Democratic Reform
Make Democracy Great Again
We have an obligation to not just fight against authoritarianism, but to fight to protect the system of democracy itself. In trying to build a better future, we must implement the following strategies
Create pro-democracy coalitions before the crisis arrives: Don't wait to organize until a problem arises. You need support and power from so many different areas of government and law. Building coalitions is time-consuming and requires legwork to establish respect and develop alignment. This also includes following pro-democracy media and news sources instead of large media companies that capitulate to the administration.
Take the opposition seriously: Frame the issues as important and impacting to everyone. Let voters know exactly what is at stake and how it will impact them specficially. Do not treat this as a simple "left v. right" political arguement. This needs to be framed less as a compeition and more as a threat.
Bigger-coalitions tend to succeed: Cross ideological and cross-sectoral groups tend to do better in resisting or outing autocrats because they tell voters how everything relates back to the bigger strategy - protecting democracy. Try to partner with groups that support the larger picture even if they're not typically related (e.g. pro-environmentalism and unions can both argue against lack of AI regulations). We are stronger together than separated.
Be welcoming: There's nothing we'd love more than to stick it to most ex-trumpers with a big I told you so, and there are definitely spaces for that. But when organizing the more important focus is helping people to realize the harm they're now experiencing and understanding comes from autocracy and that they need to work with us to restore democracy. You cannot neglect support for republicans who choose to stand up for democracy. Make it clear that this movement is not about pety rivalry and that you will fight against tyrany not simply those who don't think like you. That's the strategy of the autocrats.
Focus on a messsage of reform: Rather than just focusing on what is going wrong, coalitions need to give supporters hope in a new future. A positive vision of not just surviving the administration but flourishing afterwards is key. Talk about political reforms like eliminating the two-party system in favor of other election systems like fusion voting or proportional represenation is the way to go.
Encourage involvement and competition: Different groups will be able to serve different needs and purposes. And democracy is all about diversity of thought and ideas. Don't be afraid to support independent or non-partison public servants. In able to create a pro-democracy society groups should remember it is important to encourage other groups to succeed so long as we are all working towards the larger picture.
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