900-pound steel cylinder time capsule in Philadelphia. Credit: Al Drago, Getty Images
Philadelphia is the birthplace of the United States. Here, in 1776, those known as the founding fathers wrote the Declaration of Independence (followed in 1787 by the Constitution). In the 250th year of this country, now is an ideal time to come to a reckoning about the injustices in our society.
We have an ongoing history of guns and violence, settler colonialism, white supremacy, and genocide of indigenous peoples. Our presidents and corporate interests have contributed to prosperity for the few, at the cost of misery for others.
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Our successes have been built on the labor of enslaved people and on the stolen land of native Americans. It was in the best interests of the wealthy white landowners and profiteers to continue the practice of slavery. George Washington owned nine slaves. This story is told in the Philadelphia exhibit, “The President’s House,” which our current president has authorized to destroy.
Throughout our nation’s history, we have entered into numerous wars. Unfortunately, the military-industrial complex has become a voracious monster – with our current war on Iran, actions in Central and South America, and our involvement with Israel in Palestine and Lebanon – clear examples of imperialism and a total disregard for human life. A highly militarized ICE and the inhumane imprisonment of immigrants and refugees within our own borders present even further evidence.
Despite repression and imprisonment, those among us who refuse to let the truth die choose to persist and resist. If we are to survive as a democracy, we must have the courage to dissent. This can be a time of atonement and reparations for shameful actions in the past and today. Organizations such as CODEPINK can help us act in solidarity to unite and activate neighbors, voters, workers, congregations, and others, so that we may speak out for truth, equality, compassion, and justice.
We can build a community of neighbors. A local peace economy can replace the current and historic war economy. We need to resist war, violence, oppression, and profiteering. We must offer a peaceful existence for all people and for our planet.
Our record-breaking heat is one more example of the urgency of our time. Planet Earth is crying out for us to take care of her before it’s too late. By acting together, we can make the leap into a new future, which will fulfill the best of our natures.
We need an investment in the people—not profit. What would you fund instead of war? Take our poll now!
Written by Donna Greenberg and the CODEPINK Greater Philadelphia Chapter.
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