Patron Saints Of Nothing By Randy Ribay: An Analysis

In a world where information reigns supreme, the manipulation of narratives has become a weapon wielded by those in power. Within the pages of Randy Ribay's compelling novel, "Patron Saints of Nothing," a captivating exploration unfolds, delving into the mesmerizing realm where media's multifaceted abilities are harnessed to craft deliberate narratives, power structures are challenged, and the very foundations of social movements are immobilized. Ribay's masterful portrayal unveils the disturbing reality of a society compromised by the selective disclosure of information, illuminating the urgent need to seek out the entirety of the story. Prepare to embark on a thought-provoking journey that will captivate your mind, shatter preconceived notions,

As Rebecca Solnit asserts, “When activism wins, it’s because, at least in part, the story has become the new narrative, the story the mainstream accepts. Journalism plays a crucial role in this” (Solnit). By going beyond dominant narratives and uncovering obscured layers, journalists can challenge existing power structures and effect societal change. An example from "Patron Saints of Nothing" illustrates the significance of seeking the complete story, as mainstream media often overlooks stories like Reyna's. To illustrate this point, one can draw upon the words of Randy Ribay in his novel the character says, "'So her father sold her to these men--as a slave…' Your tita is the director of an organization that helps girls escape such situations as the one Reyna was in'" (205-206). By engaging with alternative sources, we can confront power imbalances and shed light on hidden injustices. This approach not only questions the status quo but also promotes inclusivity and diversity in understanding the world. To achieve this, we must actively engage with alternative sources, independent journalism, and grassroots movements. This active approach goes beyond passive consumption of information and allows us to amplify marginalized voices, challenge oppressive systems, and reshape public narratives. As I read this, I was exposed to

Solnit's article showcases a prime example of this, which is seen through the major movements of our society today. As exemplified by the Black Lives Matter movement, the story of police killings and the systematic exclusion of communities of color from their rights gained traction through activists and social media. The news media played a significant role in giving extensive coverage to these stories, elevating them from mere footnotes to hotly debated national news. However, the media's selective attention and prioritization can result in the neglect of other important events, such as the censorship prevalent in the Philippine media landscape. Jay, oblivious to the happenings in his own country, showcases the global ignorance perpetuated by media biases. This is evident when it says, “She takes another deep breath. ‘Duterte.’ I wait for her to say more. Mom blinks. ‘ Rodrigo Duterte? President of the Philippines’ I know she's waiting for understanding to dawn on my face, so I look down, feeling like a fool. ‘You don't know about him? About the drug war?’...‘Really, Jay, you should pay more attention to what's going on in the world outside of your video games.’” (Ribay 24). In contrast, his white mother demonstrates knowledge of this subject, urging Jay to pay