When I—having whistleblown about corruption in Zimbabwe’s banks— did not allow myself to be intimidated by Mugabe’s ‘secret police’ (who disappeared people), I could do it only because I had unshakeable faith. I believed unequivocally that I was doing the right thing, and that God protects the righteous. And yes, I was protected—no physical harm came to me. But the psychological impact was still profound; I struggled to even speak about it until recent days.
But I had no support network, not one person beside me. So I would say 2 things:
1. If you’re not going to back down, draw people around you. Act as a member of a group, if possible— not because action can’t/ won’t be taken against a group, but because you will always—always!—have one another for support. The bonds that are forged in such a situation are never broken. And if you can’t act as a member of a group, draw your family and close friends near. Make sure they understand why you feel you need to act, and bring them alongside. Standing up to tyranny if your family is against it is an impossible situation to be in, especially if you don’t have faith.
2. If you are a person of faith, build it. For me that was repeating scriptures like, ‘If God is for me, who can be against me?’ Find the ones that speak to you, and repeat them to yourself. They will give you solace through the darkest times.
Ps. Sorry to keep banging-on about what happened Zimbabwe. It’s only to give context to any reader who might be in the position of having to make this choice, and who thinks, ‘What do you know?’ I know what you’re facing, believe me, I know.
Lori, don't apologize! It is important for all of us to know what others did with nasty regimes like the orange man's. Any help you can give to help us get through this is very much appreciated!
Lori said, but I’ll try to go back and read more when things are not so blurry. I am thankful for people speaking out and for people getting kind support.
Not sure if you're 'me too' was for a heads-up from me, Joan. (I struggle to untangle all these threads of conversation!) If it wasn't, my apologies - it's absolutely not my attention to self-promote.
Covid hit the Republican Southeast states hard, the old Confederacy, plus Wyoming and Idaho who were unvaccinated. The same states were subjected to a barrage of claims that Covid was created by China to destroy the United States, the vaccine was invented by state authorities who want to control you, or maybe Bill Gates who wants to put a chip in your head, as well as Trump's claims.
Scare someone, and you distract him from the real danger. The real danger we face is the billionaire cartel, not white displacement, not transgender ideology, not even fentanyl. We should also beware of own destructive impulses. Destroying "the deep state" may be fun, but what comes after it?
Can most decidedly help, and should not be discounted.
I agree about religion, but differently. I think of it as a wedge that may remind them of a time before hate, when the messages from Jesus about love actually mattered to them. (Specifically, Sermon on the Mont and the like (which may not be included in the Bible for much longer.))
Interesting how our scriptures might be 'edited' by this regime. I imagine the Beatitudes, the Sermon on the Mount, the parables and especially Jesus' scolding of the hypocritical collaborators with Rome, the Pharaisees would get the ax. Oh, and the moneylenders in the Temple bit, too.
Leigh, heck, they already have a "prosperity gospel to let their rich supposedly christian friends think their wealth came from god and made them special and able to do whatever they want with their wealth. After all, those other people are spawns of Satan (or some other such BS). It just proves money or rather love of money is the root of all evil and does corrupt people even people who think it won't. Instead of the word corrupt, they have substituted "holy."
Susan, I am not sure Calvin would have thought this crop of rich guys was of God. I suspect he would have been condemning them for the way they pretend to be christian while not in any way living Jesus' message. He believed one's wealth, prosperity came from doing good, not from cheating, stealing, undermining, misinforming, etc.
Yep, the prosperity gospel is the child of Calvin for sure.
Calvinism and orthodox Judaism share the same idea of pre destination, the elect. One is born favored by god or not, and they way to tell is by ones wealth. The wealthy are favored by god.
Rockefeller, Carnegie, Mellon, the robber barons were Calvinists.
Today you don't have to be a believer to be a Calvinist. The world has moved on from the secular to the sectarian, because Calvinism has moved beyond the bounds of religion.
Perhaps it started with the Horatio Alger myth, or Manifest Destiny. Most likely with the missionaries of the Great Awakening
Repeating scriptures was my starting point, because I came from quite a conservative Christian home and at that point, it was all I knew. My perspective now is both narrower- in that for me, the core of Christianity is Christ's message of love for one another - and wider, in that while I no longer identify as 'Christian' given what Christianity has now been perverted to become, that central tenet is the one I live my life by. And while I might no longer identify as 'Christian' per se, I can still speak fluent 'Christian-ese'.
So, no, we don't think differently about it at all, ARF— we are kindred, and I'm happy to have found you.
This community is very important to me now, and I'm grateful to have found it. (Though as a long-time fan of Dr. Reich, it was bound to happen. I'm just sorry it needed to be found, at a time of such critical need for every resident of Earth.)
It's not easy, but it wasn't meant to be. (And I doubt I was any easier when she was providing me with a comparable level of care about 65 years ago.) Despite being cared for by hospice, she's actually eating enough to be gaining weight. We'll both be around for a while yet, I'm pretty sure.
I realize there are things I can't learn in any other manner, so I try to pay attention.
We'll make it, because we have no choice. And I will see Orange Haystack in the ground before I leave this world (not in person, but over the internet, like everyone else.)
Lori, you might enjoy reading Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell.mmIt came out in 1948 but I believe is still relevant for those who support the basi tenants taught by Jesus and many others regarding what it means to be a good person,
Wow. The problem with Zimbabwe is Mugabe lasted forever. Most only last 10 years. Sad that these African leaders can be the most corrupt. Amin, Bokassa, Mugabe. The list goes on.
You are so very strong, Lori! Your words are a rallying call for all of us! The verse I keep repeating to myself is from Amos 5:24 "But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!" When I repeat it, it calms me because I know justice will come for this regime and right will always prevail.
Peggy, My verse is from Micah, "We know what is required of us: to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God." I end every service I preach with it.
That's a beautiful verse, Ruth! It is especially fitting in the time we are in. Doing justice (correctly and not for revenge) is so important! I want to see that orange smear pay the consequences for trying to destroy our country! All of his lapdogs, too! Loving kindness may not be in everyone's DNA code; however, being kind to everyone is important. There are always going to be bad people in this world, but we must never, ever allow them to be in positions that will cause hurt and harm to others! I don't think republicans/magas know how to walk humbly with their god. They scream Armageddon and end times constantly and act like they cannot wait for it to happen! I made the mistake of telling a maga person that the book of Revelations was written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos and was high on Morning Glory. Historians throughout time have argued and discussed this. Whether he was an apostle or just John from the island of Patmos, I believe many evangelical white christians have interpreted his writing incorrectly. Needless to say, that maga thinks I am a heathen!
Agreed, Peggy. (Not on the 'heathen' part, obviously, but on John's writing having been misinterpreted.)
Also, believing that the end times are imminent has been a recurring theme of Christianity almost since the beginning. Paul's letters hint that Christ's followers should expect it in their lifetime. And then there was the Black Death, the Reformation, the Millerite movement etc etc.— they all believed they were living in the end times. Yet here we still are.
I think that's what's majorly concerning about many evangelical MAGA Christians, is that not only do they believe in The Rapture— they're actively trying to bring it about.
Lori, yes, their trying to bring about the end times is rather frightening. They think they will all end up in some kind of paradise while they live in direct opposition to Jesus' teachings. There is a major disconnect with their position. Maybe we should push them a bit that maybe what they are doing will not earn them a place in heaven, trying to deliberately destroy God's world.
I don't know Ruth. I do know that when someone tries to push me towards adopting their perspective, I tend to either dig-in or push back.
In Zim (sorry-again) I learned the power of forgiveness, and the incomparable power of love —especially when we extend it towards those we wholly believe do not deserve it. Then it becomes love, amplified by sacrifice. And without putting ourselves in the firing line, the results can— literally— be miraculous.
Absolutely agree, Lori! My God did not want his people to live constantly expecting their time on earth to end. I believe He wanted us to use the time we have on earth to live in His way and to follow His teachings. I do try every day to live a good life. I have to ask forgiveness many times for my foul mouth, but I do try to live by the Golden Rule. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I feel bad for those that are so consumed with wanting The Rapture to happen they aren't living their lives! As I have explained to God, I am not ready to go yet. There are still an awful lot of things I want to do!
In my early twenties, I reached a point where I wasn't interested in the 'hereafter' stuff. I figured I wouldn't know if the hereafter stuff was true 'til I was dead, and that seemed like such a waste of life.
Meanwhile, none of the stuff I was being taught by my church about the here-and-now held water— again and again God's promises seemed to fall flat. So either God was lying (impossible!) or we'd got something wrong somewhere. I wanted to know what. I wanted God to teach me about the here-and-now!And then God showed up, and taught me. ❤️
Peggy, you are right about the book of Revelation. It is like a drug dream and was definitely never meant to be the roadmap to the end of the world. People loved it, so it got included in the "New Testament" but the men meeting to decide knew it was not really a legitimate work beyond being a fantasy, but they approved it anyway. It is kind of like the way the book of "Esther," most likely historical fiction, was sealed into the Hebrew Scriptures in 90 C.E. (AD). People loved it and with Purim being such a treasured feast day, the book couldn't be dropped. Your MAGA friend did not like being shown up as ignorant of the facts, but you, alas, can't be responsible for people's desperate need/desire to be right. Wouldn't it be great if the person went off to do some research and was willing to openly talk with you about it?
