This article was published more than 3 years ago.
We are outraged and heartbroken by the violence that consumed Washington, DC, on January 6, 2021. Despite the United States’ flawed history, the peaceful transfer of power has been a cornerstone of its enduring democracy. We watched, horrified, as would-be insurrectionists stormed the U.S. Capitol, inspired and incited by the sitting president, Donald Trump. We unequivocally condemn those responsible for this seditious assault on America’s democratic process and institutions.
Make no mistake: that horrifying spectacle of violence, perpetrated by right-wing extremists and conspiratorial cultists, was the inevitable result of President Trump’s words and actions over the last four years. His continued incitement demonstrates he is unfit to remain in office. But President Trump did not act alone. The federal and state officials who have lied to the American people also bear responsibility. And the stark contrast between police complicity on display at the Capitol and the militarized response to Black Lives Matter demonstrations underscores a deep vein of virulent white supremacy in the country.
The events that transpired at the U.S. Capitol are sure to embolden authoritarian regimes around the world. But the same day brought hopeful news from Georgia, where organized and dedicated voting rights activists overcame decades of disenfranchisement to prove they can still make democracy better. Wherever we work, the Fund is dedicated to combatting the harmful, divisive rhetoric and beliefs that fan the violent fires of hate and conspiracy – and lifting up the passionate, courageous activists whose work will unite us in peace.
