25Jul, 2025
    QAnon Shaman is Shamin’

    Jacob Chansley, known as the QAnon shaman, led the January 6 assault. He donned horns and face paint. Trump pardoned him when he returned in January 2025. Chansley’s posts on X first praised Trump. They read: “THANK YOU PRESIDENT TRUMP…” Then he threatened: “NOW I AM GONNA BUY SOME MOTHA FU*KIN GUNS!!!” His tone seemed loyal and extreme.

    But months later, his tone shifted dramatically. He criticized Trump. He called Trump a “fraud” after seeing the mugshot. He used foul language against Trump and Israel. He deleted this post quickly. Yet screenshots spread widely on social media.

    His shift denotes deep frustration. Chansley questioned why Trump withheld Epstein’s client list. He typed: “What do you think Epstein & Isreal have on Trump???” He demanded answers from Trump’s inner circle. This public betrayal shocked many Trump loyalists. The shaman abandoned his mythic support.

    From Loyalist to Harsh Critic

    Chansley originally embraced Trump’s messages. He joined MAGA chants and conspiracy forums. He believed Trump would expose elite pedophiles. He called Epstein’s case pivotal for justice. Then Trump acted contrary. He offered pardons but not transparency. He ignored demands for Epstein files.

    Chansley’s anger mirrored broader QAnon disillusionment. Other fervent Trump backers began raising doubts. Marjorie Taylor Greene expressed frustration. Tucker Carlson questioned Trump’s secrecy. Influencers echoed similar suspicion online. Some cited Trump’s silence about Epstein. They asked for documents or public hearings.

    This quiet rebellion grew in July 2025. Chansley’s post had real impact. It landed attention across platforms. He became a symbol of disappointment and distrust.

    Why the Shaman’s Anger Matters

    Chansley’s defection carries weight. He was a living icon of Trump’s core base. If he breaks away, others may follow. His criticism risks weakening Trump’s grip. It fuels internal discontent in MAGA circles. It undermines the narrative of Trump as hero.

    Secrecy breeds suspicion. Trump’s refusal to release Epstein evidence hints at hidden deals. His supporters expected full disclosure. Instead, they got silence. That silence erodes loyalty fast. The shaman’s language reflects that erosion.

    Trump’s pardons also show hypocrisy. He pardoned violent actors while shielding the elite. His base sees injustice in those acts. Chansley’s betrayal highlights that tension.

    At the Turning Point

    The shaman’s defection marks change. It shows MAGA is fracturing. It signals possible collapse of faith. The base no longer trusts unquestioningly. They demand truth, not slogans. They want documents, not evasions. Trump may face deeper internal rebellions soon.

    @meidastouch

    Trump supporters post videos online of themselves setting their MAGA hats ablaze after Trump’s post about Epstein. 7/12/25

    ♬ Mysterious and sad BGM(1120058) – S and N

    The shaman’s furious posts spotlight deeper issues. His rage is not random. It stems from broader movement discontent. Other QAnon adherents echo his disappointment. This moment could define Trump’s legacy among conspiracist circles.

    Chansley’s shift demands attention. It warns of rising dissent. It urges scrutiny of Trump’s silent dealings. It reminds us that even staunch fanatics can turn.

    Resources

    24Jul, 2025
    Erosion of Democracy?

    Ok, I know you’re frustrated. Maybe even confused. You’ve read the headlines, heard the soundbites, and sat through the hearings—and you’re still wondering:
    How did Trump get away with welcoming foreign help in 2016? Why wasn’t he impeached then? And why, even now, with multiple indictments, does it still feel like justice is stalled?

    You’re not alone. Millions of Americans struggle to understand how our laws and systems have failed to hold a man accountable who openly invited foreign interference—and continues to manipulate the system.

    The Beginning of a Dangerous Pattern

    This didn’t start with the Capitol riot or “Stop the Steal.” It started in 2016, when a major party candidate publicly said, “Russia, if you’re listening…” and then accepted stolen data from a hostile foreign government. That moment should have disqualified him. Instead, it became his blueprint.

