>* expressing concerns can result in being labeled as “racist,” “transphobic,” or “woke,” which discourages open and honest discussion.* The article is not rea

>* expressing concerns can result in being labeled as “racist,” “transphobic,” or “woke,” which discourages open and honest discussion.* The article is not really about people feeling constrained in their speech on specific topics. That implies that people know what's wrong. It's more about the idea that things feel "off" for a lot of people in ways they can't quite describe. And, it's saying that the reason is that there really are dramatic changes happening in the world, but the powers-that-be are acting as if everything's normal. "when everyone knew the system was failing, but since no one could imagine a possible alternative to the status quo, politicians and citizens alike were resigned to maintaining the pretense of a functioning society"