More about Crit Callebs
Many people have asked me "What is a Redneck?" and "What does being a Redneck mean to you?" These are very important questions that anyone who relates to the term Redneck should ask themselves. I believe that once you find the answers, being a Redneck takes on a whole new meaning.
It is impossible to capture the multi-dimensional characteristics of a Redneck with a single definition. But I can tell you what being a Redneck is to me. It is about living my idea of a Redneck lifestyle, unashamed and proud, because it makes totally good sense to me. I feel honored to talk with a thick accent because I inherited it from my Scotch-Irish ancestors that helped build this country. I do not mind getting filthy digging, shoveling and busting my hump all day. I work hard to pay my bills, taxes and take care of family and friends in need. I hunt, fish, eat meat and wear furs. I learned from an early age that food does not come from a grocery store. I also learned that if you do not hunt it, gather it, or grow it you will not be eating. And, if you do not take care of the land and animals there will not be anything to take care of you. These are just some of the aspects of my Redneck life that I am proud of, and I believe that everyone could learn a few things from a Redneck.
I do not believe in the popular stereotype of an ignorant, beer guzzling, racist hick that is a drain on our society. I am an intelligent Redneck with a bachelor´s degree and a keen sense of awareness. I teach self-reliance, Native American philosophy, and environmental education. I am totally dedicated to making our world a better place to live.
It is not within my power to solely define what makes someone a Redneck. It is definitely a personal choice whether or not you relate to any particular definition of a Redneck. I also believe that it is not within the power of any institution, comedian, media, or the dictionary to dictate what makes us a Redneck. Only we can say what defines a Redneck and then give it the power to represent our collective mindset and experience.
Being a Redneck for me is about talking the talk and walking the walk. It is about being comfortable in your own skin even though you look different, talk different, and live different. I am proud of who I am and where I come from.
Most people are not confused about their Redneck orientation. You are either a Redneck or not. There is no faking it.
I believe that the strongest enemy we have as Rednecks is ourselves. If we give truth to the stereotypes and refuse to ascend above the negativity then we will continue to remain an oppressed cultural group. We must consciously choose how we want to define our Redneck way of life by actively committing to the empowerment of self, family, and community. No stereotypes, labels, bad media or negative experiences can hold us down unless we allow it. If there is one thing that I am absolutely sure of, it is that Rednecks have the perseverance and guts to rise above it all.
This website is a dedication and a celebration to all of the beautiful and diverse Redneck communities. You are a wonderful contribution to our multi-cultural country. I want to thank you for visiting our website and lending your support.
Blessings,
Crit Callebs (Co-Founder)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hey Ya’All,
Crit and I started this website to celebrate the Redneck. We are so sick and tired of people feeling justified about putting down country folk, cowboys, and farmers. When I think of redneck I think of an individual who works hardand parties hard, a true friend and someone with real common sense. We like our music and the cloths we wear. We don’t feel that we have to impress anyone. Crit tends to be a bit more diplomatic than me but we both agreed that something has to be done.
For too many years now liberals, hippy-freaks and the so called city –sophisticates have tried to make fun of and put down people from the country with rural roots. The term they use to demean hard-working common sense Americans that don’t agree with their crazy talk is Redneck. It’s time to make a stand. Every group in thiscountry is protected from jokes or stereotyping except for Rednecks. Today it is fashionable to refer to Rednecksas ignorant or simpletons by politicians, the media and the so called smart people. But who is speaking up for the hard working folks that have made America what it is.
This website is about the movement of preserving the redneck and protecting the redneck from persecution andscorn. We have to unify so that our voice is strong and that we are heard. I make no apology for being a redneck nor should you. It be a better world if there were more rednecks in it. I say, stop being pushed around; celebrate who you are and Save the Redneck. This website has been created to celebrate everything right with the Redneck. Join the cause by sharing your opinions, celebrating being a Redneck and wearing an official shirt. Save the Redneck before it is too late!!!
Catch Ya Later,
Trey Thomas (Co-founder)
Co-Founder Trey Thomas