These are the times that try men’s souls. …If there must be trouble, let it be in my day, that my child may have peace; and this single reflection, well applied, is sufficient to awaken every man to duty. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph–Thomas Payne
Defending Democracy Against Fascism and Corporate Greed
Are we truly prepared to face the threats undermining the foundations of democracy—falsehoods, authoritarianism, and greed masquerading as governance?
America stands at a perilous juncture. At the recent town hall gathering at Clackamas Community College, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley addressed a room of citizens—alarmed but resolute. This wasn’t an ordinary meeting. It resonated as a powerful microcosm of the resistance rising to counter Trump’s authoritarian reign and the corporate billionaires who enable it. These are neighbors, activists, and voters determined to reclaim democracy from those who’ve compromised it for profit and power.
The cult of Trumpism, laced with disinformation and pro-billionaire agendas, represents a profound danger to the principles of democracy. Yet as corruption floats atop a tide of fascism, so rises the unwavering force of collective resistance. It’s time for direct action—no longer can “all hands on deck” simply be a slogan; it must become our mission.
Disinformation remains one of our greatest challenges. Social media is rife with lies that spread faster than truth, eroding public trust and confusing voters. This is no accident; chaotic misinformation serves those clinging to illegitimate power. Rebuilding trust requires nothing short of a complete overhaul of information channels—one grounded in media literacy and systems that actively eliminate falsehoods. Truth must once again take its rightful place as democracy’s greatest shield.
Donald Trump’s regime has systematically dismantled governance, steering America further into the depths of fascism. His support from ultra-wealthy backers epitomizes the dangerous nexus of authoritarianism and oligarchy. Now, the priority must be clear—mobilization to remove his influence entirely from public institutions. This includes holding corporations that fund or enable him to account. Refuse to patronize businesses owned by his supporters. Demand transparency from brands that remain complicit through silence.
We ask you to:
- Boycott companies that fund Trump and his allies.
- Organize protests at billionaire-backed corporate outlets.
- Write to your representatives to introduce legislation penalizing financial enablers of authoritarianism.
Removing Trump isn’t just about individuals—it’s about uprooting a network of greed. Billionaire donors, unchecked conglomerates, and monopolistic practices must be dismantled for genuine restoration of democracy to occur.
The erosion of faith in government institutions didn’t begin with Trump, but his blatant disregard for the rule of law has accelerated our descent. His administration showcased an obscene intertwining of personal gain and public duty, deepening divisions that will take years, even decades, to repair. Yet the solution runs deeper than merely replacing leadership. We must also demand ethical governance, transparency in decision-making, and leadership unafraid to prioritize justice over corporate interests.
Our path forward demands the prosecution of Trump and his criminal co-conspirators. Without accountability, the fractures in public trust will continue to widen, giving rise to others willing to exploit the system unchecked.
Polarization has robbed communities of the ability to engage civilly. Divisions widen as political tribalism feeds disengagement. This only strengthens those seeking autocratic dominance. To counter this, grassroots, local actions are essential. It’s within community efforts that bridges can be built. Protecting voting rights must become paramount—fighting voter suppression while expanding access to ensure equity at the ballot box.
Here’s how you can help:
- Attend local gatherings and civically engage within your community.
- Volunteer for organizations protecting voting rights.
- Educate yourself and others on tactics used to suppress marginalized voices.
- Monitor elections for fairness, ensuring every vote is counted accurately.
This fight, while noble, comes at a cost—exhaustion, anxiety, and burnout are common among defenders of democracy. Town halls like the one at Clackamas hold value not only as platforms for strategy but as spaces to foster solidarity and renewal. The mental health of activists cannot be neglected. Our ability to sustain effective resistance depends as much on personal well-being as strategic planning.
No singular leader, lawsuit, or rally can obliterate decades of systemic corruption. This fight requires united, collective resistance. The billionaires funding Trump’s fascist agenda only fear one thing—a society willing to rise, call out their greed, and demand systematic change. Individual efforts spark movements, but unshakable coalitions ignite revolutions.
If the foundations of America’s democracy crumble further, it won’t be from a lack of intention—rather, it will occur from inaction. Tyranny thrives where complacency dwells. For those who value liberty, justice, and equity, now is the time.
Here’s what you can do today:
- Boycott Billionaire Supporters of Trump – Identify brands and businesses tied to Trump’s allies or campaign contributions. Shift your spending power.
- Organize Locally – Work within your communities, bringing neighbors together to share information and host action-driven conversations.
- Demand Ethical Leadership – Hold public officials accountable. Write, call, or schedule meetings with representatives refusing to address authoritarian enablers.
- Defend Voting Rights – Volunteer to work at polling stations or collaborate with organizations advocating against voter suppression.
- Support Investigations – Advocate for thorough legal pursuits of Trump and those complicit in his abuses of power.
History doesn’t favor passive observers—it celebrates those who rise to meet its challenges head-on. Grassroots participation, compounded by collective opposition to greed and tyranny, has always been the means by which democracies are saved.
The fight for freedom will test our resolve, but rest assured, resistance rooted in community cannot fail. Join the movement to eradicate Trumpism and its billionaire enablers. America’s liberation from their grasp depends on all of us.
Rise for Democracy, Resist Greed, Seek Justice.
We can make an impact through our consumer choices. Our money has been used to support this oligarchy, and the boycott of specific companies are becoming necessary weapons for fighting against oligarchal tyranny. Lists are being made to be distributed via Facebook and email campaigns,
We are looking for people who are interested in forming community networks in their neighborhood. It is not hard, it just takes time and some basic organizational skills. Best of all, we’ll provide a how-to manual as well as the coaching for how to do it,
The goal is to connect with your anti-MAGA neighbors so you can share skills and resources, protect vulnerable members of your community, and help each other out when the government no longer can or will. While resistance work might seem discouraging if you don’t see immediate results, your neighbors will be grateful you brought them together.
If you are ready to be a hero, contact us at networkyourneighborhood@gmail.com
