by Serwan Zangana
In the wake of the political activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination, America has entered another era of terror that not only caused devastation for his family, but also became a sad moment for those who believe in democracy and the freedom of speech. Americans have witnessed so many heinous acts and barbaric events that their memories are still surrendered by such acts and events and become nightmares. And perhaps, these unpleasant memories developed to post traumatic stress disorder.
Americans have agonized, suffered, and struggled to achieve equal rights and freedom of speech as all Americans are entitled to the First Amendment. Obviously, the U.S history has been loaded with calamity, such as slavery, Civil war, and the assassinations of leaders and politicians. Unfortunately, the bigotry and hate that lead to violence are still covering the American society.
It is an obligation of all Americans to protect the democratic society from falling in the hand of domestic extremism that generates ideological discrimination and hate. Understanding and respecting American rights and freedom of each individual in society are the key to continuing democracy, and hence, rejecting every form of violence.
The power of words can definitely change the society and shift the country’s direction, therefore, those who fear such a power are not able to accept the logic of a modern democratic society, and hence, violence becomes their tools to respond. Apparently, American society is not immune from extremism as radicalized groups and individuals have always caused devastation for Americans.
However, this argument is not about Kirk per se as much as about every American who practiced his or her freedom of speech and struggled for a human cause peacefully, has fallen victim to assassination. The assassinations of the politicians and the civil rights leaders will always remain as a dark spot on American history.
Extremism is not limited to the right or left wing, Democrats or Republican as in fact the human brain under a certain situation and in a specific environment is susceptible to be radicalized. It is unlike what President Trump said as he commented on political violence, “The problem is on the left. It’s not on the right.” In fact, Political violence in the U.S has been carried out by both left and right extremism. The radicals in the U.S are posing major threats to the freedom of speech that is a part of the Constitution.
However, the social media in this modern era has an enormous impact on today’s society and people’s reaction, thus, it can be detrimental to rely on one source in establishing a judgment and take a position on one side of the isle without understating the other side. Furthermore, the political community can lay a smooth path through positive rhetoric or building a rugged route to divide the public on every issue in the nation.
Regardless of their political Party’s affiliation, assassination of the political activists or office holders is a national crisis. And people indeed observe the politicians’ reactions and opinions on such a crisis, which will reflect on the public’s reaction. However, the members of the political community have commented on Kirk’s assassination and expressed their opinions.
While some Republicans and Democrats traded recriminations, the prominent politicians pointed at the main issue that is political violence. “Let me be clear: Political violence has no place in America. I condemn this act, and we all must work together to ensure this does not lead to more violence.” Former Vice President Kamala Harris (D) said.
Furthermore, Senate Majority leader John Thune (R) said, “…no matter how vehement our disagreement with them, is a human being and a fellow American deserving of respect and protection.”
All in all, political violence is a complete rejection of democracy and a destruction of American diversity.
