In the spring, our Immigration Solidarity & Action (IS&A) team hosted a five-week study of On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder. The book warns of the dangers we face today. Snyder urges readers to recognize and resist signs of hate, and to ensure symbols of loyalty are inclusive of all fellow citizens.
Recently, I noticed a disturbing flag across the street—an alarming symbol of our times. Nearby, an American flag flew, and its proximity felt unsettling. Through our IS&A work, we’ve come to understand the importance of reclaiming national symbols like the American flag, which has often been co-opted by the extreme right. Many now hesitate to display it for fear of mis-association.
Our mission calls us to nurture spirit and inspire action. In that spirit, the IS&A team invites members to take visible action.
If you live in a home, place a positive sign outside—messages like “Hate Has No Home Here” or “Resist Fascism.” Avoid offensive language; we rise above that. If you’re in an apartment, post the sign in a street-facing window. Most importantly, display the American flag alongside it.
We propose starting this initiative on September 11, 2025—a powerful date—and keeping the display up as long as needed. If you’d like to commit, please sign up at the Social Justice table.
Elizabeth Martorell, Immigrant Solidarity & Action Team Organizer