This article is inspired by an audit of Dr. King’s unfinished business and a speech given by Michael McPhearson at All Saint’s Lutheran Church in Spokane Washington. The occasion was the commemoration of the the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Category Archives: Empowerment
Clearly Articulate and Live the Future You Want to Create
This article is inspired by an audit of Dr. King’s unfinished business and a speech given by Michael McPhearson at All Saint’s Lutheran Church in Spokane Washington. The occasion was the commemoration of the the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Envisioning and Living the Future
To build a future worthy of our highest hopes we must describe what we seek. We must describe in ways that invite others to join us. This vision isn’t just rhetoric—it’s a lived practice. It means:
- Justice for all and lifting up the disadvantaged must be at the center of our movement.
- We are called to dismantle unjust criminalization systems and insist on equal protection under the law.
- Our vision is not complete until we commit to ending poverty and systemic racism. We also must commit to ending the war economy that perpetuates suffering at home and abroad.
- We must also end ecological devastation, recognizing that justice is inseparable from the health of our planet.
Identifying Allies and Adversaries
Dr. King taught us to discern between those who oppose justice and those who simply differ in approach.
Ask:
- Do we share a vision for a world where the marginalized are protected?
- Are we united in building bridges across lines of division?
- Do we seek to transform the political, economic, and moral structures of society so all can live with dignity?
If we agree on these foundations, even if our strategies diverge, we are not enemies. True opposition lies in those who divide, dehumanize, or deny justice.
Building Unity and Integrity
- Unity is not about erasing differences, but about uniting under a moral narrative that puts people first.
- Our work must be non-partisan and sustained, recognizing that justice is not a one-time event but a continuous struggle.
- Nonviolence is both our method and our message, ensuring our integrity is never undermined by hate.
Living the Principles
It’s easy to talk about justice and peace; it’s harder to live these values every day. We must:
- Include even those who oppose us, for justice and peace must be for all, not just those we like.
- Let love for humanity guide us, using our anger to fuel change, but never letting hate dictate our actions.
A Vision for All
We must unite—across race, religion, ideology, and background—if we share this vision. We are a time when hate, xenophobia, patriarchy, white supremacy, and fascism are on the rise. Our response must be a movement rooted in Dr. King’s principles:
- Justice for all
- Protection for the marginalized
- Unity and nonviolence
- Transformation of society’s core structures
- A deep commitment to sustained, moral action
Closing Thought
We can use our anger to fuel us. However love for humanity must guide us as we build this new world. By grounding ourselves in these 14 principles, we honor Dr. King’s unfinished work and ensure our movement remains both visionary and actionable.
Navigating Civil Disobedience

Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities in Activism
- rights are enforceable in court, not on the street—reserve rights-claims for legal proceedings
- disciplined nonviolence demands no defiance, no evasion, and acceptance of penalties
- organized, pre-notified actions are safer and more effective than spur-of-the-moment protests
- calm, respectful interaction with police reduces force and aids later defense
- thorough preparation—medical waivers, property checklists, legal contacts—minimizes harm and maximizes impact
DETAILS: Navigating Civil Disobedience
Navigating Civil Disobedience
Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities in Activism
A veteran civil rights attorney outlines key legal and practical guidance for protesters. He emphasizes understanding definitions—civil disobedience, “actions,” illegal conduct—and organizing ahead of time rather than relying on spontaneous events. Rights aren’t enforceable on the street; they take effect in court. Drawing on Martin Luther King Jr.’s advice, he urges nonviolent protesters not to defy orders, not to evade arrest, and to accept penalties. He covers interactions with police—knowing when you’re free to go, invoking counsel, and staying calm—and shares jail survival tips: remove jewelry, manage medications, track your property, and communicate respectfully. The talk concludes that preparation, clear objectives, and disciplined nonviolence are essential for safe, effective protest.
Definitions and Early Planning
- Clarify key terms: civil disobedience, “action,” illegal conduct.
- Network organizations to share materials.
- Aim for an organized, well-notified approach: alert police liaisons, medical teams, legal observers.
- Recognize the historical role of spontaneous uprisings—but weigh risks, as poor planning drains resources.
Rights on the Street vs. Rights in Court
- No immediate enforcement of rights if you’re grabbed or arrested on the street.
- Save claims like “You’re violating my rights” for court proceedings.
- Police aren’t required to read Miranda warnings at arrest; they only enable evidence suppression later.
- Key question to police: “Am I free to go?”—a refusal indicates you remain detained.