    The Mueller Report detailed extensive contacts between Trump’s campaign and Russian operatives. It outlined possible obstruction of justice. But prosecution required a high legal bar. The political will to act was low. Mueller’s chilling conclusion: “If we had confidence the president did not commit a crime, we would have said so.” Yet, nothing happened.

    Playing Loopholes, Not by the Rules

    These people don’t play by rules—they play loopholes. They don’t need to break the law outright when they can lean on ambiguity, delay, and chaos. It’s not about truth. It’s about distraction. If you flood the field with lies and spin, the public grows numb. The system overloads. Consequences fade.

    Despite damning reports, accountability has remained elusive. Trump’s team walks a tightrope—skirting prosecutable law, using misdirection and delay to escape full consequence. What happened in 2016 wasn’t just oversight failure—it was deliberate erosion of democratic principles. It set the tone for his post-presidency and current agenda.

    Where Things Stand Now

    As of July 2025, Donald J. Trump faces four active criminal cases:

    • Federal Election Interference (Special Counsel Jack Smith): Attempts to overturn the 2020 election.
    • Federal Classified Documents (Mar-a-Lago): Willful retention of national defense materials and obstruction.
    • Georgia Election Interference (Fulton County): Conspiring to overturn 2020 Georgia results, charged under RICO.
    • New York Hush Money Case: Falsifying business records to cover hush payments during 2016.

    These cases are historic. Yet trials face delays and appeals, pushing them past the 2024 election. This stalling is strategic—a legal chess game eroding public trust.

    The Epstein Files and the Shell Game

    Trump is also under scrutiny for another reason: in May 2025, former Attorney General Pam Bondi privately told him his name appears multiple times in DOJ files related to Jeffrey Epstein. These mentions are unverified and shrouded in secrecy because the DOJ refuses to release the files, citing victim privacy and the presence of child pornography in the records. Trump denies wrongdoing and is suing the Wall Street Journal for reporting this.

    But this isn’t just about allegations or court battles. It’s about distraction. As media and public attention zero in on Epstein’s shadowy files and Trump’s involvement, it gives space for other agendas to move forward quietly—laws get passed, policies shift, and powers consolidate while eyes are elsewhere.

    This is the shell game Trump excels at. Keep the public chasing one story, while the bigger, more dangerous plays happen behind the curtain. Whether it’s rolling back voting rights, weakening oversight, or reshaping institutions to his advantage, the Epstein files story diverts critical scrutiny away from ongoing threats to democracy.

    We can’t fall for this again. We have to look beyond the distractions, ask the tough questions, and demand transparency—not just about Trump, but about what else is being pushed through while our attention is stolen.

    Why This Matters

    This is not normal. This is not just politics. This is calculated manipulation—blurring legality and morality enough to get away with both.

    We are living through a historic moment of democratic erosion. Whether we stand by or stand up will define what comes next.

    23Jul, 2025
    📣 Meet the Candidate: A Conversation with Travis Terrell

    Recently, our very own Stef sat down for an in-depth conversation with Travis Terrell—Democratic candidate and passionate advocate for working-class Iowans. This wasn’t just a campaign Q&A; it was a candid look into what drives him, where he stands, and how he hopes to serve. For those of us in Iowa looking for leaders who truly listen and lead with heart, this interview offers a window into the man behind the campaign. Here’s what he shared with us.

    Background & Motivation

    What in your personal history drives you to serve now—and why this race, in this moment?

    Candidate Terrell draws motivation from his family and the challenges they’ve faced.
    He watched his parents work hard their entire lives and still struggle to make ends meet. His mother worked as a custodian and tried to retire at 60 due to back pain. However, she couldn’t because the system denied her Social Security and healthcare—even after she had paid into it since the age of 16.

    Now, at 70, she worries about becoming homeless because of proposed cuts. This pain deeply affects him. His whole family has experienced the injustice of our social systems, and that drives his commitment to change.

    You’ve previously run in a district many consider “unwinnable” for Democrats. What keeps you coming back?

    He wants to see families live and die with dignity.

