Reflecting on the Good Old Bad Days of the 60s & 70s:

A Journey from Injustice to Visibility and its Causes, brace for a deep dive, this might hurt some to hear and face, but I urge people who disagree to stick it out and read the reasons.

The 1960s and 70s are often romanticized as a time of cultural revolution, free love, and social progress. Yet, beneath the veneer of flower power and hippie ideals, lurked a dark reality for many marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ+ and people of color. It was a time when violence and discrimination against these groups were not only prevalent but often condoned or ignored by society at large.

In these decades, being gay or a person of color was not just a matter of identity; it was a risk to one's safety and well-being. Hate crimes, particularly against LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color, were alarmingly common. These acts of violence were not perpetrated solely by fringe extremists but were often carried out by ordinary citizens, fueled by prejudice and bigotry.

One of the most distressing aspects of this era was the normalization of violence against marginalized communities. Gay bashing, racially motivated attacks, and other forms of discrimination were not just isolated incidents but were woven into the fabric of everyday life for many individuals. Drunkards and fools would engage in acts of violence against those perceived as different, with little fear of facing consequences for their actions.

Sadly, this violence was not limited to the streets. Many LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color faced discrimination and abuse within their own families and communities. Avowed "Christians" often led the charge in perpetuating these injustices, using religion as a justification for their bigotry and hatred. Families would disown their own children, churches would preach intolerance, and entire communities would ostracize those who dared to defy societal norms.

Many right-wing activists and members wonder where the stunningly beautiful older gay and trans persons are of that era, well, they were beaten until they had broken bodies or chased into hiding as normal presenting or whitewashing their identities, scared them with abuse and torment until you could give truth the lie that everything you hate is ugly. now years later many actors, politicians, and famous figures came out of the closet and the right wing went absolutely nuts. prominent figures proclaimed that they had been batting for the other team the whole time, and they felt betrayed by a system that was no longer telling them who it was okay to hate.

For many, the "stick-to-your-own-race" nuclear family was upheld as the only acceptable form of social unit, and any deviation from this norm was met with hostility and disdain. LGBTQ+ individuals, people of mixed race, and others who did not fit neatly into society's predetermined boxes faced immense pressure to conform or face the consequences. This pressure often led to profound feelings of shame, self-loathing, and isolation.

However, despite the pervasive discrimination and violence of the 60s and 70s, this period also marked the beginning of a movement towards visibility and equality for marginalized communities. Brave individuals and activists fought tirelessly to challenge the status quo and demand justice for those who had been oppressed for too long.

Visibility days and pride flags became symbols of resistance and solidarity, rallying cries for those who refused to be silenced or marginalized any longer. These movements were not just about raising awareness; they were about reclaiming dignity and asserting the right to exist openly and authentically in a world that had long denied them that basic human right.

Yet, the fight for equality is far from over. Despite the progress that has been made, hate crimes and discrimination continue to plague LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and other marginalized groups around the world. The struggle for acceptance and equality is ongoing, and it will not end until every person can live free from fear of persecution or violence simply for being who they are.

When we look at someone's happiness in loving another person and feel revulsion or hate, the problem is not with them; it is with us. It is a reflection of our own prejudices and insecurities, our inability to accept and celebrate the beautiful diversity of the human experience. Until we confront and dismantle these internalized biases, the cycle of hate and discrimination will continue.

The good old bad days of the 60s and 70s serve as a sobering reminder of how far we have come and how far we still have to go. It is a testament to the resilience and courage of those who have fought and continue to fight for a more just and inclusive world. And it is a call to action for all of us to stand up, speak out, and work towards a future where love truly does conquer all.

In the turbulent times of the 60s and 70s, the scapegoating of marginalized communities provided a convenient outlet for the frustrations and insecurities of those who felt threatened by social change. For many, losing a group of people to blame for the things wrong with the world or the tragedies in their lives can be a disorienting and unsettling experience. It requires confronting uncomfortable truths about oneself and one's place in society.

The release of pent-up anger and frustration through acts of violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and other marginalized groups served to validate the choices and sacrifices made by those who adhered to societal norms and expectations. It reinforced the belief that their way of life was superior and righteous, and that any deviation from this norm was a threat to their identity and values.

