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Below is an excerpt from this podcast — the print version is available below for two weeks:
“We face this problem that the same people on the ‘left’ who are soft on Tulsi Gabbard and Donald Trump are the new friends of Putin.”
—Paul Mason, April 25, 2022
If you look up the definition of ‘tankie’, you will find references to hardline Stalinists, members of communist groups who believe and defend the Soviet Union — even when clear violations of human rights are on display. The term originated for support of "sending the tanks in" to invade target countries.
The reason I’m dashing off this quick briefing to my readers is the alarming number of messages I received in the last 48 hours from colleagues and friends worried about the impact of US tankies.
To be clear, the role of US tankies is to deliver us right into the arms of fascism.—High Fidelity, RadPod cohost
We start by mentally deleting our old ideas about ideology — we can’t use old left-right frameworks for modern, hybrid ‘horseshoe’ warfare.
Evaluate the messaging you are hearing from the point of view of who it serves and who is hurt.
It’s a very old school Soviet-era KGB tactic—it’s a third position.—Jim Stewartson
Do not be fooled by the third position — do not be fooled by the tankies. Some may be sincere, and not even realize they are doing Putin’s bidding. But if we realize it, we can share with our networks and put a stop to their impact.
Don’t be divided. Find ways to unite people.
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We just have to see that the battle for democracy is broader. It's deeper.—David Pepper
I need people to see they're on the frontline. Wherever you live, if you’re doing this work, you are the frontline.—David Pepper
The message should be a fair deal… fairness everywhere.—Martin Sheil
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“I say a silent prayer of thanksgiving as I walk upon the earth.”-Audrey Peterman.
“May the viral hope for truth and humanity wash away the chaos of these years.”-S.C., Bette community member
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“Non-violent protest is a life-affirming activity as it seeks to promote a more humane society.”-Ellen Zucker
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Bette Dangerous Podcast Ep50 - Tankie Talk - How ‘Tankies’ Are Delivering Us to Fascism