    Values & Vision

    What does democracy mean to you today—and how do you plan to protect and advance it in this increasingly hostile political climate?

    He wants to ensure that everyone has the right to vote.
    To make that happen, he proposes a more user-friendly system that automatically registers people when they turn 18 through the Social Security system or the DMV.

    In addition, he supports legislation that secures the legal right to peaceful protest. He refers to removing protest-related fees and ensuring that public space remains accessible for people to raise their voices.

    How do you plan to balance progressive ideals with the conservative tilt of this district without losing core values?

    Candidate Terrell believes the key lies in addressing the needs and fears of farmers and many “traditional” Republicans.
    By doing so, he hopes to reassure people across the political spectrum that everyone has a beneficial place at the table. He believes we can build a system that works for all of us.

    Accountability & Transparency

    If elected, what mechanisms will you implement to ensure transparency and ongoing dialogue with constituents?

    He encourages voters to visit his Facebook page and review a transparency-focused bill he shared there.
    Moreover, he wants to keep communication open by hosting town hall meetings, responding to messages, and consistently asking for feedback.

    What’s a political position you’ve held in the past that’s changed—and why?

    This question wasn’t easy for him to answer right away. After some reflection, he mentioned his views on holidays and historic observances.
    He initially didn’t recognize changes to statues and holidays as a major issue. However, the current administration’s efforts to reverse or politicize these designations changed his perspective. Now, he sees it as a problem that demands attention.

    Campaign & Strategy

    Your opponent has access to significant funding and institutional support. What is your strategy to counter this imbalance?

    He plans to spend every possible moment going door to door and meeting people where they are.

    Will your campaign take money from PACs or corporations—and what limits will you place on campaign financing?

    He is not taking any money from PACs or corporations.
    However, he remains open to possible union support, as long as it aligns with his values. He wants to avoid unwanted influences and stay connected to the people he serves.

    Justice & Equity

    How will your leadership protect marginalized communities in Iowa, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color?

    “Lives should not be policy.”
    He believes everyone should live their lives as they are. In addition, he calls for stronger federal protections for marginalized communities—policies that cannot be easily reversed or undermined.

    Where do you stand on reproductive freedom, and what legislative moves would you back on a federal level?

    He strongly supports the idea that all healthcare decisions—including reproductive healthcare—should remain between the provider and the individual.
    According to Terrell, reproductive health must be “given back to the people” and fully protected from government control.

    Personal Perspective

    What keeps you grounded during a campaign cycle, and who are the people or ideas that keep you motivated?

    Candidate Terrell says his mother and brother keep him grounded.
    They currently work, or have worked, at Dr. Pepper / Everright in Ottumwa. These roots keep him focused on what matters.

    He also emphasizes the importance of bringing union bargaining power back into the workplace. Workers deserve a livable wage and fair treatment.

    What’s the most misunderstood thing about you—and what do you want voters to truly know?

    He wants voters to understand that, although he’s running as a Democrat, he doesn’t believe in simply following the party line.
    He isn’t in this to get rich. Instead, he plans to stay middle class and stay grounded. His goal is to reduce suffering, make a difference, and give a voice to families like his own.

    Final Thoughts

    Travis Terrell isn’t running for office to play politics—he’s running to make people’s lives better. Grounded by his family’s struggles and guided by a deep belief in fairness, transparency, and dignity, he offers a different kind of leadership: one that listens first and acts with purpose. Whether it’s protecting reproductive freedom, ensuring fair wages, or safeguarding democracy itself, Terrell’s vision is rooted in lived experience and a desire to serve.

    As Iowans face mounting challenges, voices like his remind us that real change is still possible—if we’re willing to show up, speak out, and support candidates who reflect our values.

    Interviewed by: Stef, Head Guerilla of SE Iowa

    23Jul, 2025
    🗳️ 5 Questions With Travis Terrell

    1. What specific failures or shortcomings of Rep. Miller-Meeks do you feel most compelled to correct, and how will your leadership be different?

    “She is a Trump parrot!” was Candidate Terrel’s initial response about Rep. Miller-Meeks.
    He is going to strive to be available and actually answer questions. In addition, he plans to hold Town Hall meetings, respond with transparency, and hold others accountable for their voting choices.

