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Robert Lastick's avatar

We are in the midst of an autocratic takeover of our country. We need a lot less talk about what Trump has done and a lot more talk about what we can do to stop him. It has also become obvious that many large prestigious law firms have sold American democracy down the road and others (who I have yet to hear about) who have stood tall for democracy. I for one, have stopped doing business with companies partial to Fascism, not just legal firms, but all companies sweet on autocratic Fascism.

If you want to talk about something, tell me of your plan to stop the Fascists. I am all ears.

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Barbara  Nilsen's avatar

The times call for courage. Everyone has responsibility in a democracy. If your conscience says take an action to protect democracy--no matter how big or small-- but you are afraid, you tell yourself you don't have time, you tell yourself you can't make a difference..... that's exactly when you need to act. Here are some ideas: find a community of support; when you see folks taking risks, show them you have their backs; vote; call DC (5calls.org); write letters to your local paper; contact your alma mater; engage in conversations with your faith leaders and your faith community; spend ethically; make wise donations to non-profits; join activist groups or give them financial support; take part in protests; think state and local as well as national; stay informed; jump into uncomfortable conversations with colleagues, friends and family.......There is a huge community of folks who are working hard to save our democracy. Remember that each and every action adds to the collective efforts of everyone taking a stand. No one needs to do it all, but we all need to do something. Don't worry about the outcome, just do the best you can--no excuses--in these very difficult times.

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Marliss Desens's avatar

Thank you for a stellar discussion. Any business, law firm, university, etc. thinking of capitulating to Trump would do well to listen to this discussion and see how he is knocking the pins down one by one. The lesson here is to unite. There is another old fable about people trying to break a bundle of sticks. Then a disruptor comes along and unties the bundle and breaks the sticks one by one. That is what Trump and his group--never forget that he has empowered a dangerous group of people-=are doing. We cannot allow more untying of bundles.

One immediate action: donate or work if you can, to elect Susan Crawford to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. It is not just women's rights and voting rights in Wisconsin are on the line. Elon Musk, who is dumping money into the race, has financial issues that will come before that court. Also, the Wisconsin Supreme Court will have a role in election cases, both statewide and nationally.

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Dr Marc B Cooper's avatar

His action in the private sector are no suprise. Of course he'd incapacitate his opposition. But there is no counter being presented to his action. Whatever kind of leadership is required to go "toe-to-toe is no where to be found.

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Pat Jones Garcia's avatar

Good discussion and differing thoughts in the mix of speakers. I wondered early on why a group of senators and representatives did not get together and confront Trump about his actions that either the Congress should be doing or bringing about discussions or more on the unlawful deeds of Trump. Now it's private businesses and universities caving in. Why? Is everyone that afraid of Trump to say "No" to wrongdoings?

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