by Peter Molenaar
The basic facts:
The FBI raided five homes and an anti-war office on September 24, 2010. Federal grand jury subpoenas were handed to nine local activists. The activists include eight women and one man ranging in age from 29 to 71. Four are parents of children ranging in age from 18 months to 6 years of age. One is a great-grandmother. Six are members of labor unions. All have been involved in international solidarity and peace work for many years. They are friends and neighbors to each and every one of us.
So, now they all face jail time for refusing the initial subpoena. Conceivably, the period of incarceration might be extended “indefinitely” in the event the grand jury reconvenes with this in mind. Representative Clark and Senator Berglin have received praise for resolving against this intrusion.
Why is this happening?
Some have pointed out that the FBI was budgeted additional funds subsequent to the 9-11 event. Evidently, having run short of useful work to do, they have expanded their reach to include upstanding people.
But what deeper underlying reason might there be?
The reality is this: the infrastructure which projects USA imperial power has begun to crumble. Currently, we maintain some 1000 military bases in other countries at a cost of about $102 billion a year. (One is reminded of the bases in Saudi Arabia which in large measure provoked the 9”“11 attack.) So, given the federal deficit, the material basis of imperialism is recognizably “unsustainable” and is considered to be in a state of “terminal decline”.
But what?
The imperialists (those folks who ship our jobs off to low wage counties) are unwilling to give up. This is why they are attacking government programs which serve the people, including social security. Now let”'s make the connection”¦This is why they are attacking the anti-imperialist voices arising from within our community.
These are the basic facts.