    2. Many rural Iowans feel politically abandoned—what concrete plans do you have to bring resources and representation back to these communities?

    Candidate Terrell has set a personal goal to hold a town hall in all the small towns in his district.
    Importantly, he hopes to hold meetings all year—not just during voting seasons.

    3. Iowa’s youth are leaving in droves. What are you doing to make this state a place young people want to stay, live, and lead?

    Candidate Terrell agrees that we need to make Iowa welcoming for all.
    This includes undoing the legislation that marginalizes communities, particularly those that threaten women’s health care.

    He feels many providers are leaving Iowa due to laws that limit women’s healthcare access and restrict their practice.
    Additionally, Candidate Terrell wants to create more opportunities for green energy. He will also investigate how we can be more productive and safe.

    4. The Democratic Party in Iowa has struggled to gain traction. Why should voters believe your campaign is different?

    He wants to fight for equal rights for everyone.
    Moreover, he emphasizes that we must become more progressive and welcoming to all people.

    Everyone deserves a livable environment—free from the fear of food insecurity and homelessness.

    5. If elected, what will success look like at the end of your first term—and what should voters hold you accountable for?

    Policy that moves us forward!

    He will work for elections that are safe and based on paper ballots. Furthermore, he supports real-time vote tallying to keep elections honest.

    He wants to protect everyone’s freedom.

    He will also protect workers from abuse and unsafe environments. This includes supporting unions, OSHA, and other labor protections.

    Reported by: Stef Y., Head Guerilla of SE Iowa

    23Jul, 2025
    Protect & Serve – Who? Yourselves? Not McNeil.

    When Compliance Isn’t Enough: A Call for Accountability and Protection

    I just watched the deeply disturbing video out of Jacksonville, Florida, from February 19, 2025, where 22‑year‑old Black student William McNeil Jr. was violently pulled from his vehicle and beaten—all after he calmly asked to speak with a supervisor and questioned why he was being pulled over.

    He was sitting with his hands visible, asking innocent questions—until officers escalated the situation: one smashed open his driver-side window, punched him in the face, and, along with others, dragged and beat him on the ground. There was no immediate threat, no weapon brandished, but the punches came anyway. AP News

    These actions go beyond enforcement—they’re outright aggression. They reflect a dangerous eagerness, a cavalier use of force that in any other context would be condemned. From my half‑white, half‑privileged viewpoint, it’s clear: this was excessive—and unacceptable.

    🔍 Here’s what happened with McNeil:

    • McNeil questioned why his headlights were off (it was daylight); the officer demanded he exit. McNeil asked for a supervisor and locked his door. CBS News
    • After three minutes of resisting exit, the officer smashed the window and used closed-fist strikes. McNeil was handcuffed, suffering a chipped tooth, stitches, and a concussion. People.com
    • Investigations followed: the State Attorney found no criminal wrongdoing, though administrative reviews are underway and one officer was suspended. AP

    To every person of color—and to everyone who cares about them:

    If dash cams and interior car cameras are within reach, get one. If you know someone who might benefit, this makes a powerful gift. These devices don’t lie—they capture truth when words fail.

    To car manufacturers:

    Let’s talk innovation. Outfitting side‑view or rear‑view mirrors with built‑in, high‑quality cameras is no longer optional—it’s essential. Vehicles equipped this way could offer critical evidence during interactions that escalate without justification.

    Because the system won’t always police itself, we must. We the people—with our cameras, our voices, our demand for transparency—will insist on accountability. One camera. One recorded moment. One truth. At a time when authority meets violence, it’s us who must hold the lens.

    In Solidarity always,

    -Judy T.

    22Jul, 2025
    The High Cost of the Spotlight

    How Trump’s Own Cameras Keep Betraying Him

    Fame is a tricky currency. It inflates egos, fuels ambition, and—if you’re not careful—documents every lie you’ve ever told. Donald Trump understood this early on. Long before reality TV or presidential campaigns, he paid the National Enquirer to publish salacious stories about his affairs. This wasn’t just about scandal—it was a calculated move to promote his name, his wealth, and his image to the masses.

