A weekly reflection on current issues and our democratic experience utilizing my background in Holocaust and genocide history, public education, and travel. To deepen discussion and reflection to advance democratic norms and progress. New posts each Monday morning. Respectful discussion helps us build a better Republic, I encourage your thoughts, reactions, and reflections. "Facing the past with courage, resilience, and hope."  © My Turn  

April 6, 2026: Foundations of Hope: Traditions Against Tyranny
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How Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religious traditions and the U.S, Constitution are designed to resist tyranny.

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March 23, 2026: Democratic Opportunities: Freedom From Fear
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As we witness antidemocratic forces we must embrace nonviolent resistance that rejects hate and division. What can FDR's generation teach us about freedom from fear?

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March 16, 2026:                    Immigrant Eyes: Rejecting Fear by Finding My Irish Roots
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On St, Patrick's Day I think about how immigrants found freedom and helped to build the US and the hate that tried to target them.

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March 9, 2026:   Contempt For Our Republic: Not How Americans Go to War
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How President Trump and Secretary Hegseth betray American values in their rush to war without consent.

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February 16, 2026:     The Power of Goodness:                               Le Chambon and Minneapolis
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Reflecting on the power of goodness in Le Chambon during World War II and thinking ab out Minneapolis' resistance to ICE.

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February 9, 2026: Echoes of Nazi Elections
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How the Nazis manipulated the democratic system to get power. What warning signs do we hear?

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February 2, 2026:    What are we talking about?
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Can we compare ICE activities to the Brownshirts? Can we compare what is happening in the US to Nazi Germany?

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January 26, 2026:          A Betrayal of American Ideals by an American President
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President Trump's betrayal of the international order and American ideals has made the US a pariah nation and opened the potential for a disastrous future.

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January 12, 2026: Hoping For Beloved Community
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Martin Luther King Day made me think about creating beloved communities -especially now. How can we slow things down, listen to each other, go beyond labels, to build resilience?

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January 5, 2026:     What is Fascism?
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December 22, 2025: Pottersville or Bedford Falls?
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Examining Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life". Do we wish to live in Pottersville or Bedford Falls? How can we be the light of the season?

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