Moreover, the normalization of discrimination and violence allowed individuals to justify their actions as necessary evils in the face of perceived threats to their way of life. By demonizing and dehumanizing those who dared to challenge the status quo, they could absolve themselves of guilt and responsibility for the harm they inflicted upon others.

This sense of validation and justification was particularly pronounced within certain religious communities, where adherence to strict moral codes and traditional values was paramount. In the eyes of many "avowed Christians," fighting against perceived immorality and deviance became a righteous crusade, sanctioned by God Himself. It was a way to reaffirm their faith and commitment to their beliefs, even in the face of a changing and increasingly diverse world.

Yet, beneath this veneer of righteousness and moral superiority lay a deep-seated sense of discontent and disillusionment. In a universe that often seemed indifferent to their struggles and sacrifices, the release of anger and resentment provided a fleeting sense of power and control in an otherwise chaotic and unpredictable world.

For some, the targeting of marginalized communities served as a means of asserting dominance and superiority in a society that often left them feeling powerless and insignificant. It allowed them to assert their perceived superiority over those they deemed inferior or unworthy, reinforcing their own sense of self-worth and importance in the process.

However, this false sense of validation and empowerment came at a steep cost – the perpetuation of injustice, suffering, and division within society. It was a cycle of violence and oppression that only served to further entrench the very systems of inequality and discrimination that marginalized communities were fighting against.

As we reflect on the dark days of the past, it is crucial to acknowledge the complex interplay of factors that contributed to the perpetuation of discrimination and violence against marginalized communities. It is a sobering reminder of the dangers of allowing fear, prejudice, and insecurity to dictate our actions and beliefs.

Ultimately, true progress and healing can only come from confronting and dismantling the systems of oppression and injustice that continue to divide us. It requires a willingness to confront our own biases and prejudices, to listen to the voices of those who have been marginalized and oppressed, and to work together towards a future where every individual is valued, respected, and able to live their lives free from fear and discrimination. The fear and resistance among extreme hard-right Christians to the shifting demographics and evolving social landscape are palpable. For decades, they have held sway as the dominant voice in American society, wielding significant influence over politics, culture, and morality. However, as the demographics of the nation change and the voices of marginalized communities grow louder, the once-unquestioned authority of the hard-right Christian establishment is being challenged like never before.

At the heart of this fear is the realization that they are slowly losing the majority, and their grip on power is slipping. The base of people willing to be exploited or marginalized for the benefit of a select few is shrinking, as more individuals awaken to the realities of systemic inequality and injustice. This seismic shift in public consciousness poses a direct threat to the hard-right Christian agenda, which relies on maintaining control and perpetuating a narrow, exclusionary worldview.

For many hard-right Christians, particularly those who espouse supremacist ideologies, the idea of sharing power or relinquishing control is anathema. They cling to a vision of America where their voices are the only ones that matter, where their interpretation of Christianity is the only valid one, and where anyone who dares to challenge their authority is swiftly silenced or marginalized.

This sense of entitlement and superiority is deeply ingrained in the psyche of hard-right Christians, who view themselves as the guardians of traditional values and morality. They see any deviation from their narrow definition of "righteousness" as a threat to their way of life, and they are willing to go to extreme lengths to defend their perceived dominance.

Furthermore, the alliance between hard-right Christians and other powerful interests, such as corporate elites and conservative politicians, has allowed them to wield disproportionate influence over public policy and discourse. They have used their platform to advance their own agenda, often at the expense of marginalized communities and the common good.

However, as the tides of change continue to sweep across America, the days of unchecked power and privilege for hard-right Christians are numbered. The rising tide of progressive activism, social justice movements, and grassroots organizing is challenging the status quo and demanding accountability from those in positions of authority.

The hard-right Christian establishment may cling to their dwindling power with desperation and defiance, but they cannot halt the march of progress indefinitely. The voices of the marginalized and oppressed will no longer be silenced.

The desperation of hard-right Christians to cling to power has led them into alliances with some unlikely bedfellows, exposing the cracks in their facade of moral righteousness and ideological purity. As they struggle to maintain their grip on influence, they find themselves partnering with individuals and groups whose beliefs and actions are diametrically opposed to their professed values.

