As I have thought about this further, one question that comes to mind is why is our state government even spending one dime on supposed "domestic extremism and mass violence"?What data are there to support this has become a concern in WA? By whose definition do we define "domestic extremism"?
We share your concerns, Alison. Great questions. The task force has decided not to define "domestic extremism" for now. Isn't that crazy? The data they cite include decades-old references to white supremacist group activity and various isolated criminal incidents here in Washington, which don't necessarily seem relevant in today's landscape. And we already have laws against violence.
Thanks for tracking these meetings. I don't think I could bear it. My main observation is that I see these people and organizations trying to build an industry (that pays them). PERIL shamelessly follows other narratives (see their Gendered Violence division!) to foment fear - just with loose connections between violence and misogyny. They found some memes and are now trying to build a consulting empire. A strange niche indeed. I wonder when they'll tie the next ACIP decisions to violence also.
It would be well for the task force to consider how quickly the tables can turn and ensure that their empowerment remains within the limits they would desire to impose upon their ideological opposites.
As I have thought about this further, one question that comes to mind is why is our state government even spending one dime on supposed "domestic extremism and mass violence"?What data are there to support this has become a concern in WA? By whose definition do we define "domestic extremism"?
We share your concerns, Alison. Great questions. The task force has decided not to define "domestic extremism" for now. Isn't that crazy? The data they cite include decades-old references to white supremacist group activity and various isolated criminal incidents here in Washington, which don't necessarily seem relevant in today's landscape. And we already have laws against violence.
Thanks for reading, Alison. It is truly chilling.
It is amazing to see the relentless push to re-frame free speech as radicalism. Very informative, thanks Lisa!
Thanks for tracking these meetings. I don't think I could bear it. My main observation is that I see these people and organizations trying to build an industry (that pays them). PERIL shamelessly follows other narratives (see their Gendered Violence division!) to foment fear - just with loose connections between violence and misogyny. They found some memes and are now trying to build a consulting empire. A strange niche indeed. I wonder when they'll tie the next ACIP decisions to violence also.
Great term: "consulting empire." There's lots of money to be made, much of it coming from our taxes without our consent.
It would be well for the task force to consider how quickly the tables can turn and ensure that their empowerment remains within the limits they would desire to impose upon their ideological opposites.
So true, Will. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts.