streets, the power dynamics remained unchanged and progress was hindered. In conclusion, "The New Deal" by Gil Scott-Heron is a powerful critique of the state of civil rights in the United States, highlighting the suppression, manipulation, and exploitation faced by those fighting for justice. The song serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and not be swayed by hollow promises, as complacency only plays into the hands of those in power.
