How Did We Get Here?

Dark and difficult times lie ahead. Soon we must all face the choice between what is right and what is easy. - Albus Dumbledore

This can't be right. Right? We grew up in a time and place where there were clear distinctions between good and evil (or so we thought). Our movies and TV shows taught us that our America was on the side of freedom. Truth, Justice, and the American Way. We supported countries who sought to embrace the idea of freedom. 

Most importantly, we thought that if we worked hard and paid our dues we could become whatever we wanted to be: A doctor, lawyer, fireman, ballerina, even a president. 

So what happened? How did we get to a point where a felonious businessman game show host who is clearly indebted to corrupt dictators and oligarchs is given a second chance to be what was the leader of the free world? 

There are so many things we could point to, but the truth is that it's a combination of everything you can think of. And since we can't go back in time to change any of this, perhaps a better question is: 

What are we going to do about it? 

It's easy to get down. We've all been there, and we'll be there again. The branches of government that are supposed to keep each other in check have aligned and are pointing us all straight down the tubes. Autocracy is coming, and fascism is not far behind. WHAT DO WE DO? 

Although many of us don't have a platform with millions of viewers, we can all directly influence our own circles in which we live. This means: 

1) Finding your line in the sand

2) Draw it

3) Speak your truth (respectfully and calming if you want the other person to listen) 

4) Find ways to participate in the resistance (Hi!) 

5) Do the things that make you happy! 

This last one is maybe the most important. Art is destroyed in fascist regimes because it brings together communities and gives them hope. Don't give yours away. 

As for us, we started this site, and want to help spread the word that we will FIGHT for what America is supposed to be. And we want you to join us. With every sticker, patch, pin, shirt, or hat (those last three coming soon) we sell, we will donate 100% of the proceeds (ALL money after costs are covered) to non profits that are on the front lines protecting the people of this country. This includes (but isn't limited to): 

• American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
• Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)
• Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)

Do you know of a non profit we should include? Let us know! we'll research and if they meet our standards (meaning NOT a political party) we'll send them a check. 

In the meantime, take care of each other, and PLEASE share the work we're doing with the people you know. We can make a difference, and we will. 

- A Small Axe