There’s a formidable social and political movement at hand in the U.S. today. Right-leaning, mostly white, Christian and cisgender persons are championing their value and values in new and far-reaching ways. They make for a powerful voting bloc that’s presently remaking our nation.
This movement emphasizes the importance of birth: that all conceived humans have the right to be born, and that bodily composition at birth defines lifetime identity.
This movement downplays “isms” – racism, sexism, etc. – in favor of equal treatment. Impacts of racism, for example, are part of the past. Promoting diversity as an egalitarian value is no longer the role of government in this view. Instead, conformity to traditional gender identities and family roles are priorities.
This movement embraces nationalism and an ideal of American greatness. Citizenship is earned; voting is a privilege of the committed and patriotic. Some now call for an end to birthright citizenship, as true citizenship entails more than just birth in a particular place. This movement sees our federal bureaucracy as bloated, controlling and unjust. Broad, decisive executive power is essential to rebalance government and protect individual freedoms in this view.
These ideas are on prominent display in the presidential campaigns of today. How far this movement takes us will depend on citizen support at the ballot box. I know how I will vote.
Tom Meuser
Portland
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