Bondi & Patel Send FBI to Arrest Spokane Candidate’s Son
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SPOKANE: LET’S FOLLOW THE MARCHES WITH ACTIONS
Millions of people marching in the streets across the United States and 10,000 – 20,000 marching here in Spokane. 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
SUBSCRIBE: If you want suggestions on what we must do in addition to protesting in the streets, subscribe to 4comculture.com. Go to the top of the sidebar and send us your email address.
Millions Marched
By Robert Lloyd
October 18th millions marched. They said NO TRUMP! In order to stop tyranny now what do you want to do?
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.
The Scenario
- A presidential candidate has won the election and gained control over all branches of government.
- The new administration refuses to follow court rulings and historical norms.
- Democratic processes and checks and balances have broken down.
- The leadership style is modeled after authoritarian regimes like Russia, North Korea, and China.
This situation represents a significant threat to democratic institutions and the rule of law, which are fundamental to a functioning democracy.
Can We Trust This Man?
Options for Grassroots Movements
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:
Nonviolent revolutions have endured longer
- Nonviolent Revolution
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.
- Civic Engagement and Grassroots Organizing
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.
- Seeking International Support
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.
Violent Revolution as a Last Resort
While violent revolution might seem like an option, it’s important to note that:
- Violent uprisings are statistically less likely to succeed than nonviolent movements.
- They often lead to prolonged conflict and instability.
- Violent revolutions can delegitimize the movement in the eyes of both domestic and international observers.
- They may provide justification for increased repression by the regime.
Conclusion
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.
If you want suggestions on what we must do in addition to protesting in the streets, subscribe to 4comculture.com. Go to the top of the sidebar and send us your email address.
Burma Shave style NO KINGS signs
Here’s a Burma-Shave-style series of signs with a **social justice theme**, ending with the message “No Kings.” Each line would appear on a separate sign, spaced out along a road:
Equal rights
For every voice
Justice fair
Should be the choice
No Kings
They hold the crown
You hold the load
Stand together
Change the road
No Kings
The power’s yours
It’s in your hands
Build a world
That truly stands
No Kings
Truth and love
Will light the way
No one rules
We all have say
No Kings
Each set of signs uses the rhythmic, rhyming style of the original Burma-Shave ads while conveying social justice themes like equality, collective power, and rejecting authoritarianism or hierarchical rule. The final line, “No Kings” delivers a punchy, memorable conclusion in the same way Burma-Shave signs ended with their product name.
Maybe you would like to add these to your protest signs.
Write your own rhyming verses and share them with us in a comment below.
Charles Thomas would like to have a discussion with you.
“Everything depends on something else.” – unknown
What is Linguistic Imperialism? Linguistic imperialism refers to the dominance of one language over others, typically through the spread and establishment of the dominant language by colonial, economic, or cultural means. It often results in the marginalization of local languages and cultures.
Why and who benefits?
“We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them” – Einstein
“No freedom before you first get free from the mental categories of those who would hold you in bondage.” – Ogunnaike
Create it in your mind.
Create it in your words.
Create It in your actions. – Unknown.
If you would like to have a discussion with Charles he can be contacted at performance2080@gmail.com
Clearly Articulate and Live the Future
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.
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
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
Social Media Platforms in Protests & Civil Disobedience
Social media platforms are central tools in organizing, amplifying, and documenting protest movements, including both legal demonstrations and acts of civil disobedience. Their influence extends to nearly every phase of modern activism.
Key Functions of Social Media in Protests
Organization and Mobilization
- Rapid Communication: Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram enable instant alerts and updates to large audiences.
- Event Coordination: Details about protest times, locations, and changes can be distributed quickly.
- Recruitment: Movements reach new supporters, often beyond traditional activist circles.
Information Sharing
- Education: Infographics, videos, and threads explain protest goals, legal rights, and safety tips.
- Real-Time Updates: Live streams and posts provide on-the-ground news, especially when mainstream media coverage is lacking.
- Resource Distribution: Legal aid contacts, medical help, or transportation details are easily shared.
Public Awareness and Narrative Control
- Framing the Message: Movements can frame their demands and actions, independently of government or traditional media narratives.
- Viral Content: Hashtags and viral posts can bring national or global attention to local issues quickly.
Documentation and Evidence
- Recording Events: Videos and photos document both peaceful protest and any incidents of violence or repression.
- Accountability: Livestreams and real-time sharing can deter misconduct by authorities and provide evidence for legal defense.
Solidarity and Morale
- Community Building: Supporters express solidarity, encourage one another, and build a sense of collective purpose.
- International Support: Protests in one country can inspire or support similar movements elsewhere. Risks and Challenges
Surveillance and Infiltration
- Monitoring: Law enforcement may monitor public posts or infiltrate private groups.
- Data Collection: Social media data can be used in prosecutions or to target activists.
Disinformation and Smear Campaigns
- False Narratives: Opponents may spread misinformation or attempt to discredit the movement.
- Trolling and Harassment: Activists may face online abuse or threats.
Privacy Concerns
- Doxxing: Personal information may be exposed.
- Platform Policies: Posts or accounts can be removed, limiting reach or erasing documentation. Best Practices for Protesters on Social Media
- Use Encrypted Messaging Apps: For sensitive coordination, prefer Signal, Telegram (private chats), or similar platforms.
- Limit Location Sharing: Disable geotags and avoid posting live locations unless necessary.
- Use Pseudonyms: Protect personal identity where possible.
- Fact-Check Information: Prevent spread of rumors or unverified claims.
- Backup Important Content: Download key videos/photos in case accounts are suspended or content is removed. Conclusion
Social media is a double-edged sword: It empowers protest movements with unprecedented coordination and amplification, but also exposes activists to risks. Effective protest training now always includes a section on digital security, smart communication, and narrative control through social media.
Tuesday reflections
Tuesday reflections are simple yet profound reflecting different aspects of humanity