Gosh, Ruth! That would not only be a surprise but it would be a shock! I love to read the history of the Bible. It is very interesting. My sister is always the first one to speak up and say "The Bible was written and interpreted by men! Naturally, they put their own spin on it!" As a young girl, I belonged to G.A.'s (girls auxillary) at my church. One requirement was to memorize Bible scripture. To this day, I can still recite 1 Corinthians, Chapter 13 which is one of my favorites!
Peggy, I, too, like I Corinthians 13. Unfortunately, Paul did go off the deep end when it came to women. I am thinking women may have scared him as we do so many men, so they just must pass laws to keep us under control, then pump out all kinds of disinformation to tell women how we should be married to our house as much as to our hubby and that anything that went wrong related to our children was our fault, OK, so was nearly everything else that went wrong so we could be burned as witches, beaten, raped, etc., etc. The message is powerful and has ensnared billions of women over the millennia. It is that kind of male rule that has put so much of our planet at risk and so many of our lives, and continues its relentless march right now as DEI and other programs that have helped women to rise are being scorned and eliminated. Yep, scared white men here but scared men of all colors around the world!
Peggy, thank you so much! Also, it seems that if a number of people have changed, by their behaviors or their words, or even by changing biblical text without divine permission, or if they have changed what they claim being a Christian is, and I have not changed from shat I was taught, know. and feel, then I still am Christian. Only they have changed, except for the name they still claim. Their changed definition does not change who I am, and I do not need to change to fit their strange claims.
The quotation coming to me is, “Render unto God what is God‘s. Render into Caesar, what is Caesar's.” Maybe I reversed the order, but it seems important to remember.
Lori, i am so moved by your posts, especially learning more of your story. I can see that all hardship and suffering you endured has prepared you for a new mission: to be a mentor to anyone on this planet willing to step forward against evil and tyranny.
Thank you for sharing your experience, and for your wise advice. You were able to keep your faith, because you knew that your cause was just. That gave you a strength your enemies lacked. You are a hero, and I hope that you will write a book about your experience.
Thank you for your very kind words Victor, but I am no more a hero than any of you who are stepping up in your own way, to find a way forward. I salute each and every one of you, and will do everything I can to support you.
"In a surprising moment of candour at the ZANU–PF congress in December 2014, President Robert Mugabe accidentally let slip that the opposition had in fact won the contentious 2008 polls by an astounding 73%.[97] After winning the election, the Mugabe ZANU–PF government re-instituted one party rule,[95] doubled the civil service and, according to The Economist, embarked on "misrule and dazzling corruption".[94] A 2017 study conducted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) concluded that due to the deterioration of government and the economy "the government encourages corruption to make up for its inability to fund its own institutions" with widespread and informal police roadblocks to issue fines to travellers being one manifestation of this.[98]"
I wanted to give people more information on what was going on in Zimbabwe and so I zeroed in on what I thought might be the period you were talking about.
Also, there are enormous differences in the conditions of Zimbabwe in the 2000s and the US of today. But yes, our challenges in the US going forward are immense.
This is not meant to detract from your excellent remarks.
Indeed, there are enormous differences, but I am nonetheless concerned by the reach and resources of Trump and his regime, and the potential global impact, which could never have been said of Mugabe. That and the similar motives (in Mugabe's latter days) of personal power, money and control, no matter the cost to the country's people, economy or stability.
Octogenarians Unite! You have the experience that few other groups can call on. Your family endured the horrors of WWII. You saw students gunned down for protesting. You saw or perhaps were beaten bloody for peacefully protesting apartheid in South Africa and here in the American South. You and your friends were sent to Vietnam to fight an unjust war. You lost friends and brothers in that war. You saw a President declare he was not a criminal because if a President does it, it is not illegal. Then you saw him resign in order to avoid impeachment and conviction. Against all odds, you are still here. So rise up, gather your friends, use your influence, stop the insanity now accelerating in Washington DC. Rich S, Octogenarian, Contrarian and tired of the spineless "representatives"
Fear has been caused by the failure of Democrats to enforce the law and stop the illegal insurrection by Trump and Republicans that was revealed on Jan 6 and has continued after Trump became president. The insurrection is destroying democracy, the rule of law, and Constitution rights. Saving democracy as a government of the people, by the people, and for the people requires more than voting or protesting. "We the people" must tell politicians what they need to do with specific actions including new laws. Rich people do it - and now "we the people" need to do it.
The first step for “we the people” to effectively fight is recognizing there is a legal solution to stop the illegal insurrection. The ongoing insurrection violates federal law (18 U.S. Code § 2383) which states a felony crime is committed by “whoever assists or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof or gives aid or comfort thereto shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States”.
The second step for “we the people” to effectively fight is demanding Democrats in government implement the legal solution.
The solution can begin to be quickly implemented by Democrats enacting and enforcing a new state law modeled after the federal law (18 U.S. Code § 2383) in 7 states where Democrats control the state government. California could be the first state to enact and enforce the law within 90 days which would remove the 9 Republican representatives from California in the Congressional House. The House would then have a Democratic majority of 224 to 209 with Jefferies as Speaker of the House to control the budget and make sure Ukraine and Medicaid are fully funded and there will be no tax cuts for the rich. Maryland, New Jersey and Colorado could follow to collectively remove another 8 Republican representatives in the House and then also remove 4 conservative justices from the Supreme Court changing the Court to 3 liberals and 2 conservatives to block any more conservative Court actions favorable to Trump, Republicans, and oligarchs.
The Constitution in Article I, Section 6, Clause 1 allows members of Congress to be arrested, indicted, and convicted for the felony crime of insurrection that violates state law enforced with imprisonment up to ten years with mandatory permanent removal and prevention from holding office.
The Constitution does not establish judicial immunity for any judge including federal judges or Supreme Court Justices. Therefore, Supreme Court Justices can be arrested, indicted, and convicted for the felony crime of insurrection and enforced with imprisonment up to ten years and mandatory permanent removal and prevention from holding office.
It appears that Democrats in Congress had neither the will nor the fortitude to put an end to the insurrection and the re-emergence of trump when they had a chance - no thanks to the traitors on the supreme court and collaborators like Aileen Cannon.
That Dems could be successful now, with both hands tied behind their back, is a stretch given this regime seems averse to the rule of law. However, I like your proposal, I hope you have the ear of influential Dems willing to take some meaningful counter action that draws attention to the subversive acts undertaken by these traitors . What's there to lose at this point (heavy sigh).
Judith - Democratic governors, attorney generals and legislatures controlled by Democrats in blue states seem to be much better fighters and enforcers of the law than compromised and weak Democrats in the federal government
William,great post. Can you get the message across to the pols in the 7 states to consider this possibility. If this is as easy as you imply,why isn't something being done?Do they know about (18 U.S. Code 2383).Does the press that has been neutered know about (18 U.S. Code 2383?).
William,if the Democrats and the press do not know about 2383,why? If they do know and are doing nothing,that is quite alarming? If they don't know,shouldn't we be letting them know?
David - I've tried sending messages for a year with no response. 2383 is the core law in the Insurrection Act used by Jefferson, Jackson (3 times), Lincoln (4), Grant (6), Hayes (2), Arthur, Cleveland (2), Wilson, Harding, FDR. Eisenshower, Kennedy (3), Johnson (3), Reagan and Bush (2). Congress created the Act in 1807 recognizing that voting, protests and some courts won't stop some parts of government and groups from refusing to obey laws. 2383 has been updated several time since then. Kennedy and Eisenhower used it to enforce SCOTUS 1954 decision Brown v. Board of Education banning segregation and stop forced segregation banning blacks at key universities in the south. 2383 says the crime of insurrection is a coordinated refusal to obey laws - like Trump and Republicans are now doing - a criminal is whoever "assists or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof or gives aid or comfort thereto" - very clear and easy to understand.
Never in my life have I seen it so bad. We have never every had a President this utterly corrupt. I was not worried in 1961. I was not worried in 1968. Now I am worried. The goal is to steal all the money.
I am part of a group of 30 people who meet weekly to write postcards to voters and legislators. In the past eight years, we have written 51,000 postcards... and counting. We average 200-250 a week. I find my strength from them. Most of us are in our 60s-80s, but our youngest member is 18, and our oldest is 95. We are fighting to protect the country -- and the world -- for our grandchildren. (By the way, the woman who is 95 and uses a walker still participates in protests and carries her own signs.)
As a fellow octo I salute you. Last week I went to DC from Charleston to participate in the protest there. Glad I did. We need more protests and more people at them. Beyond protests we need an action plan and we need leadership.
