#steady #courage
For decades, Republicans have been able to have it all ways. Promise a radical reactionary rethink of American democracy to its rabid base, and hide behind a court that protected them from what would be a very unpopular set of policies with the general public. Well no longer.
Do we really want to outlaw abortion? We may soon know. Do we really believe we can attack gay rights and other rights at unprecedented levels? We may soon know. Do we really believe that our corporations should have unfettered power and workers have relatively none? Here again, the movement is already afoot.
The farce is shattered, the fig leaf has disappeared, the obfuscations have been replaced by clarity. And what is in its place is a very unpopular President stoking the flames of a massive backlash.
I do not say this to be Pollyannish. The president and his supporters have a lot of power, and tens of millions of fervent members in their base. But we have seen a growing realization from not only moderates but conservatives who still care about the constitution and recognize how perilous is the threat of the modern GOP. Look at Michael Bloomberg pledging tens of millions of dollars to elect Democrats. Look at opinion writers who have preached for the GOP in the past say now is a time to elect Democrats. Look at men and women of power and fame who are arguing that this cannot stand.
I know there is a feeling among many progressives that they have lost, that the future is a foregone conclusion. They see the forces arrayed against them on the battlefield of justice and feel the doom of certain and impending defeat. But turn to your left and right and see the long lines of fellow citizens. Look behind you and see the formidable artillery of wealth and power that is on YOUR side. Take a deep breath and feel the cool air of hope and justice in your lungs, and then march forward.
#steady #courage
-Dan Rather
