Dear Truth Movement supporters,
By now you are probably aware of the dwindling and leaderless nature of the Truth Movement, which was plainly exposed on and around the sixth anniversary of September 11th, only a few days ago. A significant fraction of former members have left the Truth Movement, many recently, perhaps because of this problem or disillusionment with the dubious foundation, fractious infighting, or sometimes disrespectful conduct of a few within the Movement. Another significant fraction of you remain, but have expressed reasonable doubts and concerns about the Movement's future and intended direction. Without dwelling on the causes or laying blame anywhere, I'd like to offer a polite suggestion, one that focuses solely on the positive aspects of your efforts.
Over the last two years I have had conversations with many of you, most of an Internet-enabled nature but a few in real life. I've spoken with those of you from virtually every background, from pre-teenage idealists to your foremost authors and lecturers. I will not dwell on the disagreements themselves. Instead, let me remark that I have found, for the majority of those in the Truth Movement, many admirable qualities:
Let me give as an example Mr. John Feal, a charity organizer in New York sympathetic to the Truth Movement. While his opinions regarding Sept. 11th are speculative at best and his organization could stand more professionalism, I am awe-struck by his personal commitment and his personal sacrifices. We should help such individuals rather than oppose them, and criticize only in a constructive manner, regardless of how we feel about their politics or approach.
Therefore, let me make the following suggestion to those remaining in the Truth Movement: Apply yourselves to other, worthier humanitarian causes.
I have argued, for the past two years, that there is no compelling evidence for United States Government sponsorship or involvement in September 11th. This does not mean that the Government is perfect, or that there are no deep and troubling problems facing us as a society. There are many, many causes that warrant activism. Unlike the roots of the Truth Movement, these causes serve to address problems that are unarguably real and significant, and demand attention. Activism is enshrined in the United States Constitution for a reason, and that is because activism is patriotic, and fosters a healthy society.
I present here a brief list of organizations that you, as members or former members of the Truth Movement, should consider supporting with your time and energy. This list is only the barest beginning of the myriad organizations that could benefit from your help:
As the saying goes, "Think Globally, Act Locally." You will probably find that a more local cause, perhaps aligned with one of these large organizations, is the best way to start. It is difficult for one to personally confront President Bush about the treatement of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, but it is possible to personally address, peacefully protest, and bring about change in case of human rights abuses in your hometown. The larger, international organizations can help you find these causes as well. You will also find a groundswell of activism at local universities and colleges. Local action leads to personal satisfaction, but also to global change.
I offer this suggestion in friendship. You do not have to agree with my view of September 11th, my politics, or my background -- the choice is entirely up to you, and you may give whatever you feel you can. I urge you all to make a difference, and to seize the day.
Sincerely,
Ryan Mackey
By now you are probably aware of the dwindling and leaderless nature of the Truth Movement, which was plainly exposed on and around the sixth anniversary of September 11th, only a few days ago. A significant fraction of former members have left the Truth Movement, many recently, perhaps because of this problem or disillusionment with the dubious foundation, fractious infighting, or sometimes disrespectful conduct of a few within the Movement. Another significant fraction of you remain, but have expressed reasonable doubts and concerns about the Movement's future and intended direction. Without dwelling on the causes or laying blame anywhere, I'd like to offer a polite suggestion, one that focuses solely on the positive aspects of your efforts.
Over the last two years I have had conversations with many of you, most of an Internet-enabled nature but a few in real life. I've spoken with those of you from virtually every background, from pre-teenage idealists to your foremost authors and lecturers. I will not dwell on the disagreements themselves. Instead, let me remark that I have found, for the majority of those in the Truth Movement, many admirable qualities:
Concern for Humanity: Most of you show a genuine concern for civilization at large and your fellow Americans, a truly altruistic viewpoint. As there are numerous avenues to make a real difference, there are plenty of opportunities to apply this to good purpose.
Energy and Courage: Quite a few of you have put considerable and sustained effort into promoting your views, and express a desire to act rather than merely speak on the issues. Given the almost overwhelming opposition and derision meted out by the public at large, it is clear that these desires will not easily be extinguished, but merely require direction.
Desire for Organization: There is a natural tendency towards teamwork and more effective activism, as demonstrated by the spontaneous appearance of numerous Truth Movement clubs and splinter groups. Such teamwork is essential for effective activism, if difficult to harness.
Energy and Courage: Quite a few of you have put considerable and sustained effort into promoting your views, and express a desire to act rather than merely speak on the issues. Given the almost overwhelming opposition and derision meted out by the public at large, it is clear that these desires will not easily be extinguished, but merely require direction.
Desire for Organization: There is a natural tendency towards teamwork and more effective activism, as demonstrated by the spontaneous appearance of numerous Truth Movement clubs and splinter groups. Such teamwork is essential for effective activism, if difficult to harness.
Let me give as an example Mr. John Feal, a charity organizer in New York sympathetic to the Truth Movement. While his opinions regarding Sept. 11th are speculative at best and his organization could stand more professionalism, I am awe-struck by his personal commitment and his personal sacrifices. We should help such individuals rather than oppose them, and criticize only in a constructive manner, regardless of how we feel about their politics or approach.
Therefore, let me make the following suggestion to those remaining in the Truth Movement: Apply yourselves to other, worthier humanitarian causes.
I have argued, for the past two years, that there is no compelling evidence for United States Government sponsorship or involvement in September 11th. This does not mean that the Government is perfect, or that there are no deep and troubling problems facing us as a society. There are many, many causes that warrant activism. Unlike the roots of the Truth Movement, these causes serve to address problems that are unarguably real and significant, and demand attention. Activism is enshrined in the United States Constitution for a reason, and that is because activism is patriotic, and fosters a healthy society.
I present here a brief list of organizations that you, as members or former members of the Truth Movement, should consider supporting with your time and energy. This list is only the barest beginning of the myriad organizations that could benefit from your help:
- Greenpeace
- Amnesty International
- United States Peace Corps
- Habitat for Humanity
- Reclaim The Streets
- The Sierra Club
- MoveOn
- Bill of Rights Defense Committee
- Freedom to Marry
As the saying goes, "Think Globally, Act Locally." You will probably find that a more local cause, perhaps aligned with one of these large organizations, is the best way to start. It is difficult for one to personally confront President Bush about the treatement of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, but it is possible to personally address, peacefully protest, and bring about change in case of human rights abuses in your hometown. The larger, international organizations can help you find these causes as well. You will also find a groundswell of activism at local universities and colleges. Local action leads to personal satisfaction, but also to global change.
I offer this suggestion in friendship. You do not have to agree with my view of September 11th, my politics, or my background -- the choice is entirely up to you, and you may give whatever you feel you can. I urge you all to make a difference, and to seize the day.
Sincerely,
Ryan Mackey
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