Professor Reich, you would have made a great president. A true patriot who has the knowledge and experience that Trump and men like him will never have!
Dr. Reich has heart and a working conscience, unlike our current POTUS and most of those he has recruited to act as his minions. Here's a suggestion: why don't we start understanding ourselves as the fully human and humane opposition, and put our heroes, like Dr. Reich and other truth tellers at the head of our column.
Agreed, Leigh. I keep reminding myself of the SOLIDARITY movement in Poland. Lech Walesa was a name on everyone’s lips for the magnificent, non-violent way he led Poland to overthrow Communism.
The first democratically elected president of Poland after Communist rule was Viktor Haclev (sp?), a poet.
Who will lead we the people? NOT POLITICIANS. They seem to be driven by expediency. Rather:
Men of character, of substance, visionaries, and yes, men like Dr. Robert Reich. They will emerge out of this struggle. And sooner than later.
Re: do not give in: In all the crap coming down, nothing has made me as mad as the purging of defense Dept. websites, apparently not just Charles C Rogers, Medal of Honor in Vietnam. but other black or female medal honorees. My question is, who did it? Trump or Hegseth or whoever didn't personally input the commands for this dishonorable, shameful act. Replace "medal" with "deimedal?" Show a blank page with DEI? Whose fingers entered those keyboard strokes? Who knows how to "out" the subhuman grunt who did that deed? https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/16/defense-department-black-medal-of-honor-veteran
trump & his minions keep calling it D.E.I. but it’s pure racism & sexism. They must be holding back on calling it what it is, for a few more months, & then it will be out.
If it involves the Constitution they really do not have a leg to stand on, and they know it. and DEI is all about ending sexism , racism religious intolerance and discrimination of all kinds.
DEI is related to unions also, big time. We're going backwards...back to the times when if a woman or a brown or black skinned person applied for work is all that is said is, 'We don't need anyone right now because we just hired someone.'
true. in some places even whites were not acceptable, if they were Irish. In my town long ago, there was a lynching of two men without any trial, because some said they stole horses. They were Irish. when my great grandfather and grandmother arrived from Ireland, they were met with signs "Irish need not apply" when job seeking.
Mmerose - YES - THIS! Plus, they also removed the information about the Navajo Code Talkers. The very people who helped in the war even though we had/have not treated them well. Apparently any image or mention of a person who is not white and male has to be removed. What utter bullsh*t! Their recklessness makes my blood boil as they try to erase history. History that matters.
Mmerose, wouldn't it be great if there were a mole who could publish that information, perhaps they found out accidentally . . . or maybe they were about to be fired, so got a bit of righteous revenge. We need the information! This is just another set of proof that those guys in charge are just a bunch of scared white toddlers and a few other allies who have decided to betray their communities. When white child-men are scared, they can do anything and have proven it over and over throughout history. I keep wondering how we can reverse the idea that those scared white folks have that white is the pinacle of human development, when it is not even close. Whiteness proves it every single day.
They are not “scared toddlers”. Trump is not a “deranged idiot”. They are ruthless predators who know exactly what they’re doing. Their actions are done with intent and purpose- to destroy American government and society, replacing it with a fascist authoritarian regime that holds total domination over the people and the land.
They demonstrate complete disregard for law, the courts, traditional process, protocols and societal norms. The only thing psychopathic bullies respect is force. ICE and other obedient agents are their KGB, Gestapo, their slave catchers. Unless every police force nation-wide turns against them, the only force strong enough to stop them is the United States Armed Forces. They know this to be true. That’s why they fired the generals and loyal staff, replacing them with brown shirts who obey the coup masters. That’s why they seek to compromise and corrupt DOD data systems.
We the People must beseech our military’s leadership, and the millions of working class soldiers, to come to the defense of our nation, our people, our society. To occupy Washington, relieve the president’s regime of command, rehire federal workers and hold new elections. This scenario sounds fantastic, like an overblown Hollywood blockbuster, yet this is the reality in which we live. A world with supervillains bent on global domination. This is not a drill. We’re way past the point of appeasement and compromise. They have declared war on American government and the American people. It’s time for the Department of Defense to defend us.
Yes, Robert, Trump and his associates are savvy predators, and they are in the process of destroying our constitutional form of government. But the military, just like the rest of us have been betrayed by the DOJ, SCOTUS, and the voters who legitimized Trump's dictatorship. If the people rise first, the military might follow.
Agreed, Victor. I doubt the military will initiate intervention, but if millions of people rise up, and a New Democratic leadership appeals publicly to the rank and file soldiers and the chain of command, that might sway the military to act on the behalf of democracy. Defending the nation from enemies both foreign and within.
Yes, indeed! A big virtual hug from Australia, Robert! Even we’re ‘scared’ as the insidious reach of the Trumpian regime touches us all. The latest involves researchers in Australian universities who corroborate with researchers and institutions in the US on many life-changing and innovative projects. They (Australian researchers) have been requested by the US administration to answer questions around DEI and what other countries they conduct research with. What do you call that?? Thanks for instilling such optimism in these - I hate to repeat- uncertain times.
Shelley, that’s nice of you to say. But did you know that Australia is one of America’s closest allies? But even we’re being ‘kicked in the guts’! A truly crazy time we live in. Let’s hope we all make it out of this mess and build something stronger together with like- minded individuals. C’mon America! Time for some action!
Yes I did. And I agree that the Democrats and Republicans have to stand up to Trump and stop this madness! I made a comment here about something that happened here in my home town that just made it all too real. It was a video posted on Instagram of an ICE agent going after an immigrant (illegal or not, I’m not sure), in the neighborhood where he lived, asking him if he had his papers. Not fake news! It was so awful to see I couldn’t watch it anymore, so I didn’t see what happened. I’m not sure if it even showed the whole incident.
That’s just abhorrent Shelley. Looks historically like the purges and annihilation of individuals from autocratic regimes past.
I don’t subscribe to any social media as I refuse to give air to any of the media oligarchs such as Musk or Zuckerberg. However, I now subscribe to Substack and
follow Stuart Rojstacker, amongst others, who described a similar situation in a recent post
Shelley, maybe since it is on video, it would be possible to figure out who the ICE agents are and find ways to hound them for treating people in this country as though they are the enemy, when the real enemies are Musk/Trump and its toddler playground, if there are any enemies at all. OK, Russia isn't exactly a friend despite Musk/Trum's claims that they are.
Addit: Australia has a security pact with the US called ANZUS. Our Pollies here are trying to convince everyone that nothing has changed! You’d have to be blind Freddy to believe that!!
That very idea has been suggested by some of our top security analysts. Fortunately we do have good relations with both Indonesia and Malaysia, but they need to be strengthened. Sadly, however, most of our leading politicians are still focused on our traditional ANZUS treaty, a security pact between Australia, New Zealand and USA.
The belief being: America will always have our back!! Well just look at what’s happening with NATO, etc.
I guess to be fair, the whole world order has turned on a dime and it might take some time for our politicians to remove the blinkers!
Margaret, I hope your institutions will say "the information is classified and we can't share it with people who don't understand the research, and that is you."
Professor Reich: thank you for sharing this plan to resist the fascist regime that's grabbed power in ameriKKKa. i've been in despair for several weeks now -- growing ever deeper -- in the face of these terrible times. for once in my life, i am vaguely happy to live where i am currently stuck overseas, although i continue to miss my beloved NYC home every day.
i certainly am donating to the ACLU and several other organisations that you mentioned. as a science writer/journalist myself, i'm also increasing my donations to several US sources of believable journalism -- propublica and the new republic are at the top of my list -- although i get most of my news of ameriKKKa & its politics from overseas sources these days.
one thing i think a lot of people should do is read books about these terrible times ... octavia butler may be a good place to start ... the parable of the sower and the parable of the talents. she's remarkably prescient (was she a time traveler?) and margaret atwood's handmaid's tale (again, was margaret a time traveler?) ... to help visualize the personal effects and details of what's coming if we do not organize a coherent resistance, and also to motivate us to DO SOMETHING rather than ... i dunno ... sit on our couches watching telly? complain about the price of eggs?
anyway, thank you for the update. i've worried about YOU and heather every day because i'm afraid you will become a target of agent orange and fElon Much (if you aren't already).
I too think this time resembles the world Octavia E. Butler described in “Parable of the Sower” and “Parable of the Talents.” In an interview, Ms. Butler recalled coming up with the concept behind the novels around the time of the LA riots. She was frighteningly prescient, as was Margaret Atwood.
There are also many enlightening non-fiction books. Just a few: “The fight for the soul of the Democratic Party” by John Nichols. “The betrayal of the American dream” by Donald Bartlett. “Declarations of Independence” by Howard Zinn. “White Trash. The 400-year untold history of class in America” by Nancy Isenberg.
thanks for the book suggestions. i am currently reading Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" (halfway through it, and daYAM, it's both depressing and outraging). I'm STILL trying to get an english-language copy of “White Trash. The 400-year untold history of class in America” by Nancy Isenberg after it was suggested to me by someone else here on substack, but this is not easy. you'd think i want a turkish translation of it or something.
