The Rainbow Report – Unity Against Division: An Immigrant’s Reflection on January 6th 🌈
As someone who once sought refuge from the tyranny of a system that favored the few over the many, the events of January 6th, 2021, in the United States resonate deeply with me. This day was not just an assault on a building but an attack on the very ethos of democracy. It was a vivid reminder that the freedom and democracy we often take for granted are fragile and must be actively protected.
In countries like Cuba, where I come from, the fall into authoritarianism was gradual but devastating. Good people, believing that “it could never happen here,” remained passive as their rights and freedoms were stripped away. This complacency allowed those in power to entrench themselves, using division and misinformation as their tools. The insurrection in the United States mirrored this dangerous pattern, showing that no nation is immune to the threats of fascism and toxic governance.
The key tactic of those who seek to usurp power is division. By turning us against one another, they weaken the social fabric that binds us together. Confusion and mistrust take root, and suddenly, neighbors view each other with suspicion, not solidarity. This tactic is not new; it is as old as tyranny itself.
In the U.S., the rapid pace of societal change – in technology, economic prosperity, and environmental challenges – has become a breeding ground for fear and uncertainty. Those who fear losing power exploit these changes, spreading lies and casting blame on the most vulnerable, often targeting the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the trans community. They frame these groups as the source of instability, steering the narrative away from the true source of societal challenges.
However, what these agents of division fear the most is progress – the kind of progress that comes from embracing diversity and innovation. Humanity’s greatest potential lies in our collective ability to overcome the impossible. Our diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills are not just an asset; they are our superpower in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
As we remember the events of January 6th, it is crucial that we stand against oppression in all its forms. We must recognize and celebrate diversity’s power of innovation to our nation and the world. Our LGBTQ+ siblings, especially those in the trans community, are not a threat to our society; they are an integral part of it, contributing to its richness and vitality.
To protect our democracy and work towards a more perfect union, we must embrace those on the margins. We must reach across any created divides, recognizing that our true strength lies in our unity and shared values. The insurrection was a wake-up call, a reminder that democracy is not a spectator sport. It requires our active participation, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to truth and justice.
Let us use this moment in history to reaffirm our commitment to each other and to the ideals of democracy. Let’s work together to build a society that values and uplifts every individual, recognizing that our collective power is the key to making the impossible possible. Let’s protect our democracy and continue striving to make this imperfect union more perfect, one step at a time.
By: Harold Marrero
Chief Operating Officer
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