There have been a lot of great ideas and discussions sent our way on the current state of the fight against fascism and the role that this blog could play. I draw attention to a few below.
On the subject of truth, one friend has suggested that I change the name of my blog site because “Trueish stories” may not convey the right tone, considering that we want people to strengthen their notion of the truth. I’m of two minds because this has been the name of my underused blogsite for many years. Also, others have said that they really like it. But, if you find it misleading or inappropriate, I’m more than willing to consider changing it (if I can figure out how). Please let me know what you think.
A friend suggested that we should focus on fewer organizations. I admit that I have been taking a scattershot approach. My motivating idea at this point is that we try to draw people into committing a zillion acts of micro-resistance – one act at a time – because that could ease them from being depressed and isolated (and ineffective) into being engaged. My friend is worried that we are running out of time. I’m all for supporting a movement. I just don’t know which one. Your thoughts?
Along the same lines, another friend made a passionate plea that we need our own 2025 pact (my paraphrase) considering how organized the fascists were coming into power. He decries how badly a job “progressives” (and definitely the Democratic party) have done at capturing the curiosity and imagination of people, particularly compared to the fascists (or the Republican party). I completely agree, but how do we actionably get there?
Many of you work or have worked in the same business as I have – development aid. We have committed ourselves to bettering the lives of people living in poorer countries. The administration has frozen development aid and appears intent on ending it, as is clearly described in this NPR report. I haven’t seen any petitions or letters being written about fighting this trend. Has anyone? This is something that a lot of us could get behind.
A few suggestions from friends.
Leaders We Deserve “is a grassroots organization dedicated to electing young progressives to Congress and State Legislatures across the country to help defeat the far-right agenda and advance a progressive vision for the future.”
Protect Democracy “is a cross-ideological nonprofit group dedicated to defeating the authoritarian threat, building more resilient democratic institutions, and protecting our freedom and liberal democracy. Our experts and advocates use litigation, legislative and communications strategies, technology, research, and analysis to stand up for free and fair elections, the rule of law, fact-based debate, and a better democracy for future generations.” The following link takes to a list of 27 actions you can take.
David Wheeler, conceived of, programmed, and launched an automated, AI-supported, daily synthesis of hundreds of daily newspapers, organized by thematic area – called NewsWatch [newswatch21.org]. I love this site!
True-ish Stories 