Yes, buy hard copy. They have the power to suspend our access to online information at any time, or delete information they deem a threat to them. The only information we can rely upon is hard copy- books, DVD’s. Think Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury.
GrrlScientist, There are many used copies of "White Trash" available right now at ebay.com Many are free shipping also. One copy I noticed was less than five dolllars. I know ebay is a corporation but at least it isn't Amazon.
Question regarding Dem strategy: Given the widespread and growing public opposition to what Trump and Musk are doing, are the Dems engaging in a major voter registration drive...to sign up folks typically not engaged politically - - but now becoming informed and upset? This would seem like a big opportunity.
Dear Mr. Reich, you say "To the extent we are able . . . we can contribute to . . ." and you name worthy organizations, courageous independent news outlets, and legal defense funds of the oppressed. I, for one, cannot contribute any more money to any more organizations. I have chosen the ones that I believe fight this fight with vigor and honesty – you being one of them – and must be content to support all the others with my whole heart and whatever ability I have to express my staunch support for their cause and trenchant opposition to the Trump administration.
It's almost like Trump intends to make us fee numb from his endless barrage of negativity. Then, while we are wallowing in his version social insanity, we'll be more apt to accept the crumbs he leaves for us subsist upon. The general public is an inconvenience to the man who has no soul.
Trump always tests the waters before going on to worse and bigger moves. The latest bombing of the Houthis is testing the loyalty of our armed forces. Expect more, bigger, worse to come.
I strongly agree times three! Joining together at whatever level is available to resist Trumps's fascist attacks is absolutely necessary. I've been reading up on the French Vichy government during WW2- The victorious Nazis were spread too thin so they installed a pseudo government of French administrators in southern France to maintain order and prevent resistance. Democratic Party leaders like Schumer who argue that its better to join with Trump get better treatment remind me of these Vichy leaders ( And at the end of WW2, the French rank and file didn't forgive these traitors).
Aside from this courageous and clear-sighted bishop who lectured Trump face to face, we neither see nor hear any of the religious leaders of this country, where churches play an important role, opposing the actions of a president of great brutality, who doesn't hesitate to sell Bibles—the height of cynicism.
In other times, the Pope was criticized for his silence in the face of Hitler!
Just as we hear nothing from psychiatrists about the mental state of this savage in the White House, who will one day be called The Dark House if that scumbag holds for longer.
Where there is one bishop, there will be more. The present Pope Francis has roundly spoken out about Trump. And a few pastors as well. There is some hope there.
Psychiatrists are speaking out too. See Dr. Richard Razzaque on yt. Phenomenal!
We are all having to find the means to be heard. Not easy. The noise alone drowns out saner voices, but they are there and growing. Just like our own RESISTANCE.
Responsible, loving faith leaders are not nearly exciting enough to be featured on cable or mainstream news! Those sources dearly LOVE the frothing at the mouth, hate filled destructative, "Jesus is too woke," and "God hates______" types. The faithful leaders are very busy doing whatever they can, but they're just not exciting enough to make the news. Far too many local leaders have MAGA folk mixed into their own congregations and their churches are already hanging by such a thread that they can't afford to alienate any members by being too clear about how Jesus would stand against the whole MAGA enterprise. The final nail in the coffin is that, because of the outrageous hatred and lies spread by the frothing at the mouth destructative "christians" that the media loves to feature, most younger folk want nothing to do with church once they leave home. The destructatives are likely going to come close to killing Christianity in America.
On the otherhand, one can seek out churches which DO preach and practice love, justice, mercy, and the actual teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. I attend such a church.
I am aware of several efforts from religious communities…Quakers took trump to court, a letter was sent to trump from 50’ish denominations taking him to task, and Faithful America is one on-line community organizing against Trump and company. They may not be front and center, but there is movement happening.
But perhaps there are pockets of Republican constituencies that are fed up with MAGA, and ready to listen to some voices of reason from their representatives.
Jill, white people are scared and much of it is stoked by the toddler pool of Musk-Trump, the Heritage Foundation, and right-wing media (a cadre of scared white mostly men and women who want a piece of the disgusting action, who pump out and sell fear which a lot of the American people buy regularly as a proof that they are somehow the victims of DEI (they're not) or that they are about to lose the privilege they claim they don't have. In either case, they will pay a lot for someone even more right-wing than the MAGAs, believing that somehow they will be the ones who will get to do harm to the people they are primed to hate, fear, and resent, just like the death camp and concentration camp guards and other staff did, including the Jewish folks used to keep order. Resentment is a huge motivator for a whole lot of people which is why MAGAs employ it so diligently. We the People must figure out how to counter the hatred, fear, anger, and resentment of people who don't realize what is being done to them by those they have been groomed to trust, to believe with no evidence that what they are pushing is real.
Thanks Robert. I look forward to your daily words of wisdom. I'm pretty sure, that you are just as exhausted as most of us, but you manage to voice new opinions of common sense and outrage, for all our benefit. Thanks for digging deep, and leading by example.
Your suggestions of different threatened entities joining forces to fight Trump is exactly what needs to happen. I would add that, non charlatan religious leaders should also be speaking up in a united front, to protest the atrocities of this regime. Bishop Mariann Budde set a good solo example. No matter what religion they practice, they should be preaching loudly that Trump is a false prophet, and anyone worshipping him is committing blasphemy. I'm not a religious person myself, but many MAGA falsely consider themselves to be Christian. I've never read any religious doctrine that would endorse the faux piety behind Republican actions or policies. As for Trump, I doubt there is a commandment that he hasn't personally broken
When I—having whistleblown about corruption in Zimbabwe’s banks— did not allow myself to be intimidated by Mugabe’s ‘secret police’ (who disappeared people), I could do it only because I had unshakeable faith. I believed unequivocally that I was doing the right thing, and that God protects the righteous. And yes, I was protected—no physical harm came to me. But the psychological impact was still profound; I struggled to even speak about it until recent days.
But I had no support network, not one person beside me. So I would say 2 things:
1. If you’re not going to back down, draw people around you. Act as a member of a group, if possible— not because action can’t/ won’t be taken against a group, but because you will always—always!—have one another for support. The bonds that are forged in such a situation are never broken. And if you can’t act as a member of a group, draw your family and close friends near. Make sure they understand why you feel you need to act, and bring them alongside. Standing up to tyranny if your family is against it is an impossible situation to be in, especially if you don’t have faith.
2. If you are a person of faith, build it. For me that was repeating scriptures like, ‘If God is for me, who can be against me?’ Find the ones that speak to you, and repeat them to yourself. They will give you solace through the darkest times.
I wish I could do something more for you.
Ps. Sorry to keep banging-on about what happened Zimbabwe. It’s only to give context to any reader who might be in the position of having to make this choice, and who thinks, ‘What do you know?’ I know what you’re facing, believe me, I know.
Lori, don't apologize! It is important for all of us to know what others did with nasty regimes like the orange man's. Any help you can give to help us get through this is very much appreciated!
Thank you so much Peggy. I've started writing a post to build on my comment. Would you like a heads-up when it's published? (It may be a day or two.)
Absolutely!
I believe I missed whatever
Lori said, but I’ll try to go back and read more when things are not so blurry. I am thankful for people speaking out and for people getting kind support.
I always like to see your ID.
I know it's not easy for you, and that makes it all the more appreciated.
Me too
Not sure if you're 'me too' was for a heads-up from me, Joan. (I struggle to untangle all these threads of conversation!) If it wasn't, my apologies - it's absolutely not my attention to self-promote.
But if it was, here it is: https://loricorbetmann.substack.com/p/when-taking-a-stand-feels-too-risky
Here it is Peggy https://loricorbetmann.substack.com/p/when-taking-a-stand-feels-too-risky
Thank you, Lori! I wrote a comment on your substack. It was an informative and enlightening read. Great advice and recommendations!
Ditto, please!
Please...
Not sure if you're 'please' was for a heads-up from me, ARF. If it was, here it is: https://loricorbetmann.substack.com/p/when-taking-a-stand-feels-too-risky
If it wasn't, my apologies - don't want to be self-promoting on this almost hallowed ground without invitation.
Absolutely!
I apologize for being vague. That wasn't my intent, but I'm not exactly 100% neurotypical, so I do my best.
Thank you!
If you don't mind - I'd like heads up too.
Here it is Ewa. https://loricorbetmann.substack.com/p/when-taking-a-stand-feels-too-risky
RR's first sentence says it all. Their major weapon is fear. You probably sense it everywhere you go. I can.
Some of the fear is ALL TOO REAL...
"Forecast for weaker weather service: Americans will die, businesses will lose billions"
https://thebulletin.org/2025/03/forecast-for-weaker-weather-service-americans-will-die-businesses-will-lose-billions/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Plutonium-contaminated%20wildlife%20corridor%3F%20Colorado%20locals%20say%20no&utm_campaign=20250317%20Monday%20Newsletter
It's NOT about "MAGA", it's about PUTIN patting Trump's little head every time an AMERICAN CITY falls or burns.
