The Anti-47 Club is a community of Americans who find themselves opposing the direction our country is headed. We know that those that do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. Our mission is to promote the freedom and wellbeing of ALL people and condemn discrimination, fascism, and intolerance. In order to join our ranks there are a few things that must be acknowledged and adhered to.
1) We do not promote political violence and to do so undermines the democracy for which we are fighting to maintain. Violent rhetoric is not tolerated or promoted, and by using such language we sink to the levels of our enemy. We promote free speech, but not hate speech.
2) We believe that ALL PEOPLE are created EQUAL. This is not "Animal Farm" and we do not consider anyone to be more equal than others. White, Black, Brown, Christian, Muslim, Atheist, Straight, Gay, Bi, Male, Female, Trans, Republican, Democrat, Independent, Rich, Middle Class, Poor, Doctorate, Bachelors, GED, City, Suburb, Town, North, South, East, West it doesn't matter. No matter where you come from, your socioeconomic status, the color of your skin, your political affiliation, your religion or any other characteristic you use to define yourself or others matters. The only thing that matters is that you are a human being and that you are alive. All other factors used to divide ourselves into categories do not matter when it comes to the ethical treatment of others. All human beings deserve freedom and respect.
3) We believe that human beings should have the right to live their lives in a manner they see fit. So long as the rights of one person does not infringe upon the rights of another, they should be able to pursue the lifestyle that they choose. All human beings should have the right to religious freedom no matter the religion. A line is crossed when one religion is forced upon others against their will. All people should have the right to their political ideologies, but the use of education as indoctrination is unacceptable. A major point of political division stems from one group attempting to force another group to abide by arbitrary rules they consider to be right. Just because one person does not wish to live their life a certain way does not give them the right to create laws barring others from doing so. One person not understanding another's motivations for a lifestyle choice does not give them the right to harass and harm that person. Our differences are what make us human beings and forced assimilation and discrimination are not congruent with the values of a free country.
4) We believe that all human beings should conduct themselves in a courteous and dignified manner. The use of slurs and hate speech used to attack political opponents in modern politics is unprofessional and embarrassing. If a person being elected to the highest political office in the country acts this way it sends a negative message to everyone watching. Children who see this think that it is acceptable to act in a deplorable manner and treat others poorly. The average person is no longer willing to engage in constructive conversations and healthy debate. Foreign entities lose our respect and we become a laughing stock of the world. Worse even is that others have now seen a playbook they might use to rise to power in our country and abroad diminishing the legitimacy of democracy. Our actions politically influence the world stage and can be seen affecting our local communities. It is up to us to conduct ourselves as a positive example for what the world could be.
5) We will never give up and never surrender. We are human beings that hold value and importance in this world. For the sake of the current and all future generations we must strive to be the best versions of ourselves. When you feel lost and alone know that we are here for you. We feel your pain and fear. We feel your hopelessness and loss. We also share your sentiment for dignity, respect, and freedom. You are not alone. It is up to us to be vocal and let others know that we do not accept the current state of things. If we do not, then we will be drowned out by all of the noise around us. Stand up, speak out loud, and do not lot others intimidate or silence your voice. Your voice matters. YOU MATTER.