Tuesday reflections are simple yet profound reflecting different aspects of humanity


Tuesday reflections are simple yet profound reflecting different aspects of humanity
With millions of people marching in the streets across the United States and 10,000 – 20,000 marching here in Spokane this would make a good topic for our local newspapers, comma and social media. It would also be an opportunity to disseminate strategic conversations across the nation.
Ann Marie Danimus engages with a man about abortion prior to U>S> Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s speedh at a Kootenai County GOP dinner in downtown Coeur d’Alene. 2022
The marchers are asking a fundamental question: How do we preserve democracy when so many of our neighbors seem willing to trade it for the promise of security?
It appears that there is a great deal of fear dividing our country in two. Why these fears, what needs to be done, and how can we do it? What do our readers think? What does our community think? What do others think?
This is a three part series. The first part describes the fears and what needs to be done to address them. The second part addresses why Black people should resist the loss of democracy, the third part deals with what needs to be done. Later articles can follow the progress of the Spokane fight for democracy.
The articles discuss various evidence-based approaches to enhance democratic resilience and social cohesion at government, institutional, and individual levels. They highlight the importance of economic interventions, leadership strategies, educational reforms, media responsibility, and personal engagement. The text outlines measures for specific demographic concerns while emphasizing the need for systemic changes and the importance of measuring success. Key factors for success include authenticity, inclusivity, patience, consistency, local focus, and bipartisan support.
Feedback from social media posts and interactions can be used to invite them to remove the fear, save democracy and participate in building a better community they want to live in.
Why Are People So Afraid That They Choose Tyranny Over Democracy
Robert “Bob” Lloyd info@4comculture.com 4comculture.com
1. Why Are People So Afraid That They Choose Tyranny Over Democracy
2. Why Blacks Will Resist the Loss of Democracy
3. What Needs To Be Done to Relieve Fear?
This page provides examples of how you can be empowered. Feel free to look around 4comculture.com. Please also do research outside of the site.
Drawn together Tuesday plays on both the artistic medium drawing and the unifying aspects of bringing diverse communities together.
What do you see and how do you feel?
Historical Context and Deep-Rooted Resistance
African Americans whose families have been in America since the 1400s and experienced slavery until the 1860s carry a unique and profound understanding of what happens when democratic institutions fail and authoritarian power goes unchecked. This lived experience across generations creates distinct motivations for resisting authoritarianism that differ significantly from more recent immigrant communities.
Generational Memory of Systemic Oppression
For African American communities with deep ancestral roots in America, the fight against Project 2025 and strongman leadership is informed by centuries of experiencing what happens when one group holds unchecked power. Their ancestors lived through:
This historical memory creates an acute awareness that democratic institutions, when weakened, can quickly become tools of oppression rather than protection.
Recent Immigrant Communities
The resistance motivations differ significantly from those of recent immigrants because:
For Long-Standing African American Communities:
For Recent Immigrant Communities:
Understanding Project 2025’s Specific Threats
Project 2025 represents a particular threat to Black communities because it “includes a long list of extreme policy recommendations touching on nearly every aspect of American life, from immigration and abortion rights, to free speech and racial justice” [1]. The plan “would severely harm Black communities across the country” through its “radical proposals to restructure the federal government and increase the president’s authority” [2].
For communities with generational experience of oppression, these proposals echo historical patterns where concentrated executive power was used to maintain racial hierarchies and suppress civil rights progress.
The Stakes of Democratic Backsliding
African American communities with deep American roots understand that when presidents position themselves “as kings or strongman leaders,” the communities that suffer first and most severely are those who have historically been marginalized. Their resistance isn’t just political preference—it’s survival instinct informed by historical experience.
This creates a unique perspective where challenging authority isn’t “rocking the boat”—it’s preventing the boat from capsizing entirely. Their ancestors learned that waiting for gradual change or hoping that authoritarian leaders will self-limit often leads to deeper oppression, not eventual liberation.
The fight against authoritarianism, for these communities, represents a continuation of a centuries-long struggle for true democratic participation and protection under law.
What can be done to relieve these fears and concerns – by government, by leadership, by institutions, by individuals? What Needs To Be Done To Relieve Fear
4.
1. Why Are People So Afraid That They Choose Tyranny Over Democracy
2. Why Blacks Will Resist the Loss of Democracy
3. What Needs To Be Done to Relieve Fear?
4. Join Fighting Fear and Volunteer
This page provides examples of how you can be empowered. Feel free to look around 4comculture.com. Please also do research outside of the site.
This song inspired by Curtis Mayfield’s song of the 60’s is meant to bring unity, courage, and hope to challenging times.
People stay ready, there’s a movement to start,
Bring your courage, your fire, your heart.
You don’t need permission, just take your stand,
The power’s in the people, hand in hand.
The chains might rattle, but they won’t hold tight,
When love and resistance shine through the night.
Truth’s our engine, hope the tracks we ride,
We’ll break through the darkness, side by side.
People stay ready, there’s a storm ahead,
You don’t need no ticket, just rise instead.
Justice is calling, hear the freedom bell,
We’re fighting for tomorrow, where all can dwell.
There’s no room for hatred, no place for fear,
The time is now, the path is clear.
Together we’re mighty, together we’re strong,
We’ll write the future, where we belong.
So rise up boldly, let the world take note,
Freedom’s the anthem, every voice a vote.
People stay ready, the time has come,
We’re building the future, for everyone.
People stay ready, there’s a movement to start,
Bring your courage, your fire, your heart.
You don’t need permission, just take your stand,
The power’s in the people, hand in hand.
By Robert Lloyd
When the choice is tyranny or revolution, to keep your head in the sand is to choose tyranny. If you choose revolution the question is nonviolent or violent.
This situation represents a significant threat to democratic institutions and the rule of law, which are fundamental to a functioning democracy
Thorough preparation—medical waivers, property checklists, legal contacts—minimizes harm and maximizes impact…….Organized, pre-notified actions are safer and more effective than spur-of-the-moment protests.
Attorney Jeffry Finer speaks to Spokane Raging Grannies workshop: CLICK LINK Navigating Civil Disobedience
In such a scenario, grassroots movements and civil society organizations face a critical decision: whether to accept the new regime or to resist. Based on historical examples and research on civil resistance, there are several potential courses of action:
Historically, nonviolent revolutions have been more successful and led to more stable democratic outcomes than violent uprisings. Research by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan has shown that nonviolent campaigns are twice as likely to succeed as violent ones.
Strategies for nonviolent revolution could include:
a) Mass Mobilization: Organizing large-scale protests, strikes, and boycotts to demonstrate widespread opposition to the regime. This was effectively used in the Philippines People Power Revolution (1986) and the U.S. Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s).
b) Civil Disobedience: Engaging in coordinated acts of nonviolent resistance, such as sit-ins, blockades, or refusal to pay taxes. The Indian Independence Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi successfully employed these tactics.
c) Alternative Institutions: Creating parallel governance structures or “shadow governments” to challenge the legitimacy of the regime and provide essential services to the population.
d) International Solidarity: Appealing to international organizations and foreign governments for support and sanctions against the regime. This strategy was crucial in the South African Anti-Apartheid Movement.
Even in challenging political environments, there are legal and peaceful methods to resist authoritarianism:
a) Stakeholder Engagement: Identifying and mobilizing key stakeholders who can influence the political process.
b) Effective Communication: Using clear, consistent messaging to articulate grievances and demands.
c) Technology and Social Media: Leveraging digital platforms for organizing, information sharing, and mobilizing support.
d) Educational Interventions: Implementing programs to promote civic engagement and democratic values.
e) Building Trust and Relationships: Establishing networks of trust within communities to strengthen resistance efforts.
Grassroots movements can appeal to international democratic support systems and diplomatic channels:
a) International Organizations: Engaging with bodies like the UN, OSCE, and International IDEA to highlight democratic backsliding and seek support.
b) Foreign Diplomatic Pressure: Encouraging democratic nations to exert diplomatic pressure on the regime, similar to Sweden’s “Drive for Democracy” initiative.
c) NGO Partnerships: Collaborating with international NGOs like Freedom House to document and publicize human rights violations and democratic erosion.
While violent revolution might seem like an option, it’s important to note that:
Related thoughts for your consideration from a Facebook reel:
In the face of democratic breakdown and the rise of authoritarianism, grassroots movements have historically been most successful when employing nonviolent strategies. These strategies, combined with effective civic engagement and international support, offer the best chance for restoring democratic norms and institutions.
The choice between accepting tyranny and forming a revolution is a complex one, with significant consequences. However, the historical record suggests that nonviolent revolutions, when well-organized and widely supported, can be effective in challenging even the most entrenched authoritarian regimes.
It’s crucial for grassroots movements to carefully consider their options, build broad coalitions, and maintain a commitment to nonviolent tactics to maximize their chances of success and minimize the risk of further destabilization or violence.
By Robert Lloyd
When the choice is tyranny or revolution, to keep your head in the sand is to choose tyranny. If you choose revolution the question is nonviolent or violent.
