America is currently experiencing what scholars describe as competitive authoritarianism, which means we are at risk of losing our democratic republic. Research shows that 92% of countries in this situation that relied on elections only to preserve democracy ended up with an authoritarian government. But over half of the countries that added Civil Resistance retained a democratic government. Civil Resistance transcends politics and is a non-partisan movement to protect the government envisioned in our Constitution.
Widespread sustained protests that include a broad cross section of Americans are necessary but not sufficient as an effective Civil Resistance. Additional tactics are needed. These include pressure such as boycotts and outreach activities designed to recruit those who are neutral to join the Resistance. The RESIST Network will contribute to the resistance movement in Alachua County by encouraging pro-democracy activities such as boycotts and buycotts, supporting those targeted by the regime, and working against voter suppression and anti-science policies.
We send one or two messages (emails) monthly that suggest pro-democracy activities. We encourage you to forward them to your own contacts, other groups, and to use the information in your newsletters and/or posts on social media. We welcome all Alachua County residents to join us. You may contact us at theresistnetwork@gmail.com.