The list of strange bedfellows that hard-right Christians have cozied up to is indeed shocking and serves as a stark reminder of the moral compromises they are willing to make in pursuit of their agenda. Even within the ranks of Trump's Republican right, there exists a tangled web of alliances that would make any principled conservative cringe.

From white supremacist groups to conspiracy theorists, from foreign governments with questionable human rights records to corporate interests with no regard for the common good, the spectrum of partners that hard-right Christians have aligned themselves with is as varied as it is disturbing.

At home, hard-right Christians have found common cause with hate groups and extremist organizations that espouse racist, xenophobic, and misogynistic ideologies. They have turned a blind eye to the violence and hate speech perpetrated by these groups, viewing them as allies in their fight against what they perceive as the encroachment of liberal values and progressive ideals.

Furthermore, the entanglement of hard-right Christians with foreign actors and interests is particularly troubling. Whether it's cozying up to authoritarian regimes in exchange for political support or turning a blind eye to human rights abuses in the pursuit of geopolitical goals, these alliances undermine the very principles of democracy and freedom that hard-right Christians claim to hold dear.

The willingness of hard-right Christians to compromise their values in pursuit of power and influence is a testament to the corrosive nature of political expediency and moral relativism. It exposes the hypocrisy at the heart of their movement and serves as a stark reminder that the pursuit of power at any cost ultimately corrodes the soul.

Amidst the backdrop of these unholy alliances and moral compromises, there looms a specter that haunts the collective consciousness of not just hard-right Christians, but of humanity as a whole: the lingering dread of the Cold War and the ever-present threat of nuclear annihilation.

For decades, the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union cast a shadow of fear and uncertainty over the world. The specter of mutually assured destruction, with the potential for nuclear weapons to wipe out entire cities and civilizations in an instant, left an indelible mark on the psyche of entire generations.

Even the most ardent proponents of the hard-right Christian agenda could not escape the pervasive sense of dread that accompanied the threat of nuclear war. It was a fear that permeated every aspect of daily life, from the political arena to popular culture, from the halls of power to the dinner tables of ordinary families.

The doctrine of mutually assured destruction, which held that any nuclear attack would result in the total annihilation of both aggressor and defender, created a precarious balance of power that kept the world teetering on the brink of catastrophe. The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 brought the world to the edge of nuclear war, serving as a chilling reminder of the fragility of peace and the destructive power of nuclear weapons.

For hard-right Christians, who often viewed the Cold War through the lens of a cosmic struggle between good and evil, the threat of nuclear war took on apocalyptic proportions. Many saw it as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy, a sign of the end times foretold in the Book of Revelation. This eschatological worldview only served to heighten their sense of fear and apprehension, reinforcing their belief in the righteousness of their cause and the urgency of their mission.

Yet, even as the Cold War faded into history and the specter of nuclear annihilation receded from the forefront of public consciousness, the lingering fear never quite went away. The proliferation of nuclear weapons, coupled with the rise of rogue states and non-state actors, has kept the threat alive in the minds of many.

Today, as tensions simmer between nuclear-armed adversaries and the specter of nuclear war once again rears its head, the fear that gripped the world during the Cold War remains as palpable as ever. It is a sobering reminder of the fragility of peace and the ever-present danger of human folly.

In the face of this existential threat, the alliances and compromises made by hard-right Christians pale in comparison. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet lose his soul to the fires of nuclear Armageddon? The pursuit of power and influence, at the expense of integrity and moral principle, is a hollow victory indeed in the shadow of the mushroom cloud.

Indeed, it's crucial to contextualize the actions and beliefs of hard-right Christians within the broader socio-political landscape of the Cold War era. While this does not excuse bigotry or racism, it provides important insights into the factors that shaped their worldview and influenced their behavior.

During the Cold War, the ideological struggle between capitalism and communism fueled a climate of fear and paranoia, where any deviation from the norm was viewed with suspicion. In this atmosphere of heightened tension and uncertainty, hard-right Christians often saw themselves as defenders of traditional values and guardians against the perceived threat of godless communism.

This sense of existential dread was compounded by the fear of nuclear war, which cast a long shadow over everyday life. The prospect of nuclear annihilation loomed large in the public consciousness, breeding a pervasive sense of anxiety and fatalism. In the face of such existential threats, it's understandable that many individuals sought solace and security in the familiar comforts of tradition and orthodoxy.

