Re: “Chicago prepares for an influx of National Guard troops and immigration agents” (Sept. 3, Nation):
It’s plain that the provocation of our administration will proceed to brush from metropolis to metropolis. For ethical liberal Individuals, no recreation plan exists moreover the textbook reactionary outraged response that falls into the clutches of conservative shops as a pinup poster with out fail.
Henry David Thoreau wrote “Civil Disobedience” 176 years in the past and mentioned sheer protest isn’t sufficient. Traditionally, protesting has been profitable, however our latest outrage solely by itself could have contributed to the very spot we’re in now. We have now seen that outdated playbook fail.
A contemporary-day Thoreau would promulgate resistance through tact and effectiveness. In different phrases, don’t give fodder, don’t vandalize, don’t be violent — don’t destroy. As an alternative, make use of your native hourly staff for these family and yard work duties (when in a position), donate to meals banks and your native charities strategically, grow to be a mentor, clear up trash in your neighborhood, and write letters.
Thoreau’s method symbolizes one thing that American liberals at present lack — a proactive mindset. If Thoreau had the foresight for a playbook of true resistance in 1849, we may borrow a web page and try for better outcomes. Lastly and most significantly, keep off the information.
Zach DeStefano, Seattle
