Racism and Hatred On the Loose

We are living in darkly historic times and it is no exaggeration to say that the evil forces of racism and hatred have been unleashed in a calculated, premeditated and predatory fashion. And these forces masquerade under the illusion that their intent is to make “America great” — implying that the nation has lost its purity and essence by catering to minorities, the LGBTQ community, and those dirty and wily foreigners. The prerequisite for a successful fascist state is establishing the other — the enemy — the “out group” — a readily identifiable segment of the population that can be ostracized, ridiculed and systematically targeted. This wholesale assault on human decency is happening right before our eyes with legislation and presidential directives that echo some of the world’s darkest times, such as the ascension of Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich. Long-established programs that support diversity, equity and racial equality have been and are currently being gutted and destroyed. And this is happening on a daily basis — this part of a coordinated effort to re-establish the United States as a global White supremacist stronghold.

I am no conspiracy theorist, and am about as radical as Norman Rockwell’s sock drawer. However, American democracy is now on life support as we have elected a man who has catered to, legitimized, and opened the doors for the darkest and most dangerous elements of society. The only thing that can turn back this historic descent into fascism is the unrelenting grass roots activism of organized and committed Americans. This effort will take a level of commitment that is perhaps unrivaled in U.S history. However, the cost and effort and sacrifice to maintain a healthy and vibrant democracy that honors and safeguards all people pales when contrasted with the unspeakable alternative that Donald Trump is imposing on the citizens of the United States.

JIM SAWYER, Edmonds, Wash.