Twenty-first century minutemen
In his book “On Tyranny,” Timothy Snyder writes that the first rule of successful resistance is, “Don’t obey in advance.” Those who caved early to potential threats by the Trump regime only taught it how low they’re willing to bow.
Our neighbors in Merrimack went one better, though: they resisted in advance. After finding evidence of a proposed ICE prison there, they rallied in the hundreds at the town hall. Every news outlet in New Hampshire and beyond made sure the ICE plan was exposed.
In this semiquincentennial year, with the regime occupying Minneapolis, it’s useful to make Revolutionary War comparisons. Both government armies think their flashy uniforms and superior armaments project power and instill fear. They are indeed ruthless, but they’re also lumbering, unimaginative and over-confident.
Like our 18th century ancestors, 21st century minutemen are clever and nimble. Minneapolis is holding fast against the ICE siege by building networks to feed, clothe, and protect their neighbors, and they’re showing up in the thousands to resist and bear witness. We in New Hampshire know about the plans for Merrimack because community networks are vigilant and spreading the word.
We’re very lucky, because after our ancestors won the war, they created a framework for a peaceful, self-governing society that succeeding generations have worked to make more perfect. The regime is confused and angry because the more force they use, the more we come together. All they have going for them is violence. We have our history, our rights and each other. Courage.