Putin wants ONE THING. America bowing to him, begging him to save them. (Where do people thinks Trump gets that stupid "savior" shit from anyway?)
Thousands died because they feared the "deep state" rather than Covid. This is how fear mongering can distract you from the real danger.
Covid hit the Republican Southeast states hard, the old Confederacy, plus Wyoming and Idaho who were unvaccinated. The same states were subjected to a barrage of claims that Covid was created by China to destroy the United States, the vaccine was invented by state authorities who want to control you, or maybe Bill Gates who wants to put a chip in your head, as well as Trump's claims.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0E4W-yH5RHk
Scare someone, and you distract him from the real danger. The real danger we face is the billionaire cartel, not white displacement, not transgender ideology, not even fentanyl. We should also beware of own destructive impulses. Destroying "the deep state" may be fun, but what comes after it?
Can't hurt.
Can most decidedly help, and should not be discounted.
I agree about religion, but differently. I think of it as a wedge that may remind them of a time before hate, when the messages from Jesus about love actually mattered to them. (Specifically, Sermon on the Mont and the like (which may not be included in the Bible for much longer.))
Thank you.
Interesting how our scriptures might be 'edited' by this regime. I imagine the Beatitudes, the Sermon on the Mount, the parables and especially Jesus' scolding of the hypocritical collaborators with Rome, the Pharaisees would get the ax. Oh, and the moneylenders in the Temple bit, too.
Leigh, heck, they already have a "prosperity gospel to let their rich supposedly christian friends think their wealth came from god and made them special and able to do whatever they want with their wealth. After all, those other people are spawns of Satan (or some other such BS). It just proves money or rather love of money is the root of all evil and does corrupt people even people who think it won't. Instead of the word corrupt, they have substituted "holy."
That is Calvin’s doctrine. Pretty old at this point but omnipresent, I think, in America’s continual fawning on the rich.
Susan, I am not sure Calvin would have thought this crop of rich guys was of God. I suspect he would have been condemning them for the way they pretend to be christian while not in any way living Jesus' message. He believed one's wealth, prosperity came from doing good, not from cheating, stealing, undermining, misinforming, etc.
Yep, the prosperity gospel is the child of Calvin for sure.
Calvinism and orthodox Judaism share the same idea of pre destination, the elect. One is born favored by god or not, and they way to tell is by ones wealth. The wealthy are favored by god.
Rockefeller, Carnegie, Mellon, the robber barons were Calvinists.
Today you don't have to be a believer to be a Calvinist. The world has moved on from the secular to the sectarian, because Calvinism has moved beyond the bounds of religion.
Perhaps it started with the Horatio Alger myth, or Manifest Destiny. Most likely with the missionaries of the Great Awakening
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Awakening
YES, ARF!!!
Repeating scriptures was my starting point, because I came from quite a conservative Christian home and at that point, it was all I knew. My perspective now is both narrower- in that for me, the core of Christianity is Christ's message of love for one another - and wider, in that while I no longer identify as 'Christian' given what Christianity has now been perverted to become, that central tenet is the one I live my life by. And while I might no longer identify as 'Christian' per se, I can still speak fluent 'Christian-ese'.
So, no, we don't think differently about it at all, ARF— we are kindred, and I'm happy to have found you.
Thank you, Lori.
This community is very important to me now, and I'm grateful to have found it. (Though as a long-time fan of Dr. Reich, it was bound to happen. I'm just sorry it needed to be found, at a time of such critical need for every resident of Earth.)
foofaraw - How’s your Mom doing and how are you holding up?
Thank you, Anon.
It's not easy, but it wasn't meant to be. (And I doubt I was any easier when she was providing me with a comparable level of care about 65 years ago.) Despite being cared for by hospice, she's actually eating enough to be gaining weight. We'll both be around for a while yet, I'm pretty sure.
I realize there are things I can't learn in any other manner, so I try to pay attention.
We'll make it, because we have no choice. And I will see Orange Haystack in the ground before I leave this world (not in person, but over the internet, like everyone else.)
Lori, you might enjoy reading Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell.mmIt came out in 1948 but I believe is still relevant for those who support the basi tenants taught by Jesus and many others regarding what it means to be a good person,
Thank you for the recommendation Linda, I'll see if I can order it. Is that the Joseph Campbell who developed the concept of the 'Hero's Journey'?
Yes.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Campbell
Lori, you survived, because you were lucky and because "your house stands on rock." A house on sand will crumble.
Thank you, Lori!
I'm very willing to listen to someone who's been there, Lori. Please continue.
Wow. The problem with Zimbabwe is Mugabe lasted forever. Most only last 10 years. Sad that these African leaders can be the most corrupt. Amin, Bokassa, Mugabe. The list goes on.
You are so very strong, Lori! Your words are a rallying call for all of us! The verse I keep repeating to myself is from Amos 5:24 "But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!" When I repeat it, it calms me because I know justice will come for this regime and right will always prevail.
Peggy, My verse is from Micah, "We know what is required of us: to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God." I end every service I preach with it.
That's a beautiful verse, Ruth! It is especially fitting in the time we are in. Doing justice (correctly and not for revenge) is so important! I want to see that orange smear pay the consequences for trying to destroy our country! All of his lapdogs, too! Loving kindness may not be in everyone's DNA code; however, being kind to everyone is important. There are always going to be bad people in this world, but we must never, ever allow them to be in positions that will cause hurt and harm to others! I don't think republicans/magas know how to walk humbly with their god. They scream Armageddon and end times constantly and act like they cannot wait for it to happen! I made the mistake of telling a maga person that the book of Revelations was written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos and was high on Morning Glory. Historians throughout time have argued and discussed this. Whether he was an apostle or just John from the island of Patmos, I believe many evangelical white christians have interpreted his writing incorrectly. Needless to say, that maga thinks I am a heathen!
Agreed, Peggy. (Not on the 'heathen' part, obviously, but on John's writing having been misinterpreted.)
Also, believing that the end times are imminent has been a recurring theme of Christianity almost since the beginning. Paul's letters hint that Christ's followers should expect it in their lifetime. And then there was the Black Death, the Reformation, the Millerite movement etc etc.— they all believed they were living in the end times. Yet here we still are.
I think that's what's majorly concerning about many evangelical MAGA Christians, is that not only do they believe in The Rapture— they're actively trying to bring it about.
Lori, yes, their trying to bring about the end times is rather frightening. They think they will all end up in some kind of paradise while they live in direct opposition to Jesus' teachings. There is a major disconnect with their position. Maybe we should push them a bit that maybe what they are doing will not earn them a place in heaven, trying to deliberately destroy God's world.
I don't know Ruth. I do know that when someone tries to push me towards adopting their perspective, I tend to either dig-in or push back.
In Zim (sorry-again) I learned the power of forgiveness, and the incomparable power of love —especially when we extend it towards those we wholly believe do not deserve it. Then it becomes love, amplified by sacrifice. And without putting ourselves in the firing line, the results can— literally— be miraculous.
They drank the KoolAid.
Absolutely agree, Lori! My God did not want his people to live constantly expecting their time on earth to end. I believe He wanted us to use the time we have on earth to live in His way and to follow His teachings. I do try every day to live a good life. I have to ask forgiveness many times for my foul mouth, but I do try to live by the Golden Rule. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I feel bad for those that are so consumed with wanting The Rapture to happen they aren't living their lives! As I have explained to God, I am not ready to go yet. There are still an awful lot of things I want to do!
If you were to change their minds their world would collapse; they would rather die.
Yes, Peggy, love it!!!
In my early twenties, I reached a point where I wasn't interested in the 'hereafter' stuff. I figured I wouldn't know if the hereafter stuff was true 'til I was dead, and that seemed like such a waste of life.
Meanwhile, none of the stuff I was being taught by my church about the here-and-now held water— again and again God's promises seemed to fall flat. So either God was lying (impossible!) or we'd got something wrong somewhere. I wanted to know what. I wanted God to teach me about the here-and-now!And then God showed up, and taught me. ❤️
Whenever you meet one ask questions. If you have read the Bible you know that their position is untenable from their own perspective.
Peggy, you are right about the book of Revelation. It is like a drug dream and was definitely never meant to be the roadmap to the end of the world. People loved it, so it got included in the "New Testament" but the men meeting to decide knew it was not really a legitimate work beyond being a fantasy, but they approved it anyway. It is kind of like the way the book of "Esther," most likely historical fiction, was sealed into the Hebrew Scriptures in 90 C.E. (AD). People loved it and with Purim being such a treasured feast day, the book couldn't be dropped. Your MAGA friend did not like being shown up as ignorant of the facts, but you, alas, can't be responsible for people's desperate need/desire to be right. Wouldn't it be great if the person went off to do some research and was willing to openly talk with you about it?
