The last few weeks have given rise to a rare phenomenon in modern-day America: bipartisan agreement. Across party lines, our nation’s leaders have joined hands to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
As all eyes turn to the East, We The People asserts that the Russian government represents everything America stands against1. And to prevent similar threats to our democracy from taking root at home, we must rally around our Constitutional freedoms.
Consider the recent political climate in Russia. We can start with the election system— in last year’s Parliamentary election, discontent with Putin’s United Russia party was surging. In response, Putin banned well-known members of the opposition from running for office.
Meanwhile, videos of ballot stuffing and other instances of fraud went viral. In the end, to the surprise of no one and the frustration of many, the United Russia party held its supermajority.
Further strengthening Putin’s dictatorial grasp on the country, Russian state media outlets are used to push the narrative of the government. Independent media outlets are being shut down.
And perhaps worst of all, the government has seized assets from, arrested, and otherwise silenced all those who dare to speak out.
So, what does all of this have to do with democracy in the United States?
For starters, Russia serves as an excellent example of why we need to double down on election security. As claims of election fraud surface from both sides of the political spectrum and calls for banning certain candidates from running for office are growing louder here at home, it is critical that we work to preserve free and fair elections. (We The People recently wrote about why increasing election security is not voter suppression — you can read that article here.)
But even more importantly, our Constitution protects us from the crimes we are watching the Russian government commit against their people and beyond. From the right to free speech to the freedom to assemble, the American people are secure in our liberty so long as the Constitution is secure.
And if you’ve ever doubted our second amendment, consider the Ukrainian civilians now taking up arms to defend their nation. In the face of a hostile invasion, the Ukrainian Parliament stepped back from decades of harsh gun control laws and recognized the right to bear arms (for a whole thirty days!)
Now passing out guns like candy to civilians who have never owned, used, and perhaps even seen one, Ukraine’s previous gun control policies have no doubt harmed civilian efforts to fight back against the Russians.
Imagine, for a moment, if the United States was put into this situation.
Americans are in agreement that the Russia-Ukraine conflict is abhorrent and must be stopped. Now, it’s time Americans agree that we need to defend freedom at home as well.
It is more important now than ever before that we work together to defend our Constitution and safeguard our freedoms. If you want to help protect democracy in the United States, please donate today.
1We would like to emphasize that our beef is with the Russian government, and not the Russian people— who have largely done nothing wrong and have, in fact, spoken out against Putin’s actions. They are not to blame. Especially not Russian authors who died over a hundred years before this conflict began.