Moreover, the civil rights movement and other social upheavals of the 1960s challenged the established order and stirred anxieties about the erosion of traditional hierarchies and identities. For hard-right Christians, who saw themselves as the vanguard of a besieged way of life, these changes were deeply unsettling and often met with heavy resistance.

In this context, bigotry and racism were not merely individual failings but were deeply ingrained in the fabric of society. They were reinforced by institutional structures and cultural norms that upheld white supremacy and marginalized communities of color. Hard-right Christians, steeped in this milieu of fear and prejudice, often found themselves complicit in perpetuating these injustices, whether consciously or unconsciously, whether through business practices like redlining or bus routes that deliberately excluded certain communities, or bridges built deliberately too shallow as to even allow busses to pass.

Understanding the complex interplay of historical, political, and cultural factors that shaped the beliefs and actions of hard-right Christians does not excuse their bigotry or racism. However, it does provide important insights into the roots of these attitudes and behaviors, and underscores the need for a nuanced and multifaceted approach to addressing systemic inequality and injustice.

As we confront the legacies of the past and strive to build a more just and equitable future, it's essential to recognize the ways in which fear, insecurity, and ignorance can warp perceptions and distort moral judgment throughout the ages. By grappling with the complexities of our shared history, we can work towards a society that is more compassionate, inclusive, and just for all.

Indeed, the culture zeitgeist of the Cold War era laid the groundwork for the emergence and proliferation of modern corporate culture, with its hidden layers of unspoken rules and secret laws. As society grappled with the existential threats posed by nuclear war and ideological conflict, the values and norms of the corporate world mirrored and reinforced the prevailing attitudes of the time.

In the corporate landscape of the 1960s and 70s, conformity and obedience were prized above all else. Employees were expected to toe the line, adhere to strict hierarchies, and suppress any dissenting voices or unconventional ideas. This culture of conformity was seen as essential for maintaining stability and order within the workplace, much like the rigid social structures that governed broader society.

Moreover, the Cold War mentality fostered a climate of suspicion and paranoia, where secrecy and subterfuge were seen as necessary tools for survival. In the corporate world, this translated into a culture of secrecy and opacity, where information was tightly controlled and access was restricted to those deemed worthy of trust. This atmosphere of secrecy not only served to protect corporate interests but also reinforced the power dynamics inherent within the organization.

At the same time, the fear of communism (which as most know lingers to this day) and the specter of external threats provided justification for the consolidation of power and the suppression of dissent within corporate hierarchies. Executives and managers wield considerable authority over their subordinates, often with little accountability or oversight. This "king knows best" top-down approach to management mirrored the authoritarian tendencies of the political establishment, reinforcing the idea that power and control were synonymous with leadership.

Within this corporate culture, unspoken rules and secret laws governed every aspect of organizational life, from hiring and promotion decisions to employee conduct and behavior. Those who dared to challenge the status quo or deviate from the established norms risked ostracism, retaliation, or worse.

Furthermore, the culture of secrecy and opaqueness extended beyond the walls of the corporation, permeating every aspect of public life. From government agencies to media conglomerates, from educational institutions to religious organizations, the influence of corporate culture was pervasive and far-reaching.

In many ways, the rise of modern corporate culture can be seen as a reflection of the broader context in which it emerged. It was a culture shaped by fear and uncertainty, driven by the imperatives of power and control, and marked by a pervasive sense of conformity and obedience.

As we confront the legacies of this era and strive to build a more just and equitable society, it's essential to recognize the ways in which corporate culture has perpetuated and reinforced systemic inequality and injustice. By shining a light on the hidden layers of unspoken rules and secret laws that govern corporate life, we can work towards creating workplaces that are more transparent, inclusive, and accountable to all.

The layers of modern corporate culture have indeed been peeled back to the marrow, revealing the roots of a system that is deeply entrenched in the fetid corpse of the past era. What emerges is a chilling portrait of a culture that has been cloaked in a new suit of legitimacy, but whose essence remains rooted in the same toxic ideologies and power dynamics that defined the Cold War era.

