The Chasm in Our Democracy Part 2; My Thoughts about January 6, 2021

“People are trapped in history and history is trapped in them.” James Baldwin

I saw these people yesterday. Hundreds of them.

I watched them for hours. The protesters turned rioters and domestic terrorists. I witnessed these people with my own eyes. Watching as they rampaged the US Captial. Treating it as if it was a property that belonged only to them. And they were under the impression that the temporary and minor destruction of it was entirely at their disposal.

These American “patriots” as they refer to themselves, were proud and resolute in their resolve. Their goal was to stop a process that was out of their control. Just as they were out of control. And much to their disappointment. Their attempt was a failure. The only thing they did was to delay the inevitable outcome of their contempt.

It would be one thing if these were foreign enemies initiating an open war on American soil. But no. These were American citizens. Some probably from your state and mine. Fellow Americans inspired and misguided by a narcissistic failed American president. A man whom history will record as one of the worst American presidents.

Yesterday was not an Ordinary Day

On an ordinary day. The capital building is the most recognized symbol of democratic government in the US. It is where Congress meets to write laws for our nation. And where within its hallowed chambers. Presidents are confirmed and inaugurated. The US Capitol is filled with American history

But on January 6th, 2021. This historic building was was the stage for what some have called an insurrection. A modern-day revolt of sorts. One strategically planned and orchestrated in the minds and hands of American citizens.

People who by all indications seem to be trapped by American history. Sadly motivated and hell-bent on championing two of the darkest blights of American history. The sordid, but ever-present remnants of racism and white supremacy.

It was (and still is) a sobering experience to have seen with my own eyes. The chasm in our democracy even greater now than it was 4 years ago when I wrote part 1. Click below to read.

Is America Great Again Yet?

Referencing again the words of American novelist, playwright, essayist, poet and activist, James Baldwin:

I love America more than any other country in this world, and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually.

My honest critical answer to the question is a resounding “No”.

We are no greater off now than we were 4 years ago. As a matter of record. The chasm in our democracy has only increased over the years. The line of demarcation stronger and more pronounced than it has ever been in recent history.

What used to be subtle marginalization toward segments of our population has pathetically become overt. Attacks on American citizens based on race, religion, abilities, gender, orientation, and social status have become commonplace.

Undeniably this has been in direct correlation to the flawed character, communication style, personality, and immaturity of the 45th president. Many of his supporters have followed lockstep. Mimicking his way of being in the world as a badge of honor and American patriotism.

Whereas once America was seen as the beacon on the hill of democracy, power, and leadership around the world. Current newspaper headlines reflect a temporary change in our status.

“World shocked by Trump supporters’ attack on U.S. democracy” Reuters

To be clear. Being a Black woman in America. I am under no illusion America has ever been perfect. Especially not for Black people. And while there are many admirable aspects of America. There have also been countless failings. Past, present, and undoubtedly in the future.

But this is one of the strengths of America. There has always been an insatiable demand from her citizens for progress in the direction of perfection. An idea that will never be 100 percent realized. Yet we continually strive toward this aim of “…a more perfect union”.

Where Do We Go From Here?

I have accepted the reality Martin Luther King Jr. references in saying “…there are many challenging days ahead”. However, I also realize. The very nature of the gift of living life includes a path that is sprinkled with challenges along the way for all of us. This is simply the way it is.

CarlaDee, Excerpt from Part 1: The Chasm in Our Democracy; My Thoughts About the 2016 Presidential Election

This quote remains true.

What I hope for America is at a minimum we will not miss the present opportunity to properly heal our wounds. Now that we have been completely exposed for all the world to see. There is no time greater time than the present to effectively bludgeon two of the devils we know.

The racism and white supremacy so deeply embedded into the soul and fabric of the American experience can no longer be pacified. The 244-year-old twins have long outstayed their time in America. And considering our current state. If we are to gain progress from where we are today towards a more perfect union. Racism and white supremacy must be dealt their final blow.

The Time for Change is Now

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” James Baldwin

Let’s face it America. We’ve all been talking about change for a long time now. It’s demanded during every election cycle. And although I am pleased with the outcome of the recent Presidential election. As well as for the victories of the 2 newest senators in the state of Georgia.

The crux of the matter is that the change we need is bigger than any one political party or its’ candidates. We need more than this. We need the kind of change that would do these 3 things.

We need the kind of change that wields the power to heal our bleeding gaping wounds caused by racism and white supremacy once and for all.

We need the kind of change that will suffer those powerless who would resist committing to doing what is best for the greatest good of all Americans.

We need the kind of change that will finally make the words of the constitution not just a good idea. But rather a living reality for all Americans.

In Conclusion, the Question Is What Will We Do?

Let us be reminded of the words of the supreme law in the United States.

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, ensure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

The Constitution

So what will we do? Will we do it this time? Will we do what is necessary? Or, will we miss this great opportunity to become a more perfect union? We will rise like the phoenix from the ashes of our present civil unrest? Or will we once again settle for ineffective bandages to cover our gaping wounds?

Of course, I know there are no simple answers to this question. And I also know that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. But we as a nation must rise to the occasion. It is in our power of choice to make the decision to go forward and not to go backward.

CarlaDee, Excerpt from Part 1: The Chasm in Our Democracy; My Thoughts About the 2016 Presidential Election

And so this is where I stand. I remain hopeful for a more perfect union. And although there will never be a time in America when all her people agree. We don’t need 100 percent. We only need enough.

“How many would be enough?” Of course, no one knows the magic number. But I do know it’s more than we currently have committed to the cause.

So how about you? Where do you stand?

Until the next time…

Much Love & Peace,

CarlaDee