Interacting with Police
- Stay calm and speak politely, as if de-escalating a toddler’s tantrum.
- Avoid defiance or evasive actions—running or physical resistance allows officers to use force.
- If ordered to disperse and exits are blocked, do not resist arrest; comply now, fight charges later.
- To invoke rights: “I’d like to speak with my lawyer first.” Blame the lawyer for non-cooperation.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s Nonviolent Guidelines
- Three core rules for civil disobedience:
– don’t defy orders
– don’t evade arrest
– accept the penalty - Accepting a penalty means willingly serving fines or jail time to highlight injustice.
- Recognize the changing severity of penalties today compared to the 1960s.
Organizing vs. Spontaneity
- Organized protests involve advance notice, safer conditions, and better liaison with authorities.
- Spontaneous protests carry higher risks: no legal observers, unclear leadership, potential for overreach.
- Historical successes of spontaneous events exist, but luck and context matter heavily.
Phones, Filming, and Evidence
- Authorities gather massive video footage from drones, cameras, phone uploads.
- If filming, stay at a safe distance; zoom in rather than approaching officers.
- Bring a secondary “burner” phone if needed; leave personal device home to protect data.
- Trackers or seized devices may not always be returned intact.
Arrest and Jail Procedures
- Removal of jewelry, watches, piercings; personal items go into a facility basket.
- Inspect returned property immediately—mistakes and losses are common.
- Book-and-release process can take 8+ hours; timing varies by weekdays and holidays.
- Fridays or holiday eves may extend your detention.
Medical and Dietary Concerns in Custody
- Sign the medical information waiver to ensure continuation of vital meds (e.g., blood thinners, insulin).
- Bring prescriptions in original bottles when possible.
- Contracted medical staff in jails may be inexperienced; assert your condition clearly.
- Jail food is bland, nutrient-deficient “cardboard” fare—plan accordingly.
Legal Representation and Post-Arrest Steps
- At booking, public defenders know all immediate procedures—use them for guidance.
- Lawyers can’t intervene until hours after arrest; front-line advice comes from public defender or legal observers.
- Prepare a support team: driver, bail fund, emergency contacts.
- Avoid mixing attorney privilege and witness status—if you witness violence, testify rather than represent.
De-Escalation and Community Support
- Identify trained de-escalators to accompany groups at protests.
- Speak softly, offer factual witnessing: “Sir, you’re hurting that person.”
- Verbal witness can help reduce provocation without risking obstruction charges.
- Use clear messaging on objectives—publicity, legal precedent, policy change—to guide actions.
EMPOWERMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES
ORGANIZATIONS
Local
- SCAR: Spokane Community Against Racism
- PJALS: Peace & Justice Action League of Spokane
- Spokane Indivisible Group Facebook
- Spokane Indivisible Substack
- Indivisible Spokane
- Eastside Gladiators: Be the Change 509 Group Facebook
- Veterans for Peace
- Spokane NAACP
- League of Women Voters
- Spokane 2024 and Beyond – Spokane chapter of Red, Wine & Blue’s TroubleNation
- Nuestras Raices Centro Communitario
- Latinos en Spokane
- Manzinita House Spokane
- Refugee & Immigrant Connections Spokane
- Mujeres in Action
State/Regional
- Washington Indivisible
- Eastern Washington Indivisible: Cynthia Hamilton
- FUSE
- 50501 Movement Washington
National
International
EVENTS
ACTIONS
PUBLICATIONS AND RESOURCES
- https://www.saveusa.me Spokane events and actions to save our country
- Spokane Stands Up
- 4comculture.com: For Building: Community, Empowerment & Culture online posting
PLACES
Who Are the True Believers?



The psychological traits of true believers in mass movements can be observed in the followers of contemporary political figures like Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, and Bernie Sanders.