Gosh, Ruth! That would not only be a surprise but it would be a shock! I love to read the history of the Bible. It is very interesting. My sister is always the first one to speak up and say "The Bible was written and interpreted by men! Naturally, they put their own spin on it!" As a young girl, I belonged to G.A.'s (girls auxillary) at my church. One requirement was to memorize Bible scripture. To this day, I can still recite 1 Corinthians, Chapter 13 which is one of my favorites!
Peggy, I, too, like I Corinthians 13. Unfortunately, Paul did go off the deep end when it came to women. I am thinking women may have scared him as we do so many men, so they just must pass laws to keep us under control, then pump out all kinds of disinformation to tell women how we should be married to our house as much as to our hubby and that anything that went wrong related to our children was our fault, OK, so was nearly everything else that went wrong so we could be burned as witches, beaten, raped, etc., etc. The message is powerful and has ensnared billions of women over the millennia. It is that kind of male rule that has put so much of our planet at risk and so many of our lives, and continues its relentless march right now as DEI and other programs that have helped women to rise are being scorned and eliminated. Yep, scared white men here but scared men of all colors around the world!
The "revelations" of "John" are nothing more than sour grapes. The book was added to the Gospels to scare people into obedience.
What did John have sour grapes about? Because he was exiled to that island?
Peggy, thank you so much! Also, it seems that if a number of people have changed, by their behaviors or their words, or even by changing biblical text without divine permission, or if they have changed what they claim being a Christian is, and I have not changed from shat I was taught, know. and feel, then I still am Christian. Only they have changed, except for the name they still claim. Their changed definition does not change who I am, and I do not need to change to fit their strange claims.
The quotation coming to me is, “Render unto God what is God‘s. Render into Caesar, what is Caesar's.” Maybe I reversed the order, but it seems important to remember.
Amen! Thank you, Peggy.
Thank you Peggy, and for sharing such a calming and encouraging verse. I'm going to note it down and pin it to my laptop.
Lori, i am so moved by your posts, especially learning more of your story. I can see that all hardship and suffering you endured has prepared you for a new mission: to be a mentor to anyone on this planet willing to step forward against evil and tyranny.
I for one am grateful and encouraged.
I'm deeply moved by this Joan, thank you.
Thank you for sharing your experience, and for your wise advice. You were able to keep your faith, because you knew that your cause was just. That gave you a strength your enemies lacked. You are a hero, and I hope that you will write a book about your experience.
Thank you for your very kind words Victor, but I am no more a hero than any of you who are stepping up in your own way, to find a way forward. I salute each and every one of you, and will do everything I can to support you.
thank you for your words of strength. so so much.
You're welcome sumac01.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Lori, thank you for your advice. I am so thankful you were protected! You definitely are needed and appreciated!
You’re welcome, and thank you.
The US is not Zimbabwe. That's reason for hope. And action. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zimbabwe
"In a surprising moment of candour at the ZANU–PF congress in December 2014, President Robert Mugabe accidentally let slip that the opposition had in fact won the contentious 2008 polls by an astounding 73%.[97] After winning the election, the Mugabe ZANU–PF government re-instituted one party rule,[95] doubled the civil service and, according to The Economist, embarked on "misrule and dazzling corruption".[94] A 2017 study conducted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) concluded that due to the deterioration of government and the economy "the government encourages corruption to make up for its inability to fund its own institutions" with widespread and informal police roadblocks to issue fines to travellers being one manifestation of this.[98]"
In the context of my comment above, I don't quite understand your point Steve. (Or your quote, in light of the January 6th insurrection.)
I wanted to give people more information on what was going on in Zimbabwe and so I zeroed in on what I thought might be the period you were talking about.
Also, there are enormous differences in the conditions of Zimbabwe in the 2000s and the US of today. But yes, our challenges in the US going forward are immense.
This is not meant to detract from your excellent remarks.
Thanks Steve, I get you now.
Indeed, there are enormous differences, but I am nonetheless concerned by the reach and resources of Trump and his regime, and the potential global impact, which could never have been said of Mugabe. That and the similar motives (in Mugabe's latter days) of personal power, money and control, no matter the cost to the country's people, economy or stability.
Octogenarians Unite! You have the experience that few other groups can call on. Your family endured the horrors of WWII. You saw students gunned down for protesting. You saw or perhaps were beaten bloody for peacefully protesting apartheid in South Africa and here in the American South. You and your friends were sent to Vietnam to fight an unjust war. You lost friends and brothers in that war. You saw a President declare he was not a criminal because if a President does it, it is not illegal. Then you saw him resign in order to avoid impeachment and conviction. Against all odds, you are still here. So rise up, gather your friends, use your influence, stop the insanity now accelerating in Washington DC. Rich S, Octogenarian, Contrarian and tired of the spineless "representatives"
Fear has been caused by the failure of Democrats to enforce the law and stop the illegal insurrection by Trump and Republicans that was revealed on Jan 6 and has continued after Trump became president. The insurrection is destroying democracy, the rule of law, and Constitution rights. Saving democracy as a government of the people, by the people, and for the people requires more than voting or protesting. "We the people" must tell politicians what they need to do with specific actions including new laws. Rich people do it - and now "we the people" need to do it.
The first step for “we the people” to effectively fight is recognizing there is a legal solution to stop the illegal insurrection. The ongoing insurrection violates federal law (18 U.S. Code § 2383) which states a felony crime is committed by “whoever assists or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof or gives aid or comfort thereto shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States”.
The second step for “we the people” to effectively fight is demanding Democrats in government implement the legal solution.
The solution can begin to be quickly implemented by Democrats enacting and enforcing a new state law modeled after the federal law (18 U.S. Code § 2383) in 7 states where Democrats control the state government. California could be the first state to enact and enforce the law within 90 days which would remove the 9 Republican representatives from California in the Congressional House. The House would then have a Democratic majority of 224 to 209 with Jefferies as Speaker of the House to control the budget and make sure Ukraine and Medicaid are fully funded and there will be no tax cuts for the rich. Maryland, New Jersey and Colorado could follow to collectively remove another 8 Republican representatives in the House and then also remove 4 conservative justices from the Supreme Court changing the Court to 3 liberals and 2 conservatives to block any more conservative Court actions favorable to Trump, Republicans, and oligarchs.
The Constitution in Article I, Section 6, Clause 1 allows members of Congress to be arrested, indicted, and convicted for the felony crime of insurrection that violates state law enforced with imprisonment up to ten years with mandatory permanent removal and prevention from holding office.
The Constitution does not establish judicial immunity for any judge including federal judges or Supreme Court Justices. Therefore, Supreme Court Justices can be arrested, indicted, and convicted for the felony crime of insurrection and enforced with imprisonment up to ten years and mandatory permanent removal and prevention from holding office.
It appears that Democrats in Congress had neither the will nor the fortitude to put an end to the insurrection and the re-emergence of trump when they had a chance - no thanks to the traitors on the supreme court and collaborators like Aileen Cannon.
That Dems could be successful now, with both hands tied behind their back, is a stretch given this regime seems averse to the rule of law. However, I like your proposal, I hope you have the ear of influential Dems willing to take some meaningful counter action that draws attention to the subversive acts undertaken by these traitors . What's there to lose at this point (heavy sigh).
Judith - Democratic governors, attorney generals and legislatures controlled by Democrats in blue states seem to be much better fighters and enforcers of the law than compromised and weak Democrats in the federal government
William,great post. Can you get the message across to the pols in the 7 states to consider this possibility. If this is as easy as you imply,why isn't something being done?Do they know about (18 U.S. Code 2383).Does the press that has been neutered know about (18 U.S. Code 2383?).
David - Can’t get to the pols or the press but apparently they don’t know about 2383 which is incredible 🤪
William,if the Democrats and the press do not know about 2383,why? If they do know and are doing nothing,that is quite alarming? If they don't know,shouldn't we be letting them know?
David - I've tried sending messages for a year with no response. 2383 is the core law in the Insurrection Act used by Jefferson, Jackson (3 times), Lincoln (4), Grant (6), Hayes (2), Arthur, Cleveland (2), Wilson, Harding, FDR. Eisenshower, Kennedy (3), Johnson (3), Reagan and Bush (2). Congress created the Act in 1807 recognizing that voting, protests and some courts won't stop some parts of government and groups from refusing to obey laws. 2383 has been updated several time since then. Kennedy and Eisenhower used it to enforce SCOTUS 1954 decision Brown v. Board of Education banning segregation and stop forced segregation banning blacks at key universities in the south. 2383 says the crime of insurrection is a coordinated refusal to obey laws - like Trump and Republicans are now doing - a criminal is whoever "assists or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof or gives aid or comfort thereto" - very clear and easy to understand.
I am with you all the way, Rich! Inspiring!
Never in my life have I seen it so bad. We have never every had a President this utterly corrupt. I was not worried in 1961. I was not worried in 1968. Now I am worried. The goal is to steal all the money.