At the heart of this culture are the horrid, angry little-minded men all over, who call for control, hate, and violence around the globe. These individuals, emboldened by their positions of power and influence, seek to sow division and discord in pursuit of their selfish interests. They prey on the fears and insecurities of others, manipulating public opinion and stoking the flames of bigotry and prejudice for their gain.

Chief among these figures is the small orange con man who rose to prominence on a wave of fear and resentment. His brand of demagoguery and authoritarianism has poisoned the well of public discourse, emboldening hate groups and legitimizing waves of xenophobia and racism. Under his leadership, the darkest impulses of society have been unleashed, with devastating consequences for marginalized communities and the fabric of democracy itself.

Yet, the small orange con man is not alone in his crusade to preserve the tainted status quo at all costs. He is bolstered by a legion of angry zealots who are blinded by their fear of the end of their way of life. These individuals cling to outdated notions of supremacy and privilege, lashing out at anyone who threatens to challenge their dominance.

They fear others doing to them what they have done to others.

That fear pushes deep and dark impulses that feed insecurity and paranoia.

That rally of the white supremacy group with Tiki torches? a parade of the afraid. they said as much, swearing they "would not be replaced"

the January 6th rioter that stormed the white house? and a band of fearful people who believed wrongly their lives were being given to take down what they saw as and had been told were corrupt officials. As they reached the last chambers Trump called them off and they realized they were just his attack dogs used to threaten his opponents.

That they realized, They weren't like the patriots of old watering the tree of freedom but dogs pissing on its roots.

Together, these purveyors of hate and division represent the rotten core of modern corporate and hard-right religious culture, a culture that elevates profit over people and power over principles. They exploit the vulnerabilities of the marginalized and the disenfranchised, pitting neighbor against neighbor in a cynical game of divide and conquer.

Yet, even as they wield their influence with impunity, the tide is turning against them. The awakening of a new generation, steeped in the values of inclusivity and justice, is challenging the entrenched power structures of the past. From grassroots movements to global protests, people are rising up to demand accountability and change.

As the layers of corporate culture are peeled back to reveal the rot within, there is a growing recognition that the status quo is no longer tenable. The stench of corruption and injustice permeates every corner of society, demanding action and reform. Only by confronting the roots of modern culture and dismantling the systems of oppression that uphold it can we hope to build a more just and equitable future for all.

The downside of the current state of affairs is that those who have risen to power in our modern age often owe their ascent to the tacit approval and support of these entrenched avenues of power. These avenues, controlled by shadowy elites and corporate interests, dictate who is deemed "acceptable" and who is not, effectively shaping the trajectory of political careers and determining who reaches the heights of "real power."

Even within the ranks of the Democratic Party, which purports to champion progressive values and social justice, there are individuals who have made Faustian bargains with the forces of corporate influence and establishment power. These individuals may pay lip service to ideals of equality and inclusivity, but their actions often betray a willingness to compromise on their principles in pursuit of political expediency.

As a result, both sides of the political aisle have found themselves with mud on their faces from this battle for power and influence. The lines between friend and foe, ally and adversary, have become increasingly blurred, as politicians of all stripes jockey for position within the labyrinthine corridors of power.

This dynamic has led to a profound crisis of legitimacy within the political establishment, as voters become increasingly disillusioned with a system that seems rigged against them. The rise of populist movements and anti-establishment sentiment is a direct response to this perceived betrayal of the public trust, as ordinary people demand accountability and transparency from their elected representatives.

Yet, despite these challenges, there is reason for hope. The very forces that have enabled the rise of corrupt and compromised politicians are also the ones that are fueling a grassroots movement for change. From local organizers to community activists, from progressive lawmakers to independent journalists, there is a growing coalition of individuals who are committed to challenging the status quo and building a more just and equitable society.

It is clear that the battle for the soul of our democracy is far from over, and the outcome is far from certain. Yet, in the face of adversity and uncertainty, there is an opportunity for renewal and transformation. By confronting the forces of corruption and inequality head-on, we can reclaim our democracy from the clutches of entrenched power and build a future that truly reflects the values of justice, equality, and democracy for all, which we must admit is far from how things stand today, as there exist examples who succeed while the USA languishes.

We are truly no longer #1, and it has been a long hard fall, let's see about standing up shall we?