The rise of authoritarianism and fascism in America--AGAIN
What to know and what we can do
Issue #297 OpEd April 10, 2023
We tried to tell people in 2015 when Trump started his presidential campaign by coming down an elevator while calling Mexicans rapists.
Barack and Hillary tried to warn people in 2016 when Trump was the official Republican nominee.
We chafed when people believed the lies about Hillary and either voted for a 3rd Party candidate or "voted their conscience" in 2016.
It was obvious when Trump hugged an American flag onstage and declared that “Only I can fix this.
We knew it when Trump enacted his "Muslim ban" and called Black African and Latin countries "shit-hole countries."
Remember during the 2008 presidential election when Senator Obama said: “I am not the one you’re waiting for, WE are the ones we’re waiting for…”?
Trump even tried to eviscerate the Constitution to keep himself in power.
There have always been pockets of authoritarianism and fascism throughout U.S. history, but over the past several years these anti-democratic policies have not only risen again but are becoming more and more out in the open.
If you haven't already, I strongly encourage you to listen to the excellent podcast, "Ultra," by MSNBC's Dr. Rachel Maddow. Over eight hour-long episodes, she outlines authoritarianism and fascism in the 1940s which is eerily similar to what is happening today.
I also recommend that you read an excellent (as usual) commentary by Substack writer and historian Dr. Heather Cox Richardson. In yesterday's article, she describes what happened when General Ulysses S. Grant was "nice to" the defeated Confederates, wrongly thinking that they would just change and come to believe in equality for all.
Please make sure to view and act on the important information at the end of this article to help support “We Are Speaking.” Thank you!
What you should know about authoritarianism and fascism and what we can do:
Fascism and authoritarianism both represent a significant threat to our democratic values and the fundamental principles upon which our country was founded.
Fascism is a far-right political ideology that originated in Italy in the early 20th century. The word "fascism" comes from the Italian word "fascio," which means "bundle." Historically, a "fascio" referred to a bundle of sticks tied together, symbolizing strength in unity. Fascism is characterized by a strong emphasis on national unity, authoritarianism, and the suppression of individual rights and freedoms.
Authoritarianism, on the other hand, is a more general term that refers to a form of government where power is concentrated in the hands of an individual or group, with little if any regard for the will of the people. This can take many forms, ranging from military dictatorships to one-party states.
In recent years, we have seen a rise in authoritarian tendencies around the world, with leaders who seek to consolidate power and undermine democratic institutions.
While fascism and authoritarianism are distinct political ideologies, they share some common characteristics. They both rely on a strong leader figure who claims to represent the will of the people. They emphasize the power of the state over individual rights, and they are often associated with violence against political opponents and suppression of dissent.
We must seek to preserve and strengthen our democratic institutions, including a free press and an independent judiciary.
We must not be silent in the face of attacks on the rule of law or democratic norms, as is happening in America right now.
The rise of fascism and authoritarianism can be fueled by fear and hatred, which can lead to the scapegoating of minorities and other marginalized groups.
Instead, we must seek to understand and address the root causes of social and economic inequality that can give rise to these dangerous ideologies.
We know that the United States of America was founded and built upon racism and white supremacy, but this is different and even more dangerous.
In conclusion, fascism and authoritarianism are not just abstract political concepts – they are real threats to our democratic way of life.
You can always leave any questions in the comments or email us.
This article is free to access for 7 days after publication. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5/month or less to access all of the articles and other benefits.
This is your chance to support everything Keith and Pam do. We appreciate you!
Purchase and download your copy of the “Branding And Marketing For The Rest Of Us” eBook for Independent Authors and Creative and Solo Professionals.
Enroll in one of the 6-course bundles designed especially for you: “Author and Book Marketing” and/or “Essential Creative Marketing.”
Purchase your copies of “Detroit Stories Quarterly” issues.
What else do Keith and Pam do?
Where else can you find us?
Click the link below to learn everything you need to know and review everything we offer for independent writers and creative and solo professionals.