The seeds were planted in June of 2015, and they germinated in Charlottesville, Virginia, last Saturday. The result was three dead and 20 or more injured.

What was that event in June which resulted in such hatred and violence? It was in June of 2015 that Donald Trump declared his candidacy for the Republican Party’s presidential nomination. His rallies became infamous for their atmosphere of anger, hatred, and suggestions of violence. Racism was abundant as Trump found his supporters.

Hate crimes, or what they should be more accurately labeled, ‘acts of domestic terrorism,’ began to increase across our nation. African Americans, Hispanics, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, the LGBTQ community and women were verbally and physically harassed and abused. Black Churches, Mosques, and Synagogues were damaged or destroyed. Vandalism became more common in places of worship all over America. It was only a matter of time when an event would be reported by the mainstream media reflecting the fact that the evil which has always existed in America had come out of the shadows. It happened last Saturday in Virginia.

These vile individuals claim that they are protected by the first amendment, but I’m not so sure. Would Trump allow a group of ISIS soldiers, who held American citizenship, to march through the streets and shout ‘death to America?’ White Supremacists are terrorists; shouldn’t all terrorists be treated in the same manner? The only differences that I can see is that white supremacists voted for Trump, and that one group calls themselves Muslims and the other claims to be Christians.

It’s way past time that all Americans denounce all forms of racism and bigotry, and face the truth; those who do not respect the Constitution and oppose its ideals and principles are potential domestic terrorists.

Trump’s support of the darker side of America will result in more events like the one in Charlottesville. These white supremacists and neo-nazis feel empowered by their new leader. Let’s be completely honest; Trump’s silly red hats had his slogan imprinted on them, but one word needed to be changed to offer the true meaning of a Trump presidency. They should say “make America white again.”

Please re-post; thank you.

Op-ed by James Turnage

SOURCE

My novels are available on Amazon; CLICK HERE