American Rhetoric
In Politics
In recent years, the role of rhetoric in American politics has been a topic of intense debate. The use of language by political figures can shape public opinion, influence policy discussions, and set the tone for the national discourse. One figure who has been at the center of this conversation is Donald Trump, whose rhetoric has often been characterized as polarizing and, at times, incendiary.
One particularly contentious aspect of Trump's rhetoric is his statements regarding immigrants. The use of language that frames immigrants as "poisoning the blood of the country" has drawn criticism for its divisive nature. Such expressions not only contribute to a hostile environment but also undermine the principles of inclusivity and diversity that many believe are fundamental to the American identity.
Critics argue that this type of language perpetuates harmful stereotypes and fosters an "us versus them" mentality. Instead of encouraging a nuanced discussion on immigration policies, these statements can lead to the demonization of entire groups of people based on their origin. This approach not only hinders the development of effective and fair immigration policies but also risks fostering prejudice and discrimination within society.
Furthermore, the impact of such rhetoric extends beyond policy discussions. It influences public perception and can contribute to a toxic political climate. The use of divisive language tends to polarize citizens, making it challenging to find common ground and engage in meaningful dialogue. This polarization can be detrimental to the democratic process, hindering the ability to address critical issues through collaborative efforts.
It is essential to recognize the power of words, especially when spoken by those in positions of influence. Political leaders have a responsibility to promote unity and understanding rather than sowing seeds of division. Constructive dialogue that focuses on the nuances of complex issues can lead to better-informed citizens and more effective governance.
While critics argue that Trump's rhetoric has been a negative force in American politics, supporters often contend that it represents a break from traditional, politically correct communication. They believe that his direct and unfiltered style resonates with a significant portion of the population who feel unheard by the political establishment.
Despite differing opinions on Trump's rhetoric, the broader question remains: What kind of political discourse is conducive to a healthy democracy? Striking a balance between passionate expression and respectful dialogue is crucial for fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can coexist and contribute to the democratic process.
The impact of Donald Trump's rhetoric on American politics, particularly his statements regarding immigrants, cannot be understated. While some appreciate his unfiltered approach, others argue that it has contributed to a more divisive and polarized political landscape. Moving forward, the challenge lies in promoting discourse that respects differing opinions while fostering unity and understanding—a balance essential for the health of American democracy.
Immigration (Humanitarian Governments Organization): I’ve written extensively on this subject, but this is my abbreviated reply. There is no such thing as "illegals" or illegal immigrants, only undocumented immigrants. Our constitution affords people the right to come to the US seeking asylum from oppression, persecution, and death. Anyone one of us would do the same. We are a nation of immigrants that originated as explorers, settlers, trappers, visionaries - all seeking freedom, opportunity, and adventure; people who could merely settle and stake their claim until we made insensitive laws to make it difficult to seek sanctuary and gain citizenship. I consider earth as God’s footstool, that there should be no borders, that all humans should be able to roam the earth, be free, and live wherever they please. Borders further the concept of “divide and conquer” pushed by white supremacists and capitalism. Our own country exists because it was colonized and stolen by white people who eventually made insane policies and procedures to enhance white supremacy. Our southern border for example has a natural river that became an arbitrary line to keep people from migrating. Native Americans are the only people who can legitimately claim this land as the original inhabitants, and we abused them terribly. Everyone except the Native American is a descendant of an immigrant and should have more sympathy towards immigrants. Immigration is NOT a one nation problem: it is a global problem that requires global solutions. After WWII, democracies grew, and we should have used that momentum to establish a universal, humanitarian organization (UHO) that would recruit humanitarian governments and create a humanitarian world order to include the eradication of brutal dictatorships, autocracies, and regimes. UHO membership that requires participating nations to offer and coordinate their military forces to protect the global population from persecution, torture, and death and to promote peace and prosperity globally. There are a multitude of strategic ways for this to be accomplished, including that