STOP WEAPONIZING “COUNTERTERRORISM” AGAINST PROTESTERS AND LGBTQ AMERICANS

I am outraged by the Trump administration’s new counterterrorism strategy targeting so-called “left-wing extremists,” “anti-fascists,” and vaguely defined “anti-American” ideologies. This is not about safety. It is a transparent attempt to weaponize government power against political dissent, protest movements, and marginalized communities. Let me be absolutely clear: protesting injustice is not terrorism. Dissent is not extremism. Speaking out against authoritarianism is not anti-American. In fact, protest is one of the most patriotic things an American can do. This country was founded by people who resisted abuse of power and demanded accountability from their government. The language being used in this strategy is intentionally broad and dangerous. History has shown us exactly what happens when governments start labeling ideological opponents as security threats. Civil rights leaders, anti-war activists, labor organizers, LGBTQ people, and marginalized communities have repeatedly been surveilled, harassed, and targeted under the guise of “national security.” The targeting of people associated with LGBTQIA+ communities is especially alarming. A person’s gender identity or sexuality has absolutely nothing to do with terrorism. LGBTQ Americans are not threats to this country. They are our neighbors, families, coworkers, veterans, teachers, healthcare workers, and public servants. The attempt to associate queer identity, anti-fascist activism, or progressive political beliefs with extremism is hateful, reckless, and profoundly un-American. We should all be deeply disturbed by a government strategy that appears more focused on punishing ideological opponents than protecting constitutional rights. The First Amendment protects speech, protest, assembly, advocacy, and dissent — especially dissent that challenges those in power. I urge you to publicly oppose any effort to expand domestic surveillance, policing, or counterterrorism powers in ways that target lawful protest movements, LGBTQ communities, activists, or political opponents. Silence in moments like this enables abuse. Defending civil liberties should not be partisan. Democracy depends on it.