#BeBraveDay -- Tom Sullivan [View all]

[erronis]

https://digbysblog.net/2025/08/15/bebraveday/

“The first follower is what transforms a lone nut into a leader.”

https://www.visibilitybrigade.com/

While holding a sign downtown with Vets For Peace on Tuesday, I met a 20-year-old mechanical engineering student interning for the summer from Michigan. He is barely getting by here because he’s paying $1,500 a month for a studio apartment. His prospects for the future dwindling, but he’s pressing on nonetheless. It sucks. So this is the 3×2 sign I prepped for the overpass protest the Visibility Brigade called for today at drive time. (I’m taking my cue on readability from Patrick Randall, the Freeway Blogger. He’s still out there.)



Let’s review:

Clicktivism and casual criticism in the face of fascism is not enough. Direct action is a necessity. If it pisses off some it will inspire others. We must build a community of opposition to the authoritarian overthrow of the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law. For many, they will need their neighbors’ permission to take their first baby steps. Deeper commitment comes later. That’s the ladder of engagement.

I’m done calling these streetcorner displays protests. Protesting sounds too much like work. What they are is pop-up parties. (I bring a Bluetooth speaker and play a curated song list.) We want others to join. That’s how you build a movement. And God knows we need one.

. . .

Remember: “The first follower is what transforms a lone nut into a leader.”

Today is a good day to be that lone nut. Maybe you’ll find you aren’t alone.