6 Comments
Nov 2·edited Nov 3

Great article! It is amazing that the words of the great Frederick Douglass continue to guide us today. As an example of "low information," many people do not know the basic truth that the Republicans and Democrats of Douglass' era are reversed in their focus today. I tell people "Follow the KKK and other racists." Before the Voting Rights Act 1965 and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the KKK and people like Strom Thurman felt at home in the Democratic Party. Afterwards, they moved to the Republican Party where they feel at home today. Black people who had been loyal to the Party of Lincoln began to move their loyalty to the Democrats after those major pieces of legislation.

Expand full comment

Thank you for the article. In answer to your question. I share this, "If I hear you correctly, that you are choosing to sit this election out because neither candidate completely supports your values, then you must be okay with the US moving from a democracy to an authoritarian rule that may very well limit your ability to ever express your voice again? Are you okay with this?" Then I see where the conversation goes, remaining curious of how they came to their decision.

Expand full comment

Appreciate your posting Mr. Douglass’ much needed quote for now, as well as linking to Dr. Kruse’s historical perspective.

Expand full comment

Another thorough amplification of a century old problem. When I heard an African American, or other persons of color declare that they will not vote because candidates, I am mouth agape baffled. We have a choice between a candidate, human and flawed, that will move the country forward, and a candidate, flawed to the bone, who will take the nation backward, “make America great again” is cliche without a time-space identity.

When I witness Black men, who are business owners, professionals, appearing to possess a modicum of intelligence, say they are vote for Trump because things were better under him, and he’s better for the country, I blink, rub my head, and wonder what they could possibly be talking about. Through What prism do they process the data, the hateful actions and statements? Obviously the subjective prism.

Expand full comment

Thank you for this! The choice is crystal clear, as you point out: “The nation stands at the precipice of deciding between an autocratic, white Christian nationalist government for the few or a participatory, multiracial democracy for the many.” I cannot fathom how any follower of Jesus can be undecided, let alone support Trump yet again!

Expand full comment

Yesterday I just basically begged them to vote for Kamala. And tried to understand and empathize with their pain.

Expand full comment