How to respond to the violent attack at Trump’s rally.
By Ezra Levin, Indivisible Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director
The violent attack at Trump’s rally today — like any politically motivated violent attack — is morally abhorrent at all levels. At an individual level, it is wrong. At a societal level, it shakes the foundations of our democratic system that depends on voting, not violence, to settle disputes. There is simply no place for political violence in a democracy.
In this chaotic moment, I have three recommendations for local Indivisible leaders:
- Condemn political violence in no uncertain terms. This is not a time for “but…” Political violence is wrong and it’s important to say so. You do not need a long essay — make it short and to the point.
- Beware of conspiracy theories. Social media, as expected, is awash with misinformation right now. Let me say this: If Biden had been targeted in a similar attack, and rightwingers raised questions about its legitimacy, believability, or who was really to blame, we would rightfully criticize them as conspiracy theorists. Avoid being influenced by or spreading misinformation in this moment — it does nobody any good.
- Wait for more information. We know very little right now other than that Trump was injured and at least one bystander was killed. More information will come, and we will assess that information once it is verified and made public.
Indivisible is a pro-democracy movement with a foundational belief in the power of nonviolent political action. Our own movement includes leaders who’ve faced political violence, and in a moment like this, we know that many will fear reprisals or threats to their own security. We stand united against a cycle of political violence in this country. Peaceful organizing is the way to protect our democracy. That is how we will win.
