Any analysis that features the role of neoliberalism or white liberalism in bringing the country to its present impasse, while, at the same time, dimming or even removing from view the role of right wing extremism and its long ascendancy to power may sound deep and radical, but it is neither. It’s analytically wrong and strategically misguided.
The statement of retired General James Mattis sharply criticizing his former boss is a BFD. General Mattis is a revered figure in military ranks and broadly respected in elite circles and both parties. His voice carries weight beyond Washington too. Much more could be said, but suffice to say that the constellation of people and organizations that will bring down Trump and the Republican Party will be many layered and diverse. Simplistic schemes and pure forms won’t capture its complexity.
At rally and march in Kingston NY. Huge turnout and this in a city of 22,000. Mainly young and multi-racial. MLK’s “fierce urgency of now” was present and deeply felt.
In moments like the one we are in, a good thought exercise for me anyway is to ask myself: What would Martin Luther King do? I don’t always come up with the right answer, but I’m less likely to think or do something really stupid.
In my view, King, the revolutionary democrat, apostle of non-violent mass action, genuine patriot, tactician extraordinaire, strategic thinker, avatar of generosity, and visionary of a society of substantive equality and peace is the outstanding political and moral leader of the 20th century.
What is more, his person and legacy remain relevant and offer insights as we confront challenges in a new century that are profound, novel, existential, and unforeseen.
If we are smart and gracious and wise like King and Obama, we will welcome George Bush’s change in views and sensibilities. Every moment, but moments like this especially, require such a sensibility. Or, some would say, sense of grace.
The song “Amazing Grace,” sung at solemn occasions, provides a star to steer by as we travel down the road of life. Written by a repentant captain of an English slave ship, it is an invocation for grace, for forgiveness, for welcoming back a wayward son (or daughter) who has done terrible wrongs. George Bush falls into that category. In welcoming Bush’s statement, we acquire grace as well, which we will need if we hope to defeat Trump in November and, further down the road, build a “Beloved Community” and realize our full humanity.