I am part of a group of 30 people who meet weekly to write postcards to voters and legislators. In the past eight years, we have written 51,000 postcards... and counting. We average 200-250 a week. I find my strength from them. Most of us are in our 60s-80s, but our youngest member is 18, and our oldest is 95. We are fighting to protect the country -- and the world -- for our grandchildren. (By the way, the woman who is 95 and uses a walker still participates in protests and carries her own signs.)
As a fellow octo I salute you. Last week I went to DC from Charleston to participate in the protest there. Glad I did. We need more protests and more people at them. Beyond protests we need an action plan and we need leadership.
C’mon people, now let’s get together…!
The United States is in a movie: "Straw Dogs" 2011.
The characters were sketchy and feckless... a bit like Americans seem right now.
America is Amy George.
Venner is Trump. Scutt is Elon Musk. And this is a rape.
Will Democrats be Dustin Hoffman and finally fight back against the monsters?
Professor Reich, you would have made a great president. A true patriot who has the knowledge and experience that Trump and men like him will never have!
Thank you, Dr. Reich for your plan of action. This gives each uncompromised citizen a list of good things to do every day.
Dr. Reich has heart and a working conscience, unlike our current POTUS and most of those he has recruited to act as his minions. Here's a suggestion: why don't we start understanding ourselves as the fully human and humane opposition, and put our heroes, like Dr. Reich and other truth tellers at the head of our column.
Agreed, Leigh. I keep reminding myself of the SOLIDARITY movement in Poland. Lech Walesa was a name on everyone’s lips for the magnificent, non-violent way he led Poland to overthrow Communism.
The first democratically elected president of Poland after Communist rule was Viktor Haclev (sp?), a poet.
Who will lead we the people? NOT POLITICIANS. They seem to be driven by expediency. Rather:
Men of character, of substance, visionaries, and yes, men like Dr. Robert Reich. They will emerge out of this struggle. And sooner than later.
Amen!
Yes, but would the economic pain matter to Republicans if there are no fair elections anymore?
Hear! Hear!
AOC for New York Senator in 2028! Time to say good-bye to Schumer.
YES!
Yes, I heard tRUMP praise Chuck Schumer, and that says it all.
I agree!
Re: do not give in: In all the crap coming down, nothing has made me as mad as the purging of defense Dept. websites, apparently not just Charles C Rogers, Medal of Honor in Vietnam. but other black or female medal honorees. My question is, who did it? Trump or Hegseth or whoever didn't personally input the commands for this dishonorable, shameful act. Replace "medal" with "deimedal?" Show a blank page with DEI? Whose fingers entered those keyboard strokes? Who knows how to "out" the subhuman grunt who did that deed? https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/16/defense-department-black-medal-of-honor-veteran
trump & his minions keep calling it D.E.I. but it’s pure racism & sexism. They must be holding back on calling it what it is, for a few more months, & then it will be out.
If it involves the Constitution they really do not have a leg to stand on, and they know it. and DEI is all about ending sexism , racism religious intolerance and discrimination of all kinds.
DEI is related to unions also, big time. We're going backwards...back to the times when if a woman or a brown or black skinned person applied for work is all that is said is, 'We don't need anyone right now because we just hired someone.'
true. in some places even whites were not acceptable, if they were Irish. In my town long ago, there was a lynching of two men without any trial, because some said they stole horses. They were Irish. when my great grandfather and grandmother arrived from Ireland, they were met with signs "Irish need not apply" when job seeking.
Fox News equated it with Affirmative Action, and defined it as an attack on (white) male merit to the benefit of the "woke." Sissies got scared.
Mmerose - YES - THIS! Plus, they also removed the information about the Navajo Code Talkers. The very people who helped in the war even though we had/have not treated them well. Apparently any image or mention of a person who is not white and male has to be removed. What utter bullsh*t! Their recklessness makes my blood boil as they try to erase history. History that matters.
Mmerose, wouldn't it be great if there were a mole who could publish that information, perhaps they found out accidentally . . . or maybe they were about to be fired, so got a bit of righteous revenge. We need the information! This is just another set of proof that those guys in charge are just a bunch of scared white toddlers and a few other allies who have decided to betray their communities. When white child-men are scared, they can do anything and have proven it over and over throughout history. I keep wondering how we can reverse the idea that those scared white folks have that white is the pinacle of human development, when it is not even close. Whiteness proves it every single day.
They are not “scared toddlers”. Trump is not a “deranged idiot”. They are ruthless predators who know exactly what they’re doing. Their actions are done with intent and purpose- to destroy American government and society, replacing it with a fascist authoritarian regime that holds total domination over the people and the land.
They demonstrate complete disregard for law, the courts, traditional process, protocols and societal norms. The only thing psychopathic bullies respect is force. ICE and other obedient agents are their KGB, Gestapo, their slave catchers. Unless every police force nation-wide turns against them, the only force strong enough to stop them is the United States Armed Forces. They know this to be true. That’s why they fired the generals and loyal staff, replacing them with brown shirts who obey the coup masters. That’s why they seek to compromise and corrupt DOD data systems.
We the People must beseech our military’s leadership, and the millions of working class soldiers, to come to the defense of our nation, our people, our society. To occupy Washington, relieve the president’s regime of command, rehire federal workers and hold new elections. This scenario sounds fantastic, like an overblown Hollywood blockbuster, yet this is the reality in which we live. A world with supervillains bent on global domination. This is not a drill. We’re way past the point of appeasement and compromise. They have declared war on American government and the American people. It’s time for the Department of Defense to defend us.
Yes, Robert, Trump and his associates are savvy predators, and they are in the process of destroying our constitutional form of government. But the military, just like the rest of us have been betrayed by the DOJ, SCOTUS, and the voters who legitimized Trump's dictatorship. If the people rise first, the military might follow.
Agreed, Victor. I doubt the military will initiate intervention, but if millions of people rise up, and a New Democratic leadership appeals publicly to the rank and file soldiers and the chain of command, that might sway the military to act on the behalf of democracy. Defending the nation from enemies both foreign and within.
Thank you Robert. Big hugs from friends overseas.
Yes, indeed! A big virtual hug from Australia, Robert! Even we’re ‘scared’ as the insidious reach of the Trumpian regime touches us all. The latest involves researchers in Australian universities who corroborate with researchers and institutions in the US on many life-changing and innovative projects. They (Australian researchers) have been requested by the US administration to answer questions around DEI and what other countries they conduct research with. What do you call that?? Thanks for instilling such optimism in these - I hate to repeat- uncertain times.
Thanks for being on our side!
Shelley, that’s nice of you to say. But did you know that Australia is one of America’s closest allies? But even we’re being ‘kicked in the guts’! A truly crazy time we live in. Let’s hope we all make it out of this mess and build something stronger together with like- minded individuals. C’mon America! Time for some action!
Yes I did. And I agree that the Democrats and Republicans have to stand up to Trump and stop this madness! I made a comment here about something that happened here in my home town that just made it all too real. It was a video posted on Instagram of an ICE agent going after an immigrant (illegal or not, I’m not sure), in the neighborhood where he lived, asking him if he had his papers. Not fake news! It was so awful to see I couldn’t watch it anymore, so I didn’t see what happened. I’m not sure if it even showed the whole incident.
That’s just abhorrent Shelley. Looks historically like the purges and annihilation of individuals from autocratic regimes past.
I don’t subscribe to any social media as I refuse to give air to any of the media oligarchs such as Musk or Zuckerberg. However, I now subscribe to Substack and
follow Stuart Rojstacker, amongst others, who described a similar situation in a recent post
https://substack.com/@stuarth2o/note/c-101038242?r=5cvf8t&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action
Check it out!
Shelley, maybe since it is on video, it would be possible to figure out who the ICE agents are and find ways to hound them for treating people in this country as though they are the enemy, when the real enemies are Musk/Trump and its toddler playground, if there are any enemies at all. OK, Russia isn't exactly a friend despite Musk/Trum's claims that they are.
Addit: Australia has a security pact with the US called ANZUS. Our Pollies here are trying to convince everyone that nothing has changed! You’d have to be blind Freddy to believe that!!
that's a big part of the problem-most pols think we are blind
If Australians are concerned about China they might strengthen ties with Indonesia and Malaysia. The USA is completely unreliable.
That very idea has been suggested by some of our top security analysts. Fortunately we do have good relations with both Indonesia and Malaysia, but they need to be strengthened. Sadly, however, most of our leading politicians are still focused on our traditional ANZUS treaty, a security pact between Australia, New Zealand and USA.
The belief being: America will always have our back!! Well just look at what’s happening with NATO, etc.
I guess to be fair, the whole world order has turned on a dime and it might take some time for our politicians to remove the blinkers!
I call it stupid,self-defeating,and treasonous
It’s a classic case of foreign interference!
Does that sound familiar?
too familiar
Margaret, I hope your institutions will say "the information is classified and we can't share it with people who don't understand the research, and that is you."
We NEED friends from overseas!