wealthier, humanitarian nations could embrace/host impoverished or brutalized nations, preserving their dignity, resources, and culture. This would lessen the need for migration. This could be accomplished in a variety of ways including recruitment by populous vote in the impoverished or brutalized nation; by a lottery system held within the (UHO), by policies and procedures set forth by participating nations. Memberships should also require that participating nations only do business with other participating nations and agree not to do business with any nation that violates human rights. With such a system, no one nation is seen as a “global police force,” or engaging in "nation building" but as a collection of humanitarian governments promoting global peace, prosperity, and economic and political stability. Think of the enormous economic and social opportunities and benefits that could be afforded by this type of systematic cooperation. It is insane that in the 21st century we are still dealing with terrorism, persecution, torture, and genocide. I think we have an ethical and moral obligation to promote this endeavor. All nations should cease thinking only of their own nation and encapsulate the broader, global picture: that by working together the peace and prosperity of participating nations would continue to grow exponentially and guarantee generations of peace and prosperity. Everyone should be mindful that they could have been born in any body, to any family, in any part of the world, into any circumstance and thus refrain from thoughts of entitlement because they were born in a particular country or born into wealth or born into a country of opportunities allowing themselves to look down on others. . For Christians, just remember that the Holy Family (Jesus, Mary, and Joseph) had to flee to Egypt to avoid Herod's wrath and threat of death. Let's be grateful for our heritage, our freedoms, and our protections in the US. Let's pray that the humanitarian nations work together to expeditiously solve the global immigration crisis. I've been working for global peace and prosperity since I was in high school and will continue to do so as long as I am able.
Dear Nick, a unique Christmas message. I'll write my own views about immigration as soon as I get a spare moment, but wanted you to see this message.
We’ve all heard the story. Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem to be counted in the census. Along the way, Mary goes into labor.
They try to check into a local hotel but there are no rooms available (and they don’t have money to pay in the first place). They are led to an animal stable where Jesus is born with cows lowing and donkeys kicking.
There are shepherds not far from them in the countryside who are visited by messengers, told not to be afraid as they learn there’s a new ruler in town. And there are wise men, astrologists, who, although sent to spy on Jesus by Herod, lavish him with gifts and then go home by another way rather than report this poor Jewish baby born under occupation to the authorities.
In this story, Jesus is one of the lucky ones. He survives these events. We hear in Matthew’s Gospel that in an attempt to hold on to power, after losing his grasp on Jesus, Herod orders the killing of thousands of babies. There is weeping for the children, God's children, who are no more.
Even just reading between the lines, there’s a lot going on in this story. Forced migration, teenage pregnancy, homelessness, political violence, and contested authority. Rather than comfort and celebration of Christmas carols and candle lighting, the themes in the story are fear, vulnerability, loss and lack.
Perhaps this is what is so powerful about the Christmas story (and what the Christmas story even is). It's probably also why we can miss its revolutionary message when things are calm and easy.
The savior of the world and prince of peace is not who owns the guns, who controls the military or legislates violence.
The wonderful counselor and almighty God is not the one with wealth and power who remains content with babies born in squalor or obsessed with controlling the bodies and movement of families.
Instead the child who is given is a homeless, undocumented baby, born in the rubble of an empire gone mad on war, greed and control. This child is set apart to turn the world around and realize justice.
Indeed, the promise of Jesus’s birth is that hope comes from the bottom, that every valley will be filled. From the dark places of occupation, dispossession, and violence is the message that another way is possible. And that way of justice, peace and community prosperity is what God desires for the world (even when we fall short).
This is our Christmas story. And it’s not a cozy one. It’s dirty (literally) and desperate. All of the protagonists in the story are scared, subjugated and at risk. It doesn’t even have a happy ending.
It’s the story of how movements are born, where leaders emerge, and the determination, courage and faith we must have if we are to be faithful to God’s demand for justice and peace, shalom, and salaam.
I wish you a Christmas filled with impatience with the way things are, hope that justice and peace are possible, and the courage to make a difference.
Peace, love and joy,
Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis