I had a nightmare last night that ICE was putting my neighbors into a van. Not that it should matter, but these particular neighbors are white US citizens. When I went to confront their captors, they asked if I would answer some questions and if I would get into their van to answer them. When I refused, they began searching my home.
Say what you will about my subconscious, at least it’s neighborly.
Based on some rhetoric, the fear that inspired this nightmare is unfounded. Those who have nothing to hide, they say, have nothing to fear. People here legally need not be worried. If I accept that then I don’t have to worry about myself. Fine.
But I am still afraid for my friends and neighbors. What if I want to protect them? Do I have anything to fear if I stand up for people who do have something to fear?
Unclear.
I have been assured that I am safe, but I am still afraid, and that’s the point, because this is a campaign of fear. That is how I know that it’s unjust, because no cause is virtuous if achieved by fear.
The Des Moines Register reported that a Latino heritage festival canceled their celebration out of fear of mass deportations. More than one social media commenter implied this fear was evidence of their guilt. But if fear implies guilt, then you can imprison anyone you can frighten.
And that, my friends, is truly frightening.