A Call for Genuine Unity

An Incarnation of Defiance

In the lens of the still camera, the horror of the attack was translated into embodiments of authority, defiance and near martyrdom.

The American flag billowing behind Mr. Trump’s bloodied face in some of the photos may superficially recall a Romantic tradition of bloodied national heroes, real or allegorical. A reverse image bot without much horse power could easily match them to Eugène Delacroix’s “Liberty Leading the People” (1830), in which a woman embodying France raises a flag in her right arm, or John Singleton Copley’s “Death of Major Peirson” (1782—84), a history painting of a victorious general dying beneath the British flag. The triangular formation of Secret Service agents seems to have put quite a few people in mind of the photo of the flag being raised at Iwo Jima.

But as a moral matter, I have always bridled against the temptation to treat images of suffering (two people are dead, and Mr. Trump and two others are injured) as objects of aesthetic judgment.

-Jason Farago, a critic at large for The Times, writes about art and culture in the U.S. and abroad.

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The Transformative Experience of Governor Wallace: A Call for Genuine Unity

The story of Alabama Governor George Wallace serves as a profound example of personal transformation and the complexities surrounding political violence and its aftermath. Wallace, a staunch white supremacist, experienced a radical change in his beliefs following a life-altering incident. When he was shot during an assassination attempt, he didn’t respond with defiance; instead, the experience led him to renounce his previous ideology. This narrative offers important lessons about the consequences of violence, the potential for change, and the need for genuine unity in addressing societal issues.

The Transformation of George Wallace

George Wallace’s political career was marked by his staunch support for segregation and white supremacy. He became a symbol of resistance to the Civil Rights Movement, famously proclaiming, “Segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever.” However, his outlook changed dramatically after he was shot and paralyzed in 1972. The near-death experience prompted Wallace to reflect deeply on his beliefs and actions. In the years that followed, he publicly apologized for his past behavior and sought reconciliation with those he had wronged.

Wallace’s transformation illustrates the potential for individuals to change, even when their previous actions have caused significant harm. His journey from a symbol of hate to a figure seeking redemption provides a powerful message about the human capacity for growth and the importance of empathy and understanding.

The Dangers of Political Violence

While Wallace’s story highlights personal transformation, it also underscores the dangers of political violence. Acts of violence, such as the assassination attempt on Wallace, the January 6 Capitol riots, and the July 13 assassination attempt on Trump, are unequivocally condemned. Political violence undermines democratic principles, sows fear, and perpetuates cycles of hatred and retaliation. It is crucial to promote peaceful and constructive methods for addressing grievances and effecting change.

However, it is equally important to guard against the misuse of such violent events for manipulative political purposes. Politicians and interest groups may exploit snapshots of these events to further their agendas, sowing divisiveness and fostering an “us versus them” (FIGHT!) mentality. Such tactics only deepen societal rifts and hinder meaningful dialogue and reconciliation.

The Call for Genuine Unity

In light of these challenges, there is an urgent need for genuine unity. Calls for unity should not be superficial or serve as a façade for ulterior motives. True unity requires a commitment to understanding and addressing the root causes of division, inequality, and injustice. It involves creating spaces for open dialogue, where diverse perspectives can be heard and respected, where immigrants do not “poison the blood” of a country, where no bloodshed is advocated by the loser of an election, and threats of violence against the “fake news media” are eradicated in the political discourse of a democratic society.

Unity under false pretenses, such as using the notion of peace to disarm and overpower adversaries, is counterproductive. It is akin to waving a white flag with the intention of launching a surprise attack. Such deceptive tactics erode trust and perpetuate conflict. Instead, we must strive for authentic reconciliation, where all parties come together in good faith to work towards common goals.

Avoiding the Trap of Manipulation

To avoid falling into the trap of manipulation, it is essential to critically assess the narratives presented by political leaders and media. We must be vigilant against attempts to exploit tragedies for partisan gain and remain focused on fostering genuine understanding and collaboration. This involves questioning simplistic portrayals of complex events and seeking out diverse sources of information.

By prioritizing empathy, compassion, and mutual respect, we can build a society that values peaceful coexistence and collective progress. This approach requires acknowledging past wrongs, as Wallace did, and committing to a future where differences are addressed through dialogue rather than violence.

Conclusion

The story of Governor George Wallace’s transformation offers valuable insights into the potential for personal change and the importance of condemning political violence. It also highlights the dangers of manipulative tactics that exploit violent events for partisan purposes. Genuine unity, grounded in empathy and respect, is essential for addressing societal divisions and building a more just and harmonious world. By remaining vigilant against deception and fostering open dialogue, we can work together to create a future where all individuals are valued and included.

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Values to Live By

• A Love of Truth—essential for a just, inclusive and progressive society;
• A Sense of Justice—recognition of the rights and needs, of all.
• Spirit of Cooperation—based on active goodwill and the principle of right human relationships;
• A Sense of Personal Responsibility—for group, community and national affairs;
• Serving the Common Good—through the sacrifice of selfishness. Only what is good for all is good for each one.

These are spiritual values, inspiring the conscience and the consciousness of those who serve to create a better way of life.

Source: https://www.lucistrust.org/e_pamphlets/values_live_by2

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