By Peter Molenaar
Some definitions:
1.) A “proto-fascist” is one who sets the stage with scape-goating and the promotion of chauvinism.
2.) Fascism is the open faced terroristic dictatorship of the most reactionary, chauvinistic, imperialistic sector of the capitalist ruling class.
3.) A ”˜Popular Front”' is the strategic movement which unites elements from all social classes in defense of democracy.
With the above in mind, I was pleased to find the commentary from the Ingebretsen family in last month”'s issue of The Alley. In small part it reads:
“”¦Over the past 30 years, we have had the good fortune to see our community enriched beyond measure by the presence, dedication, and big hearts of our Latino and East African neighbors”¦Let”'s not forget to see the beauty and potential in one another.”
From the standpoint of the Popular Front, small business persons like the Ingebretsens are as important as a white worker who rejects racism. Stop by their shop for some Scandinavian sausage.
December 15, 2016”¦
I attended the annual Christmas buffet at the local iron foundry ”“ yes, Smith Foundry on E. 28th Street, the place where I spent most of the waking hours of my adult life. A survey of the electoral aftermath revealed emotions ranging from silent remorse to agitated disdain. However, some of the white workers voted for Trump. In fact, one asked me “Have you jumped on the Trump train yet?!”
Then, spotting two Teamster officials at the table, I approached to convey my findings. The vision of a giant multi-racial Labor-led demonstration in D.C. was broached. For starters:
SAY NO TO THE PRIVATIZATION OF OUR NATION”'S INFRASTRUCTURE, SAY YES TO SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE”¦
Sad but true, at this juncture, without a fight, those who voted in favor of white supremacy might later be drawn into an organized and full blown fascist movement. Reactionary capital”'s campaign to divide our people must be stopped. The Popular Front will embrace all who oppose the present course.
