The AIDS activists of the 1980’s coined the motto Silence=Death to protest the government’s non-response to thousands of gay men dying of an unknown disease, HIV.
It wasn’t until I went to work for the City of Austin Health Department that I paid much attention. When my job was testing anyone and everyone and later giving out HIV results both negative and positive, that I was really aware of the crisis. I once gave positive results to a pregnant woman who didn’t speak English. I probably wasn’t the best person for the job but I was it.
This week I’m seeing influencers of all stripes, comedians, chefs, artists, exercise trainers, dancers and athletes etc speaking out against the horror that is going on in Minnesota USA. Silence surely equals death. The pressure is on not to stay quiet.
Lisa and I could not have predicted any of it, but we knew long ago that we did not want to live in the US. I feel guilty for not protesting or being able to take action. After all, I’m an old hippy who marched in New York City with thousands, protesting the Vietnam War.
My effort to do our part has been awareness of political contributions by various companies to Trump and refusing to give them a nickel, including Amazon, Whole Foods, Target, and Home Depot. It’s time to put our money where our mouth is, so to speak. I know it’s not a lot but every bit helps, at least I’d like to think so.
So this is Dos Tortas not being silent. I’m sorry it took two white people being killed for people to take to the streets. Here in Mexico we have met numerous people who were evicted or self deported. Their lives have been turned upside down. Some have no family, and don’t speak Spanish. Others like us are relieved to be away from the chaos.
Please look around your sphere of influence. Speak up or at least get to know your neighbors. Let’s do what we can to put a stop to it. We owe it to future generations.
DOS TORTAS
the adventures of dos tortas 
Nice blog! As I’ve told you, I waited far too long to make any decisions about getting out. Might have done it on my own when 20 years younger, but not at 79. So many doctors these days and only the Universe know how much time. Hugs to you and Lisa.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I feel the same way about where we live. I’m thinking about someplace w less maintenance less work. Afraid we’re waiting until it’s too late.
LikeLike
Yeah Alex, the “less maintenance, less work” and what you have is beyond my comprehension as far as maintenance. I have so many friends where I am (sigh) and I keep thinking “where would I go?” I’m sure not ready for assisted living. Something would have to happen to light a fire under my butt.
LikeLike
I agree with Karen, at 79 I can’t make the move.
I’m distressed with all of this also. I can no longer watch the news.
But I’m also paranoid. I’m going to need to fly this summer. I’m afraid of government agents looking into what I’ve been doing, so I’ve started being cautious about clicking any “likes“ or engaging with people on Facebook.
But you might want to edit your post to say Minnesota rather than Michigan.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oops. I get it. Fortunately or unfortunately our white privilege is quite protective
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is, but this is the first time in my life I’ve been nervous. Hopefully I really don’t have anything to worry about.
LikeLike
Thank you Alex – thank you !
Lorrie Jones
Simple Serenity
simpleserenity.comhttp://simpleserenity.com/
253.312.3117
LikeLike