
Target: General Steven Nordhaus, Chief of National Guard Bureau
Goal: Do not remain silent on politicization and unwarranted deployment of National Guard units.
Thousands of people took to the streets to protest corruption, brutality, economic turmoil, and autocratic rule. While the scenario may ring familiar for Americans, this particular dissention took place an ocean away in an African nation once touted as a bastion of democracy: Kenya. These mass demonstrations resulted in military and police interventions that led to the deaths of dozens of people and the injuries of many more. As similar protests ramp up in the United States, Americans must learn from this recent history.
Crackdowns on dissention have already begun to reach concerning levels in America. Individuals are being punished with the loss of their jobs, their educational opportunities, and even their abilities to remain in the country simply because they spoke out. Massive organized and peaceful nationwide demonstrations – known as “No Kings” protests – were reframed by some elected representatives as “Hate America” rallies. And the president, who has been accused himself of instigating violent protests in Washington, DC following his 2020 election defeat (and who later pardoned convicted individuals), has sent federal troops to preside over largely peaceful protests. He recently granted “full authority” to law enforcement officers to restrain protesters by “whatever means is necessary.”
Sign the petition below to compel a long-standing military leader to resist the weaponization of service members against Americans exercising their First Amendment rights.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear General Nordhaus,
The National Guard is arguably the nation’s oldest organized militia. It stands as a first line of defense for America and an invaluable asset of aid during times of emergency. Now it is being turned against Americans who have committed the seemingly grievous crime of exercising the freedom of speech for which military members across the centuries have fought and died. Using guard members as a show of force and intimidation in U.S. cities and towns perverts the very mission of this esteemed organization. And threatening the use of deadly force – or “by whatever means is necessary,” in the words of the president – to quell protests invokes tragic and dangerous parallels all over the world.
Please utilize the respect and influence you have earned through years of service to condemn this dark turn in the legacy of America’s first responders.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Rhododendrites