A Call to Bureaucrats

In a speech made in Accra, Ghana in 2009, President Obama explained that successful democracy requires strong institutions – not strong men. Although he was directing his remarks to African nations, the sentiment should resonate with Americans today.

The United States has never been confronted with a less prepared candidate – one who makes decisions without forethought or careful consideration of the consequences. When applied to national security, this approach to decision-making will have disastrous and ineffective results.

Based on Trump’s rhetoric, immigrant and Muslim communities are under threat of deportation, seclusion, and massive violations of basic civil rights. The dark, near past of Guantanamo’s indefinite detentions may reemerge with American citizens in the cells.  The sanctioning of torture and disregard for international law may resurface. And the humanitarian crisis in Syria will worsen if the US shirks its responsibilities for civilians.

In a country that prides itself on the strength of its democracy, our institutions must demonstrate their worth. Those 2.8 million people working for the federal government in the US and around the world must remember their oaths to support and defend the Constitution of the United States.  Protect all of us from unreasonable searches and seizures and from allowing the government to widen the exceptions. Respect the Convention Against Torture which prevents all forms of torture and indefinite detention.  Respect the Geneva Conventions.

But part of upholding their oaths is insisting that the impending administration do the same. Without those steadfast commitments to our institutions, it is not an impossibility for them to crumble.