Review: Giving Up Is Unforgivable: A Manual for Keeping a Democracy

Giving Up Is Unforgivable: A Manual for Keeping a Democracy by Joyce Vance
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I follow JV on her Substack.  After being a free member for a handful of months, I have recently become a paid member since I read everything she puts out.

This is timely.  As a reminder, elections have consequences.  This is a good history refresher, an explainer for those that could use it.  The Presidency of the United States has checks on it.  When used.  Article 1- Congress; they've pretty much let this orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole do whatever the fuck he wants.  There (finally) has been a little (emphasis on little) push-back this week, so we shall see.  Article 3; the Courts; they've (for the most part) have been doing there job and holding the orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole accountable (as much as they can anyway).  Then there is the Press; the Mainstream Media has been doing a little bit, but not nearly enough of what they should.  Independent Media continues to do a fantastic job.  I will edit to say this is my opinion; my MAGA parents would strongly disagree with that statement.  Hell, this review (my dad wants me deported.  Where?  Not sure.  I was born here, so was he, so where my grandparents, etc).  

The Rule of Law in short means that no one is above the law.  This is becoming questionable when one looks at all the pardons the orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole has given out.  White collar crimes (Paul Walczak, George Santos, this list is massive), drug crimes (Juan Orlando Hernandez), insurrection (when he pardoned the Jan 6 participants).  With the Supreme Court ruling in 2024 (Trump vs the United States) going the orange, sexist, racist, demented asshole immunity for "official acts," I honestly do not know there the Rule of Law stands anymore.  

JV also discusses how controlling the narrative is important.  With the "right" snapshot, they grow and take on a life of their own.  

In short, be active in your community.  Participate when you can.  Make phone calls, write postcards, participate in boycotts (for example Home Depot), contact your elected officials, participate in the next No Kings protest.  

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