See the article for details: CLICK HERE
Organizing Effective and Peaceful Protest Training
Pre-Workshop Preparation
-Legal consultation: Connect with civil rights attorneys familiar with local protest laws
-Venue selection: Choose accessible locations with proper facilities
-Materials: Prepare handouts on legal rights, emergency contacts, and safety protocols
Workshop Agenda Structure
Session 1: Legal Rights and Responsibilities (60 minutes)
- Know your constitutional rights (1st Amendment protections)
- Understanding permit requirements and legal protest zones
- Interaction protocols with law enforcement
- Legal observer roles and documentation
- What to do if arrested
Session 2: Nonviolent Resistance Principles (45 minutes)
- Historical context and effectiveness of peaceful protest
- De-escalation techniques
- Maintaining discipline under pressure
- Building coalition and inclusive messaging
Session 3: Safety and Security (45 minutes)
- Personal safety protocols
- Communication systems and emergency contacts
- Identifying potential risks and exit strategies
- Medical considerations and first aid basics
- Digital security and privacy protection
Session 4: Effective Organization and Messaging (60 minutes)
- Clear goal setting and achievable objectives
- Media engagement and public communication
- Social media strategy and documentation
- Building sustainable movements
- Coordination with other groups
Session 5: Practical Scenarios and Role-Playing (45 minutes)
- Simulated interactions with counter-protesters
- Practice with media interviews
- Response to various law enforcement scenarios
- Group decision-making under pressure
Key Training Components
Facilitator Requirements:
- Experienced organizers or civil rights advocates
- Legal experts familiar with protest law
- Conflict resolution specialists
- Community leaders with grassroots experience
Follow-up Support:
- Ongoing legal hotline access
- Regular check-ins with participants
- Resource sharing networks
- Mental health and trauma support
The most effective protest training emphasizes peaceful, legal, and strategic action while ensuring participants understand both their rights and responsibilities as citizens engaging in democratic processes.
Who Are the True Believers?
The Psychological Makeup of the “True Believer” in Eric Hoffer’s Book
Eric Hoffer’s “The True Believer: Thoughts on the Nature of Mass Movements” (1951) is a seminal work that examines the psychology of individuals who become deeply committed to mass movements, whether political, religious, or social. Hoffer’s analysis focuses on the motivations and characteristics of these “true believers” and the conditions that make mass movements thrive.
Key Psychological Traits of the True Believer
1. Discontent with the Present Self: True believers often feel a deep dissatisfaction with their personal lives. They see themselves as ineffectual, powerless, or insignificant and seek to escape this reality by merging their identity with a larger cause or movement [1]. Hoffer argues that this dissatisfaction drives people to seek meaning and purpose in something external, often leading them to embrace ideologies that promise radical change.
2. Desire for Certainty and Simplicity: True believers are drawn to movements that offer clear, black-and-white answers to complex problems. They crave certainty and are often intolerant of ambiguity or nuance.
3. Willingness to Sacrifice Individuality: Hoffer notes that true believers are willing to subordinate their individuality to the collective identity of the movement. This allows them to feel part of something greater than themselves, which can be empowering but also leads to fanaticism.
4. Frustration and Resentment:!Many true believers harbor feelings of frustration and resentment, often directed at society, elites, or other groups they perceive as responsible for their struggles. This resentment fuels their commitment to the movement and their willingness to fight for its goals.
5. Faith in a Glorious Future: True believers are often motivated by a vision of a utopian future promised by the movement. This vision gives them hope and a sense of purpose, even if it requires sacrificing the present [2].
6. Susceptibility to Leadership: Hoffer emphasizes that true believers are often drawn to charismatic leaders who embody the ideals of the movement and provide a sense of direction and unity.
Comparison to Modern “True Believers”
The psychological traits Hoffer identified remain relevant today and can be observed in the followers of contemporary political figures like Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, and Bernie Sanders. While the specific ideologies and movements differ, the underlying motivations and behaviors of their most ardent supporters often align with Hoffer’s analysis.
- Donald Trump: Many of Trump’s most devoted supporters exhibit traits of true believers, such as a strong desire for certainty, resentment toward perceived elites, and faith in Trump’s promises to “Make America Great Again.” His charismatic leadership and ability to channel frustration into a cohesive movement resonate with Hoffer’s description of mass movement dynamics.
- Kamala Harris and Barack Obama: Supporters of Harris and Obama often emphasize their hope for a more inclusive and equitable future. While their movements may not exhibit the same level of fanaticism as others, the faith in their leadership and vision for change reflects some of the psychological traits Hoffer described, particularly the desire for a better future and identification with a collective cause [2].
- Bernie Sanders: Sanders’ supporters often align with Hoffer’s analysis of frustration and resentment, particularly toward economic inequality and corporate power. His movement’s focus on systemic change and a vision of a more just society appeals to those seeking meaning and purpose through collective action.
Key Differences in Modern Contexts
While the psychological makeup of true believers remains consistent, modern mass movements are shaped by new factors:
- Social Media: Platforms like Twitter and Facebook amplify the reach of mass movements, allowing true believers to connect and organize more easily. This can intensify the sense of belonging and reinforce ideological echo chambers.