    From those early tabloid gambits to gold-plated elevator announcements, Trump has relentlessly built a persona fueled by spectacle. However, when your life is a performance, every slip, contradiction, and untruth becomes permanent record. For a man obsessed with image, this has become a haunting reality.

    Chasing Fame, Forgetting Consequences

    Donald Trump didn’t stumble into fame—he pursued it relentlessly. From The Apprentice to a presidential campaign launched amid golden elevators, Trump has built his persona on bold declarations and brash theatrics. Yet, he never seemed to grasp that cameras don’t just capture moments—they preserve history.

    Fame isn’t free. It holds receipts.

    Lie #1: “I Don’t Know Who She Is”

    In 2023, a jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing E. Jean Carroll and defaming her afterward. Trump denied any relationship, claiming not to know her.

    Photographic and testimonial evidence show Trump and Carroll socialized publicly for years. The inconsistencies in his statements severely damaged his defense.

    Lie #2: “I Never Asked for Loyalty”

    Then-FBI Director James Comey testified Trump asked for “loyalty” in 2017 before firing him. Trump denied this, but multiple accounts and the released testimony support Comey’s claim, fueling the Mueller investigation.

    Lie #3: “The Election Was Stolen”

    Trump claimed widespread voter fraud in 2020, but his Attorney General William Barr stated the DOJ found no evidence of fraud affecting the election outcome.

    Additionally, transcripts and interviews reveal Trump privately admitted he lost the election.

    Lie #4: “I Took the Pandemic Seriously”

    Trump publicly downplayed COVID-19, but secretly admitted to Bob Woodward that the virus was dangerous and deadly.

    The Epstein Files: The Ultimate Lie of Denial

    Trump’s shifting stories about Jeffrey Epstein contradict decades of photos and flight logs showing their close association. Epstein’s “black book” and various investigations place Trump in Epstein’s circle multiple times.

    Trump’s claims the “Epstein Files” are a hoax clash with an overwhelming body of evidence.

    When Fame and Lies Collide, Cameras Become Prosecutors

    Trump’s decades-long relationship with Epstein, documented extensively in photos and public records, stands as a monument to the perils of chasing fame without accountability. His repeated lies are desperate attempts to rewrite history under the unforgiving glare of media and public scrutiny.

    Yet many older articles exposing these lies have vanished from mainstream platforms. This pattern reveals Trump’s influence over media channels, where controlling the narrative is as important as shaping it.

    The cameras don’t lie—but if the footage disappears or the stories vanish, does the truth get a chance to live?

    Final Thoughts: The Price of the Spotlight

    There’s a high cost to fame lived in front of cameras: every lie, every misstep, and every denial remains on permanent display. For Trump, this cost is credibility, legacy, and trust.

    The Epstein files are the culmination of a lifetime of carefully constructed falsehoods, exposed in vivid detail. In a world where cameras never stop rolling, the truth is both the most dangerous adversary—and the ultimate judge.

    Closing Thoughts: When Media Control Silences Truth

    Over the course of writing this editorial, I sought to back every claim with credible, publicly accessible sources. However, I repeatedly encountered broken links, missing pages, and 404 errors from major news outlets. These vanished articles are more than inconvenient—they reveal the immense power that Trump and his allies wield over media narratives.

    By quietly erasing evidence, restricting access, and influencing platforms, they attempt to shield their stories from scrutiny. This makes uncovering truth harder, but not impossible. It also shows why it is critical to preserve and share verified facts widely before they disappear.

    Below is a list of key articles and sources I initially tried to reference, now mostly unreachable, highlighting the ongoing battle between transparency and media control.

