PPI Statement on the Destruction of Democracy Under President Trump
Pirate Parties International stands in solidarity with the people of the United States and our colleagues from the US Pirate Party. We respect the resilience of the American citizens and non-American citizens who live in fear during these challenging times. Since Trump has returned to power, we observe with growing concern the negative impacts his administration has had on the sacred values of our movement: democracy, transparency, and human rights. We find it sadly ironic that the United States, a nation that was recognized for promoting freedom, the greatest democracy in the planet, now represents an authoritarian axis.
PPI expresses deep concern not only for those in America, but also for those around the world who live with greater insecurity. We urge activists and political leaders to remain vigilant. We cannot give in to bullying! As Pirates, it is our duty to defy the corrupt, ruling elites! We are rebels against oppression! The global community depends on our freedom of non-violent protest! We will not bow to tyrants!
It is completely unacceptable that people who have been living years in the USA are being arrested by plainclothes and camouflaged federal agents, often in error, and often for minor infractions. Whether someone was arrested for participating in a protest, drunk driving, theft, being in a gang, or even committing murder, is not grounds to instantly abduct them without trial and send them to a prison in a foreign country where they will be abused.
Statements made by Trump that he will consider ways to stay in power beyond his term, only further prove that we are dealing with a megalomanic dictator. We must hold Trump and his entire administration responsible. Across the world, Pirate Parties will rise to defend the freedom to protest. We will march in the streets and speak out against mass surveillance, censorship, incarceration of immigrants, and all the abhorent things that are taking place.
History is not kind to the memories of dictators.
