On first blush my thoughts this week don’t have a lot to do with the environment, but stick with me here. I’m part way through the Ken Burns documentary The US and the Holocaust. The news this morning included the election of an actual fascist party to lead the government of Italy. The January 6 Committee is gearing up for another public hearing on the efforts to prevent a peaceful transfer of power in 2021.
What all this has me thinking is how quickly large segments of the population are willing to fall in line and accept an authoritarian view of the world. It has probably always been like this, but there is plenty of evidence that this tendency remains and that is as dangerous as it is frightening.
Authoritarianism relies on a lot of dark features, but one constant is controlling the narrative to maintain power. There isn’t room for popular opinion in authoritarian regimes, nor is there much respect for the interest the governed have in equity and a sustainable environment. We all stand to lose a lot to the rise in authoritarianism. Retaining a voice in our environmental future is just one of many reasons why we must all take notice and remain engaged in civic life. An informed and engaged populace is the best defense against the loss of basic liberties and all the negatives that come along for that ride.
Fall town meetings are soon; read your town meeting warrant and show up and speak you mind. There are important elections everywhere in November; make your plan to vote now. Early voting has started in some places and mail-in ballots are available. Make the effort; it matters that you vote. Just look around if you have any doubts.
