Re: “Chicago prepares for an influx of National Guard troops and immigration agents” (Sept. 3, Nation):
It’s undeniable that the provocation of our administration will continue to sweep from city to city. For moral liberal Americans, no game plan exists besides the textbook reactionary outraged response that falls into the clutches of conservative outlets as a pinup poster without fail.
Henry David Thoreau wrote “Civil Disobedience” 176 years ago and said sheer protest isn’t enough. Historically, protesting has been successful, but our recent outrage solely on its own may have contributed to the very spot we’re in now. We have seen that outdated playbook fail.
A modern-day Thoreau would promulgate resistance via tact and effectiveness. In other words, don’t give fodder, don’t vandalize, don’t be violent — don’t destroy. Instead, employ your local hourly workers for those household and yard work tasks (when able), donate to food banks and your local charities strategically, become a mentor, clean up trash in your neighborhood, and write letters.
Thoreau’s approach symbolizes something that American liberals currently lack — a proactive mindset. If Thoreau had the foresight for a playbook of true resistance in 1849, we could borrow a page and strive for greater outcomes. Lastly and most importantly, stay off the news.
Zach DeStefano, Seattle