- Polarization: Modern politics is highly polarized, which can deepen the divide between opposing groups of true believers and increase the intensity of their commitment.
- Polarization: Modern politics is highly polarized, which can deepen the divide between opposing groups of true believers and increase the intensity of their commitment.
- Diverse Ideologies: Unlike the mid-20th century, today’s mass movements span a broader range of ideologies, from progressive to conservative, reflecting the complexity of modern societies.
Conclusion
Eric Hoffer’s insights into the psychology of the true believer remain strikingly relevant in understanding the dynamics of modern mass movements. Whether supporting Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, or Bernie Sanders, true believers today share many of the same psychological traits Hoffer identified: dissatisfaction with the present, faith in a better future, and a willingness to subordinate individuality to a collective cause. However, the tools and contexts of modern movements—such as social media and political polarization—have added new dimensions to the phenomenon.
Open Letter to Our Spokane Community

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.
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.
Read the first article in the Fighting Fear series:
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.
Why Are People So Afraid That They Choose Tyranny Over Democracy





During the last few weeks millions have taken to US streets in urban, suburban and rural communities. They came to express their disapproval of the direction the government is moving. But why are so many others so afraid that they would choose a dictatorship, a monarchy or a strongman government? How can this be changed?
- Why these fears?
- Why Blacks will resist the loss of democracy
- What needs to be done?
- How can we do it?
why these fears?
This is a complex sociological and political question. Let’s break down the various fears and concerns that may influence support for authoritarian or strongman leaders.
Economic and Class-Based Fears
Working Class Concerns:
- Fear of continued economic displacement due to globalization and automation
- Anxiety about declining manufacturing jobs and wage stagnation
- Concerns about being “left behind” by rapid economic changes
- Fear of losing social status and economic security
Middle Class Anxieties:
- Worry about downward mobility for their children
- Healthcare cost concerns
- Education affordability fears
- Housing market pressures
Cultural and Social Fears
Demographic Change Anxiety:
- Fear of becoming a minority in traditionally majority-white communities
- Concerns about rapid cultural change
- Language and cultural preservation worries
- Immigration-related anxieties
Traditional Values Concerns:
- Fear of erosion of traditional family structures
- Religious freedom concerns
- Worry about changing gender roles and expectations
Demographic Breakdown
By Race/Ethnicity:
-White Americans (particularly rural/suburban): Higher rates of support often correlate with fears of demographic displacement, economic competition, and cultural change
-Hispanic Americans: Mixed patterns, with some supporting strong immigration enforcement due to economic competition concerns
-Black Americans: Generally lower support, but some concerns about economic competition and traditional values
-Asian Americans: Varied responses, with some supporting merit-based policies and law-and-order approaches
By Gender:
-Men: Often drawn to strongman imagery and promises of restored traditional masculine roles
-Women: More complex patterns, with some attracted to security promises while others concerned about reproductive rights and gender equality
By Age:
-Older Americans: Concerns about rapid social change and nostalgia for perceived “simpler times”
-Younger Americans: Generally less supportive, but some attracted to anti-establishment messaging
LGBTQ+ Community Considerations
The LGBTQ+ community generally show slower support for authoritarian movements due to:
- Historical persecution under authoritarian regimes
- Concerns about rollback of civil rights protections
- Fear of discrimination and marginalization
However, some subset concerns include:
-Security fears (particularly after incidents like the Pulse nightclub shooting)
-Economic anxieties that may override other concerns
-Single-issue voting on topics like immigration or taxes
Psychological and Social Factors
Authoritarian Personality Traits:
- Preference for order and hierarchy
- Discomfort with ambiguity and complexity
- Desire for clear, simple solutions
- Attraction to strong leadership figures
Social Identity Threats:
- Fear of group status decline
- In-group/out-group thinking
- Zero-sum worldview (believing others’ gains mean their losses)
Media and Information Environment
-Echo chambers reinforcing existing fears
-Disinformation amplifying perceived threats
-Social media algorithms promoting divisive content
-Declining trust in traditional institutions
Important Caveats
1.Individual variation: People within demographic groups have diverse views
2.Multiple motivations: Support often stems from combinations of factors
3.Context matters: Local conditions significantly influence attitudes
4.Temporal changes: These patterns shift over time with events and generational change
Why Blacks will Resist the loss of democracy
The fight against authoritarianism represents a continuation of a centuries-long struggle for true democratic participation and protection under law. CLICK HERE
Fighting Fear Articles
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.