Professor Reich: thank you for sharing this plan to resist the fascist regime that's grabbed power in ameriKKKa. i've been in despair for several weeks now -- growing ever deeper -- in the face of these terrible times. for once in my life, i am vaguely happy to live where i am currently stuck overseas, although i continue to miss my beloved NYC home every day.
i certainly am donating to the ACLU and several other organisations that you mentioned. as a science writer/journalist myself, i'm also increasing my donations to several US sources of believable journalism -- propublica and the new republic are at the top of my list -- although i get most of my news of ameriKKKa & its politics from overseas sources these days.
one thing i think a lot of people should do is read books about these terrible times ... octavia butler may be a good place to start ... the parable of the sower and the parable of the talents. she's remarkably prescient (was she a time traveler?) and margaret atwood's handmaid's tale (again, was margaret a time traveler?) ... to help visualize the personal effects and details of what's coming if we do not organize a coherent resistance, and also to motivate us to DO SOMETHING rather than ... i dunno ... sit on our couches watching telly? complain about the price of eggs?
anyway, thank you for the update. i've worried about YOU and heather every day because i'm afraid you will become a target of agent orange and fElon Much (if you aren't already).
I too think this time resembles the world Octavia E. Butler described in “Parable of the Sower” and “Parable of the Talents.” In an interview, Ms. Butler recalled coming up with the concept behind the novels around the time of the LA riots. She was frighteningly prescient, as was Margaret Atwood.
There are also many enlightening non-fiction books. Just a few: “The fight for the soul of the Democratic Party” by John Nichols. “The betrayal of the American dream” by Donald Bartlett. “Declarations of Independence” by Howard Zinn. “White Trash. The 400-year untold history of class in America” by Nancy Isenberg.
thanks for the book suggestions. i am currently reading Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" (halfway through it, and daYAM, it's both depressing and outraging). I'm STILL trying to get an english-language copy of “White Trash. The 400-year untold history of class in America” by Nancy Isenberg after it was suggested to me by someone else here on substack, but this is not easy. you'd think i want a turkish translation of it or something.
Buy hardcopy if you can. It can't be deleted remotely or traced as easily.
Yes, buy hard copy. They have the power to suspend our access to online information at any time, or delete information they deem a threat to them. The only information we can rely upon is hard copy- books, DVD’s. Think Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury.
GrrlScientist, There are many used copies of "White Trash" available right now at ebay.com Many are free shipping also. One copy I noticed was less than five dolllars. I know ebay is a corporation but at least it isn't Amazon.
You can get used copies from BetterWorldBooks and ThriftBooks. Great sources for out of print.
Thank you for the references.
i discovered that i have a long unused account at betterworldbooks, so i reset my password and now i'm good to go.
If Prof Reich and Heather do become targets, we'll
be side-by-side with them....IN THE STREETS.
gawd, i certainly hope so.
Question regarding Dem strategy: Given the widespread and growing public opposition to what Trump and Musk are doing, are the Dems engaging in a major voter registration drive...to sign up folks typically not engaged politically - - but now becoming informed and upset? This would seem like a big opportunity.
THE PEOPLE are doing this in Florida prior to the special elections coming up
Dear Mr. Reich, you say "To the extent we are able . . . we can contribute to . . ." and you name worthy organizations, courageous independent news outlets, and legal defense funds of the oppressed. I, for one, cannot contribute any more money to any more organizations. I have chosen the ones that I believe fight this fight with vigor and honesty – you being one of them – and must be content to support all the others with my whole heart and whatever ability I have to express my staunch support for their cause and trenchant opposition to the Trump administration.
Doing the right thing and getting out of our safe zone is very liberating. Don’t obey in advance.
It's almost like Trump intends to make us fee numb from his endless barrage of negativity. Then, while we are wallowing in his version social insanity, we'll be more apt to accept the crumbs he leaves for us subsist upon. The general public is an inconvenience to the man who has no soul.
Get Smart was a good series, but we need Agent..(what was her name?) more than Maxwell now.
Seldom--(99) would forgive you.
Yes, Bob, tyranny is only possible when people submit to it.
In the Netherlands there was a brave professor in Leiden who spoke out against the German occupation. He still has the reputation of being a hero.
Two years later, there was a big strike against the Jew hunt in Amsterdam. Fifty thousand arrested Jews never returned.
Is is so serious? I think it is.
What about the bombing of the Huti's, and the threats against Iran? Can the president start wars on his own?
Trump always tests the waters before going on to worse and bigger moves. The latest bombing of the Houthis is testing the loyalty of our armed forces. Expect more, bigger, worse to come.
Yes, afraid so. Bombing Iran?
If the Pentagon does what the president directs, yes, the president effectively is waging war.
And enabling a Seditionist
That still is a formal command chain; worse would be a free Hegseth...
I strongly agree times three! Joining together at whatever level is available to resist Trumps's fascist attacks is absolutely necessary. I've been reading up on the French Vichy government during WW2- The victorious Nazis were spread too thin so they installed a pseudo government of French administrators in southern France to maintain order and prevent resistance. Democratic Party leaders like Schumer who argue that its better to join with Trump get better treatment remind me of these Vichy leaders ( And at the end of WW2, the French rank and file didn't forgive these traitors).
Aside from this courageous and clear-sighted bishop who lectured Trump face to face, we neither see nor hear any of the religious leaders of this country, where churches play an important role, opposing the actions of a president of great brutality, who doesn't hesitate to sell Bibles—the height of cynicism.
In other times, the Pope was criticized for his silence in the face of Hitler!
Just as we hear nothing from psychiatrists about the mental state of this savage in the White House, who will one day be called The Dark House if that scumbag holds for longer.
Where there is one bishop, there will be more. The present Pope Francis has roundly spoken out about Trump. And a few pastors as well. There is some hope there.
Psychiatrists are speaking out too. See Dr. Richard Razzaque on yt. Phenomenal!
We are all having to find the means to be heard. Not easy. The noise alone drowns out saner voices, but they are there and growing. Just like our own RESISTANCE.
My apologies to the good doctor. His correct name is Russell Razzaque, MD. His YouTube videos are really informative, the best of any i’ve seen.
Responsible, loving faith leaders are not nearly exciting enough to be featured on cable or mainstream news! Those sources dearly LOVE the frothing at the mouth, hate filled destructative, "Jesus is too woke," and "God hates______" types. The faithful leaders are very busy doing whatever they can, but they're just not exciting enough to make the news. Far too many local leaders have MAGA folk mixed into their own congregations and their churches are already hanging by such a thread that they can't afford to alienate any members by being too clear about how Jesus would stand against the whole MAGA enterprise. The final nail in the coffin is that, because of the outrageous hatred and lies spread by the frothing at the mouth destructative "christians" that the media loves to feature, most younger folk want nothing to do with church once they leave home. The destructatives are likely going to come close to killing Christianity in America.
On the otherhand, one can seek out churches which DO preach and practice love, justice, mercy, and the actual teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. I attend such a church.
There are many of us. We just don't make the endless "breaking news" cycle (unless we question Trump?)
I am aware of several efforts from religious communities…Quakers took trump to court, a letter was sent to trump from 50’ish denominations taking him to task, and Faithful America is one on-line community organizing against Trump and company. They may not be front and center, but there is movement happening.
And don't forget "fear of being primaried."
But perhaps there are pockets of Republican constituencies that are fed up with MAGA, and ready to listen to some voices of reason from their representatives.
Jill, white people are scared and much of it is stoked by the toddler pool of Musk-Trump, the Heritage Foundation, and right-wing media (a cadre of scared white mostly men and women who want a piece of the disgusting action, who pump out and sell fear which a lot of the American people buy regularly as a proof that they are somehow the victims of DEI (they're not) or that they are about to lose the privilege they claim they don't have. In either case, they will pay a lot for someone even more right-wing than the MAGAs, believing that somehow they will be the ones who will get to do harm to the people they are primed to hate, fear, and resent, just like the death camp and concentration camp guards and other staff did, including the Jewish folks used to keep order. Resentment is a huge motivator for a whole lot of people which is why MAGAs employ it so diligently. We the People must figure out how to counter the hatred, fear, anger, and resentment of people who don't realize what is being done to them by those they have been groomed to trust, to believe with no evidence that what they are pushing is real.
A hopeless task as long as they remain hooked on Fox News and right wing conspiracy narratives.
Thanks Robert. I look forward to your daily words of wisdom. I'm pretty sure, that you are just as exhausted as most of us, but you manage to voice new opinions of common sense and outrage, for all our benefit. Thanks for digging deep, and leading by example.
Your suggestions of different threatened entities joining forces to fight Trump is exactly what needs to happen. I would add that, non charlatan religious leaders should also be speaking up in a united front, to protest the atrocities of this regime. Bishop Mariann Budde set a good solo example. No matter what religion they practice, they should be preaching loudly that Trump is a false prophet, and anyone worshipping him is committing blasphemy. I'm not a religious person myself, but many MAGA falsely consider themselves to be Christian. I've never read any religious doctrine that would endorse the faux piety behind Republican actions or policies. As for Trump, I doubt there is a commandment that he hasn't personally broken