    404 Errors: Not So Silent Censors

    1. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/10/04/trump-e-jean-carroll-photo-deposition/
    2. https://www.npr.org/2017/05/11/527595272/trump-asked-fbi-director-james-comey-for-loyalty-sources-say
    3. https://www.politico.com/story/2017/05/11/trump-comey-loyalty-238440
    4. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/justice-department/barr-says-no-evidence-widespread-voter-fraud-2020-election-n1259685
    5. https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/15/politics/jonathan-karl-trump-abc-interview/index.html
    6. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2020/09/09/bob-woodward-trump-coronavirus/
    7. https://abcnews.go.com/US/times-trumps-appeared-epstein-files-doj-released/story?id=123848078

    By sharing this list openly, I emphasize that the battle to hold powerful figures accountable often includes a fight over which facts remain visible—and which are erased. Despite these obstacles, the truth behind the lies remains, waiting for those willing to seek it out.

    I hope you understand that this current President is a compulsive liar, who doesn’t take national security seriously. Just look at the reaction to “Signalgate”. It seems it’s all he knows how to do.

    -Judy T.

    21Jul, 2025
    Violence begets violence and other things to keep in mind

    Stokely Carmichael once said:
    “The problem with nonviolence is that we have never truly been violent.”

    He had a point when he said that. Although to me, the major hiccup with nonviolence was that we never really gave violence a fair shot—and history, with its twisted sense of humor, keeps nodding in agreement. I am in no way suggesting we become violent. However, when you look at all those times when “bad actors” took it upon themselves to spice up peaceful gatherings with a dash of uninvited violence against law enforcement, things go sideways fast. People who were just exercising their rights (legally, might I add) became targets immediately.

    Kent State: A Peaceful Protest Turned Tragedy

    Take, for example, the serene student protest at Kent State University on May 1st, 1970. It was all peace and love—until the National Guard thought it would be a stellar idea to turn a campus protest into target practice. The result? Four students dead and nine wounded.

    Let’s be honest: at the time those shots were fired, those infantrymen were about as threatened as a bear is by a goldfish. And later—big surprise—it turned out that opening fire was completely uncalled for. Why? Because “someone” threw a rock.

    We’ve Seen This Movie Before

    Here we are, years later, and it feels like we’re stuck in a rerun. With the number of actual threats to our rights out there, you’d think we’d have learned by now. You’d think we’d be smart enough to keep an eye out for those troublemakers who sneak into protests with the finesse of a bull in a china shop—just to get a rise out of law enforcement, then disappear and blame minorities.

    Because of course, it’s always easier to blame the Black and brown people who were just minding their own business. We need to be more observant, more attentive, and more diligent when it comes to participating. Always be aware of your surroundings. You may prevent a tragedy by doing so.

    The Usual Suspects

    From the more recent chapters of our history, it’s clear we’ve got guests at our peaceful protests who love nothing more than to provoke and then watch the chaos unfold. Would you believe—some of them are even cops in disguise? Or day-tripping white supremacists who thought it would be fun to turn a peaceful march into their own version of demolition derby during the George Floyd protests.

    Walk Carefully, March Smarter

    With this enlightening perspective, it seems our community needs to handle protest participation like handling a porcupine. When you do hit the streets, maybe do it with more caution. Thoroughly vet who you’re marching with. Vet the individuals you support. And for heaven’s sake, keep your own nose so clean it sparkles.

    Why? Because progressives are a finicky, nit-picky bunch. They’ll split their allegiances from an organization or individual because you personally turned 18 a month before your girlfriend in high school—or because you posted a pic in support of that person or group. You don’t want to be the reason for that crossfire—or get caught in it.

    – Shade B.

    20Jul, 2025
    Boycott, who, what, why?

    Are you as confused or overwhelmed as I am with the different boycotts going on?

    You’re not alone.

    With so many headlines flying around—one day it’s Disney, the next it’s Tesla or Paramount—it’s hard to keep up with who’s being boycotted and why. But one thing is clear: Americans are fed up. Whether it’s corporations pushing political agendas, silencing dissenting voices, or prioritizing profit over people, many of us are looking for peaceful, impactful ways to push back.

    One powerful way? Intentional, informed boycotting.

    Below is a clear, categorized list of corporate boycotts you can participate in right now—both nationally and internationally. Whether your concerns center around censorship, worker rights, government overreach, or propaganda pipelines, there’s a way for you to make your dollar count.