This situation represents a significant threat to democratic institutions and the rule of law, which are fundamental to a functioning democracy.
In such a scenario, grassroots movements and civil society organizations face a critical decision: whether to accept the new regime or to resist. Based on historical examples and research on civil resistance, there are several potential courses of action:
Historically, nonviolent revolutions have been more successful and led to more stable democratic outcomes than violent uprisings. Research by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan has shown that nonviolent campaigns are twice as likely to succeed as violent ones.
Strategies for nonviolent revolution could include:
a) Mass Mobilization: Organizing large-scale protests, strikes, and boycotts to demonstrate widespread opposition to the regime. This was effectively used in the Philippines People Power Revolution (1986) and the U.S. Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s).
b) Civil Disobedience: Engaging in coordinated acts of nonviolent resistance, such as sit-ins, blockades, or refusal to pay taxes. The Indian Independence Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi successfully employed these tactics.
c) Alternative Institutions: Creating parallel governance structures or “shadow governments” to challenge the legitimacy of the regime and provide essential services to the population.
d) International Solidarity: Appealing to international organizations and foreign governments for support and sanctions against the regime. This strategy was crucial in the South African Anti-Apartheid Movement.
Even in challenging political environments, there are legal and peaceful methods to resist authoritarianism:
a) Stakeholder Engagement: Identifying and mobilizing key stakeholders who can influence the political process.
b) Effective Communication: Using clear, consistent messaging to articulate grievances and demands.
c) Technology and Social Media: Leveraging digital platforms for organizing, information sharing, and mobilizing support.
d) Educational Interventions: Implementing programs to promote civic engagement and democratic values.
e) Building Trust and Relationships: Establishing networks of trust within communities to strengthen resistance efforts.
Grassroots movements can appeal to international democratic support systems and diplomatic channels:
a) International Organizations: Engaging with bodies like the UN, OSCE, and International IDEA to highlight democratic backsliding and seek support.
b) Foreign Diplomatic Pressure: Encouraging democratic nations to exert diplomatic pressure on the regime, similar to Sweden’s “Drive for Democracy” initiative.
c) NGO Partnerships: Collaborating with international NGOs like Freedom House to document and publicize human rights violations and democratic erosion.
While violent revolution might seem like an option, it’s important to note that:
In the face of democratic breakdown and the rise of authoritarianism, grassroots movements have historically been most successful when employing nonviolent strategies. These strategies, combined with effective civic engagement and international support, offer the best chance for restoring democratic norms and institutions.
The choice between accepting tyranny and forming a revolution is a complex one, with significant consequences. However, the historical record suggests that nonviolent revolutions, when well-organized and widely supported, can be effective in challenging even the most entrenched authoritarian regimes.
It’s crucial for grassroots movements to carefully consider their options, build broad coalitions, and maintain a commitment to nonviolent tactics to maximize their chances of success and minimize the risk of further destabilization or violence.
When tyranny and revolution appear to be the choices, which do you think we ought to choose? The choice should be made with deep thought. If you keep your head in the sand and refuse to recognize the current conditions, you have chosen tyranny.
By Robert Lloyd
When the choice is tyranny or revolution, to keep your head in the sand is to choose tyranny. If you choose revolution the question is nonviolent or violent.
This situation represents a significant threat to democratic institutions and the rule of law, which are fundamental to a functioning democracy.
In such a scenario, grassroots movements and civil society organizations face a critical decision: whether to accept the new regime or to resist. Based on historical examples and research on civil resistance, there are several potential courses of action:
Historically, nonviolent revolutions have been more successful and led to more stable democratic outcomes than violent uprisings. Research by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan has shown that nonviolent campaigns are twice as likely to succeed as violent ones.
Strategies for nonviolent revolution could include:
a) Mass Mobilization: Organizing large-scale protests, strikes, and boycotts to demonstrate widespread opposition to the regime. This was effectively used in the Philippines People Power Revolution (1986) and the U.S. Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s).
b) Civil Disobedience: Engaging in coordinated acts of nonviolent resistance, such as sit-ins, blockades, or refusal to pay taxes. The Indian Independence Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi successfully employed these tactics.
c) Alternative Institutions: Creating parallel governance structures or “shadow governments” to challenge the legitimacy of the regime and provide essential services to the population.
d) International Solidarity: Appealing to international organizations and foreign governments for support and sanctions against the regime. This strategy was crucial in the South African Anti-Apartheid Movement.
