You can’t wake a person who is pretending to sleep.

-Navajo Proverb

I also don’t usually use this blog for statements on public affairs.

But today is different.

Today, I believe that too many of us are pretending to sleep. Pretending that what’s going on in our country has no far-reaching effects. Pretending that since this is America, we can’t possibly lose the rights we fought for in 1776, in 1863, in 1876, in 1965, and in 1973.

Pretending that since what’s being done is done in the name of patriotism and security, it’s all OK. Because we need to be patriotic, right? We need to be secure, right? And that’s what matters most of all… right?

And I find it heartbreakingly appropriate that this particular quote comes from Native Americans.

I’m not trying to make anyone change their minds; I know I can’t persuade anyone to believe something they don’t accept. But I am asking if you would just take a close, honest look at what’s happening right now. Here and all over the world.

See if you think the ends justify the means.