    🛑 U.S. Corporate Boycotts You Can Join

    🎬 Media & Entertainment Boycotts

    These companies have been accused of removing dissenting voices, aligning too closely with federal messaging, or suppressing political speech.

    • Paramount Global & CBS – Accused of cutting ties with journalists and entertainers who don’t align with prevailing political narratives.
    • Disney & ABC – Criticized for excessive DEI implementation, narrative control, and political favoritism.
    • Warner Bros. Discovery (CNN, HBO) – Corporate restructuring reportedly tied to content censorship and voice silencing.
    • Spotify – Targeted for removing political podcasts and limiting creator visibility.
    • YouTube (Google) – Accused of demonetizing or hiding protest content and political journalism.

    🛒 Retail, Tech & Service Boycotts

    These businesses face scrutiny for exploiting workers, colluding with government surveillance, or undermining American labor dignity.

    • Amazon – Boycott for union-busting, worker treatment, and surveillance tech partnerships.
    • Tesla – Targeted due to union opposition and political overlap via Elon Musk’s influence and government contracts.
    • Apple – Criticized for restricting app access to protest tools and allowing authoritarian regimes influence.
    • Google (Alphabet) – Boycotts over biased search visibility and surveillance integration.
    • Meta (Facebook & Instagram) – Censorship of protest organizers, biased moderation, and data selling.
    • AT&T / DirecTV – Facing backlash for removing politically aligned networks like Newsmax or OAN.

    🌍 International Boycotts to Consider

    These are not U.S.-focused, but if you’re seeking broader ethical alignment, they may be worth watching.

    • NestlĂŠ – Longstanding boycott over water privatization, child labor, and corporate ethics.
    • Unilever – DEI backlash and ethical criticism around supply chains and political stances.
    • TikTok (ByteDance) – Privacy concerns, youth targeting, and foreign influence over content.

    ✊ How to Protest Beyond Boycotts

    Boycotts are just one way to push back. You can also:

    📚 Resources & Further Reading

    19Jul, 2025
    Why PBS Needs Stephen Colbert Now

    In today’s media landscape, public trust is crumbling. Traditional fundraising models are falling short. Meanwhile, PBS continues to rely heavily on pledge drives and telethons to stay afloat. But what if there were a better way—one that merges entertainment, civic engagement, and fundraising power?

    It’s time to make the case for Stephen Colbert on PBS.

    Colbert Nation: A Loyal Audience That Gives

    Stephen Colbert has built something few entertainers ever achieve—a deeply loyal and action-ready fanbase. Known as Colbert Nation, this audience doesn’t just watch passively. They donate. They show up. They care.

    Back in 2010, Colbert raised over $773,000 for public school classrooms through DonorsChoose.org. Around the same time, when the U.S. Speedskating Team couldn’t afford to attend the Olympics, Colbert stepped in. His fundraising efforts helped send American athletes to the world stage.

    Additionally, let’s not forget the brilliance of his satirical Super PAC, Americans for a Better Tomorrow, Tomorrow. Incredibly, it raised over $1 million, all while educating the public on how campaign finance really works. Colbert didn’t just entertain—he educated, activated, and transformed viewers into donors and doers.

    Through it all, Colbert proved that comedy can be more than entertainment—it can be fuel for civic action.

    PBS Fundraising Could Be Transformed

    PBS is respected for its integrity, mission, and educational value. Yet year after year, it must rely on pledge drives to stay funded. Telethons are nostalgic but increasingly outdated. The audience is aging, and younger generations are tuning out.

    This is where Stephen Colbert could make all the difference.

    He’s not just a household name. He’s a trusted voice with a track record of mobilizing action. By bringing him to PBS, fundraising would no longer rely solely on nostalgia or repeated pleas for donations. Instead, the platform could evolve—modernize—while staying true to its public mission.

    To highlight that transition, it’s worth remembering how we got here.