Even in challenging political environments, there are legal and peaceful methods to resist authoritarianism:
a) Stakeholder Engagement: Identifying and mobilizing key stakeholders who can influence the political process.
b) Effective Communication: Using clear, consistent messaging to articulate grievances and demands.
c) Technology and Social Media: Leveraging digital platforms for organizing, information sharing, and mobilizing support.
d) Educational Interventions: Implementing programs to promote civic engagement and democratic values.
e) Building Trust and Relationships: Establishing networks of trust within communities to strengthen resistance efforts.
Grassroots movements can appeal to international democratic support systems and diplomatic channels:
a) International Organizations: Engaging with bodies like the UN, OSCE, and International IDEA to highlight democratic backsliding and seek support.
b) Foreign Diplomatic Pressure: Encouraging democratic nations to exert diplomatic pressure on the regime, similar to Sweden’s “Drive for Democracy” initiative.
c) NGO Partnerships: Collaborating with international NGOs like Freedom House to document and publicize human rights violations and democratic erosion.
While violent revolution might seem like an option, it’s important to note that:
In the face of democratic breakdown and the rise of authoritarianism, grassroots movements have historically been most successful when employing nonviolent strategies. These strategies, combined with effective civic engagement and international support, offer the best chance for restoring democratic norms and institutions.
The choice between accepting tyranny and forming a revolution is a complex one, with significant consequences. However, the historical record suggests that nonviolent revolutions, when well-organized and widely supported, can be effective in challenging even the most entrenched authoritarian regimes.
It’s crucial for grassroots movements to carefully consider their options, build broad coalitions, and maintain a commitment to nonviolent tactics to maximize their chances of success and minimize the risk of further destabilization or violence.
When tyranny and revolution appear to be the choices, which do you think we ought to choose? The choice should be made with deep thought. If you keep your head in the sand and refuse to recognize the current conditions, you have chosen tyranny.
But if you choose revolution the question is nonviolent or violent.
Visit the Empowerment page. It provides examples of how you can be empowered. Feel free to look around 4comculture.com. Please also do research outside of the site.
In times like these, when government may not be supportive of us, it is important that we use every communication vehicle available. Many of us are wondering, what is it that we can do to protect our families and community when our government does not care.
When democracy is being stolen by the elected president and a billionaire that bought him the election what are the tools of resistance that are nonviolent?
When democracy is undermined by an elected leader and powerful financial backers, nonviolent resistance becomes a critical tool for citizens to reclaim their rights and protect democratic institutions. Research and historical evidence show that nonviolent methods are often more effective than violent ones in achieving lasting political and social change. Below are some key tools and strategies for nonviolent resistance:
Organizing peaceful protests and demonstrations is one of the most visible and impactful ways to resist authoritarianism. Large-scale, sustained protests can draw attention to the erosion of democracy and pressure those in power to change course. For example, movements like the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. and the People Power Revolution in the Philippines successfully used mass mobilization to achieve democratic reforms.
Civil disobedience involves deliberately breaking unjust laws or refusing to comply with government policies that undermine democracy. This can include actions like boycotting government programs, refusing to pay fines, or staging sit-ins. Such acts disrupt the normal functioning of an illegitimate regime and highlight its lack of moral authority.
Uniting diverse groups—across political, social, and economic lines—creates a stronger resistance movement. Broad coalitions can amplify the voices of marginalized communities and demonstrate widespread opposition to anti-democratic actions. This approach is emphasized in the “Democracy Playbook,” which outlines strategies for strengthening democratic institutions and resisting illiberal forces [1].
Efforts to protect and expand voting access are crucial in resisting democratic backsliding. This includes fighting voter suppression, ensuring fair elections, and educating citizens about their voting rights. Organizations like the ACLU have highlighted the importance of combating disenfranchisement and ensuring that elections remain free and fair.
Using social media, independent journalism, and other communication tools can help spread awareness, counter disinformation, and mobilize support. Activists can use these platforms to expose corruption, document abuses, and share stories of resistance. However, it is essential to verify information and avoid spreading misinformation, which can undermine the movement’s credibility.
Refusing to cooperate with leaders or institutions that undermine democracy can weaken their power. This can include strikes, boycotts, or resignations from government positions. Non-cooperation disrupts the functioning of an authoritarian regime and demonstrates widespread dissent.
Participating in nonviolent resistance training can equip activists with the skills and strategies needed to resist effectively. Democracy training programs prepare individuals to respond to undemocratic power grabs and organize collective action.
Strengthening and supporting independent institutions, such as the judiciary, media, and civil society organizations, is vital for resisting authoritarianism. These institutions act as checks on power and provide avenues for accountability [1].
Opposition movements often lack the resources to effectively challenge entrenched power. Providing financial and logistical support to these groups can help level the playing field and ensure they are prepared to advocate for democratic governance.
