February 5th, 2024
The following letter from me (or an edited version thereof) was published in yesterday’s edition of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
“Over the years, I have participated in numerous public protests. In fact, I was arrested at an anti-war demonstration back in 2017 for civil disobedience. I don’t go to these events anymore partly because I don’t see them as being particularly useful. Yes, a massive demonstration can be impressive and inspiring, but its effects are usually ephemeral. I suspect this will be the case with the current pro-Palestinian rallies.
We live in the United States of ADHD. A raucous protest might be reported by the media and catch the eye of the public, but Americans are easily distracted by the next shiny object that comes along. A demonstration is a wakeup call, a chance to alert people that a problem exists. That is all it can do.
In order to change minds and hearts about an issue, it is necessary for dialogue. Those who are promoting a cause need to talk with other people, not just at them. That requires time, hard work, and patience. It is so much easier to just scream slogans on the street. “
Frank is Emptiness 