In my 1950s geography class, world maps of continents and countries were distinguished from each other by the natural resources and goods for which they were known. No mention was made of the people, culture, or governments that built those countries. I understood that those resources and goods were obtained by trade or conquest and either was fair game. My childhood understanding has changed.
In my lifetime, the United States has been a player or instigator in wars throughout the world. Now this president has provoked yet another war, tanking his promise to keep us out of war. Under the guise of stopping suspected drug trafficking from Venezuela, he has bombed people in small boats, bombed the country, kidnapped its president and his wife, and blown up international law.
Soon, the United States will note our 250th year. In that quick blink, in the name of “national security” but covertly for what natural resource we covet, we have moved from fledgling country to United States empire.
Now or never — own our courage to save our country together. Use your voice and our collective power, contact senators and representatives to thank them or push them, protest in the streets, protect our targeted neighbors and veterans. Support politicians and organizations who will fight with us to create a better country for all of us: descendants of immigrants, immigrants, indigenous, descendants of those who were forced here, and for the rich who must pay their moral fair share. It’s past go-time. Contact: Indivisible.org, 5Calls.org.
Eileen McCarthy Rakouskas
Florence