Building alliances with international organizations, governments, and activists can bring global attention to the erosion of democracy and apply external pressure on authoritarian leaders. This can include sanctions, diplomatic efforts, or public campaigns to hold leaders accountable.
Research by Harvard Professor Erica Chenoweth shows that nonviolent resistance is more likely to succeed than violent campaigns. Nonviolent movements are more inclusive, attract broader participation, and are less likely to provoke violent crackdowns that alienate the public.
By employing these tools, citizens can resist the erosion of democracy and work toward restoring a government that reflects the will of the people.
Jerry LeClaire email list:
https://jerrysindivisible.substack.com
Bob Lloyd website
4comculture.com
Cynthia Hamilton’s local librarys discussion groups. Contact her for details. Bugsmind@comcast.net
Washington State Poor People’s Campaign
https://www.washingtonppc.org/
This talk and exhibition was presented to the Spokane South Hill Rotary Club during Black History Month 2025.
The pictures are illustrations of crucifixions. Historically Black men have been crucified. It may have been dying stacked in slave ships, it may have been hanging from a tree during slavery, it may have been jailing after Reconstruction, it may have been in the media, it may have been psychological. The talk that went with these images was about my personal psychological crucifixions.
Women have been crucified through time also, be it body shaming, be it cultural taboos, be it cultural appropriation, be it political correctness.
When your dad gives you millions of dollars you think that they are toys for you to play with. Because you’re rich you think you have access to women that you can fondle, sexually abuse and dominate. You think you can trample on the American flag and on democracy. You’ve been a thug all of your life. Any Black person who did any of these things would have ended up in prison garb.
Robert has always had an interest in social justice, community development and the visual arts. His explorations started with a Brownie Hawkeye camera through digital imaging and Artificial Intelligence Art. He has explored film sizes and materials, printing processes from the mimeograph machine through letter press, offset to inkjet. He’s explored imagery from illustration to the pictorial and the conceptual. This body of work, Eros, was inspired by his wife’s love of the garden and the non-violent teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King and his sermon on love – AGAPE, EROS, PHILIA.
Eros is an aesthetic love of beautiful literature and art. It has also come to mean a romantic love that we experience when we find someone that is attractive and to whom we pour out all of our love.
Robert Lloyd was an organizer and documentary photographer in the Chicago Freedom Movement from 1962-1967. In 1974 he completed an MFA in Design and Photography at California Institute of the Arts and began teaching photography at Eastern Washington University. He founded, directed, and curated The Grand Photography Gallery at Eastern Washington University and The Lloyd Gallery at 123 Arts.
From 1996-2000 he founded and published a community newspaper, the Spokane African American Voice. He retired from Eastern Washington University in 2004 after 30 years of teaching photography and digital imaging. After his retirement he photographed in South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, China and Japan and he photographed for The Black Lens News. His work has been recently exhibited at Washington State University’s Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art in the Black Lives Matter Artist Grant exhibit, Charles Ball in the letter L in the Black Lives Matter Mural in Spokane Washington, and in Our Voices Our Visions, the exhibit he curated for the opening of the Carl Maxey Center featuring 25 BIPOC artists. He can be reached at rdlloyd@comcast.net and website 4comculture.com
Robert J. Lloyd’s portfolios are online at: https://4comculture.com/253-2
Available online in these formats: Premium art papers: 8 1/2 x 11 $ 50.00 11 x 17 $ 75.00 Diptych $100.00 Triptych $125.00 Quadriptych $150.00 Rag or Watercolor Paper or Sunset Canvas w/border: 11 x 14 $100.00 16 x 20 $125.00 20 x 24 $150.00 24 x 36 $200.00 Canvas stretched on #4 bar gallery wrap: 16 x 20 $220.00 18 x 24 $245.00 24 x 36 $450.00 Additional sizes and paper surfaces available. Matting and framing available. Ask for quote. Shipping available additional.
107 S Madison St, Spokane, WA
Robert has always had an interest in social justice, community development and the visual arts. His explorations started with a Brownie Hawkeye camera through digital imaging and Artificial Intelligence Art. He has explored film sizes and materials, printing processes from the mimeograph machine through letter press, offset to inkjet. He’s explored imagery from illustration to the pictoral and the conceptual. This body of work explores Eros and was inspired by his wife’s love of the garden and the non-violent teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King and his sermon on love – AGAPE, EROS, PHILIA.
Eros is an aesthetic love of beautiful literature and art. It has also come to mean a romantic love that we experience when we find someone that is attractive and to whom we pour out all of our love.