    A Nod to Jerry Lewis — and a Way Forward

    Before digital fundraisers and online platforms, telethons were the gold standard. Jerry Lewis, in particular, set that bar. His decades-long commitment to the Muscular Dystrophy Association raised over $2 billion. More importantly, his marathon broadcasts became a cultural staple and showed America the power of performance-driven generosity.

    However, times have changed.

    What Jerry Lewis achieved through hours of emotional appeal, Stephen Colbert can now accomplish in minutes—using satire, sharp commentary, and digital reach. His presence on PBS could revive the spirit of those iconic moments, but with a voice and tone that resonate today.

    This isn’t a replacement for history. It’s a continuation—reimagined for the times.

    Bringing Colbert to PBS would breathe life into fundraising. He’s not just a celebrity—he’s a proven fundraiser, civic advocate, and national treasure. With his voice leading campaigns, telethons could shrink. Donations could rise. Younger viewers might tune in again, and a new generation could be introduced to the power of public media.

    A Chance to Say What Corporate Media Won’t

    Recently, CBS—like many corporations—buckled under political pressure. As a result, Colbert’s platform vanished. But he didn’t. He never backed down. He called out falsehoods, challenged propaganda, and stayed true to his values.

    PBS doesn’t need to follow in corporate footsteps. It has the power to elevate a truth-teller where others tried to quiet him.

    Colbert represents the very values PBS claims to champion: public service, education, humor, and integrity. This is more than a ratings boost. It’s a signal that PBS stands for something.

    His exact mix of intellect, humor, and moral clarity embodies the best of public broadcasting. Inviting him in isn’t just smart—it’s a statement of purpose.

    The Final Word

    Stephen Colbert has already proven his impact. Colbert inspires people to care. Amazingly, he raises millions for good causes. He teaches through comedy and moves audiences to act.

    Two birds, one stone.

    So, if you’re not ready to welcome him to PBS?
    Fine.

    Let’s just nominate him for President and see how quickly that rattles the fragile ego currently occupying the White House.

    Sources

    18Jul, 2025
    📣 Let’s Rise Together: Join the One Million Rising Movement

    Hi everyone,

    I want to share a powerful new opportunity with you—one I wish I had shared sooner. It’s called One Million Rising, and it’s a national campaign focused on building real, lasting people power through strategic resistance and organizing. I missed the initial announcement due to taking a short break, and I truly apologize for not getting it out earlier. The good news? You can still catch up and take part!

    What Is One Million Rising?

    One Million Rising is a training initiative to help one million people across the country prepare to fight back against authoritarian threats. This isn’t about one-time action—it’s about long-term strategy, grounded in non-cooperation, community organizing, and campaign design.

    We’re seeing coordinated attacks on our democracy, civil rights, and basic freedoms. From mass deportations to weaponized courts, the dangers are real. However, we don’t have to face them alone. Together, we can organize and resist—with purpose.

    🎥 Missed Session 1? Catch Up Now

    Although the first session already happened, the full recording is available online. Watching it will help prepare you for what’s coming next. It explains the vision behind One Million Rising and sets the stage for action.

    ▶️ Watch Session 1 here:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4496VWDjwS0

    If you can, try to watch it before the second session on July 30.

    🗓️ Upcoming Sessions (All Times 7:00–8:30 PM CST)

    Here’s what’s coming up:

    • Session 2: How to Make It Happen – July 30
      In this session, participants will explore how to host effective community discussions and begin forming local resistance gatherings. You’ll gain practical tools for bringing others into the movement and organizing locally with confidence.
    • Session 3: What Now? – August 13
      This final session covers the basics of campaign planning. It also helps you plug into upcoming national work while applying strategies within your own community. By this point, you’ll be ready to move forward with real impact.

    Why This Matters Now

    Democracy won’t protect itself. While things may feel overwhelming, we have power when we act together. That’s why trainings like this matter. They offer us the structure and confidence to build something stronger than fear—right where we live.

    You don’t need prior experience. You just need the willingness to show up and take that first step. And now is the time.

    Let’s rise together—for truth, for justice, and for the future we’re determined to create. Let’s build something stronger than fear and hate – let’s take real action.

    In solidarity,
    Judy
    Founder, Rescue Our Democracy

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