Avoiding Distractions in Challenging Times
The year 2023 is coming to an end, and as the holiday season approaches, many find it difficult to embrace the usual festivities. In a time when our attention is needed more than ever, the celebrations feel like yet another distraction. While Christmas and New Year’s are important observations, the timing couldn’t be worse. Our focus should be directed towards pressing issues such as the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the urgent need for global climate action, and the concerning state of our judicial system.
The Importance of Staying Informed
The world is at an inflection point, and we cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the events shaping up to make 2024 a terrifying year. Simple greetings of “happy holidays” that used to bring cheer now feel like mere whispers in the wind. Amidst the chaos, a disturbing realization has dawned upon us: the possibility of Donald Trump winning a second presidency. A man devoid of moral character and empathy, charged with serious crimes, including an attempt to overthrow the very government he was meant to lead, could be returned to power. Such an outcome threatens the very essence of democracy and undermines the idea of a government working for the public good.
The Erosion of Pluralism
Reflecting on our journey as a nation, it becomes evident that the United States had, to some extent, accepted itself as a pluralistic society by 2016. Despite differences in political ideologies, a majority of voters agreed on various fundamental rights. The fight for equality, fair wages, reproductive rights, and the right to dissent had garnered widespread consensus. However, a second term for Trump would shatter this foundation. The nation would be reshaped by a fervent minority, driven by religious zealotry and a rejection of pluralism. Their goal is to dismantle the progress made towards justice and reshape the country to fit their own narrow vision, fueled by racial superiority and xenophobia.
The Role of Religion and Violence
Underlying the rise of this radical minority is the significant influence of evangelical Christianity in right-wing politics. This religious fervor, combined with the corrosive force of racism, has redefined political dynamics. Belief in racial superiority has long been intertwined with religious zeal, upholding oppressive traditions as sacred and worth defending at any cost. The proliferation of guns and the willingness to use violence has become an integral part of both the religious right and the “anti-woke” movement’s strategies to maintain power.
Confronting the Reality
While the bigger picture is troubling, it is essential to acknowledge the personal impact. The fact that a significant portion of our fellow Americans actively supports or tolerates such a dark vision of our country is deeply disheartening. Trump himself may be dreadful, but it is the support of his base that truly disturbs. Unfortunately, the media, obsessed with Trump, often overlooks this fundamental issue. The base represents the impending Armageddon; without their unwavering support, Trump would be nothing more than an irrelevant figure.
Reflection Amidst Turmoil?
As we enter a season traditionally associated with love, family, and new beginnings, it becomes difficult to maintain optimism. How can we venerate the birth of Jesus when Christianity itself has become a destructive force within our nation? How can we celebrate a new year when the campaign to dismantle pluralistic America continues unabated?
Finding Balance Amidst Chaos
Some may argue that the holidays provide an opportunity for reflection and rejuvenation, allowing us to momentarily escape from the burning world around us. While this holds true in theory, the urgent need to confront the dismantling of pluralistic values cannot be ignored. The fight for justice and equality does not take a holiday, and neither can we.
Erin Aubry Kaplan is a contributing writer to Opinion.
