There are times when I feel numb to the state of the world, especially for those living in the United States. The constant 24/7 news cycle focuses relentlessly on the actions and words of the President and their administration, often amplifying messages of cruelty and hate. Many argue that the news is simply reporting, not spreading hate, but the effect remains.
I do not believe we should hide what is happening, but I question why so few are willing to call out the depravity in our country. In a nation where safety is no longer guaranteed for anyone—citizens and undocumented people alike—those simply trying to survive are told to keep moving. The hypocrisy is striking, reminiscent of the treatment of Native Americans, who were also forcibly removed from their lands, faced violence and brutality, and suffered on the very soil that was taken from them by colonists.
The Plight of Migrants in America
However, unlike colonists, today’s migrants are not taking land or jobs—they often cannot work for most companies unless permitted to do so. Many live in the shadows, earning barely enough to survive, sometimes not even that, as life in the U.S. has become unattainable and unaffordable for many. Even those who do everything they are supposed to—go to school, earn a living, be good citizens—struggle to put food on the table and live a normal life. That possibility has been taken from many, and now we are faced with harsh law enforcement tactics likened to the “America Gestapo.”
Comparisons to History
Some object to comparing ICE and federal law enforcement to the Gestapo, claiming it diminishes the true horrors of Nazi Germany. Critics, often on the right, argue that these agencies are not murdering or kidnapping people—but there are reports of federal officers entering homes without warrants and detaining individuals without trial or due process, labeling them as agitators, dissidents, or enemies. While some insist the U.S. system has oversight unlike Nazi Germany, it is worth questioning how effective that oversight truly is. Others defend law enforcement and border control as simply doing their jobs, whether in Minneapolis or Timbuktu.
Public Figures and Historical Parallels
I am not alone in these concerns. In May, Governor Tim Walz compared ICE operations to the Gestapo. Joe Rogan, a prominent podcaster and Trump supporter, also drew this comparison. The parallels to Nazi Germany and World War II are stark reminders of a dark period in history. Holocaust educator Kristin Thompson emphasizes that understanding history is crucial to understanding our current society.
Worrying Signs in Official Rhetoric
Recently, a press conference featured the Homeland Security Secretary standing behind a podium that read, “One of Ours, All of Yours,” a slogan promoting collective responsibility—an ideology linked to authoritarian regimes and closely aligned with the Nazi party. While DHS stated this referred to a specific incident involving an off-duty Customs and Border Patrol officer, the Department of Labor has also used the slogan “One Homeland, One People, One Heritage,” echoing the Nazi slogan “Ein Volk, Ein Reich, Ein Fuhrer” (“One People, One Realm, One Leader”), a phrase from a well-known white nationalist anthem. The similarities are difficult to ignore, except perhaps for MAGA Republicans who see this as federal officers fulfilling their patriotic duty to remove migrants, especially those contributing to the community in essential roles.
The Contributions and Struggles of Migrants
Migrants are not limited to working in service roles; they are the backbone of sectors like construction and have helped keep costs of living lower. Despite the challenges of home ownership in places like California, migrants contribute significantly, yet they are being pushed out, which will eventually impact everyone. The assurances that things will work out ring hollow when the cost is our shared humanity. Some say the soul of the nation is dying—if it ever existed—because the U.S. has always acted as a global bully. Now, this is evident in the way the government treats its own people and neighbors who are simply trying to live their lives, care for their families, and support the economy.
Living in Fear and the Erosion of Safety
People may only recognize these dangers when they themselves are affected. The lines of what is permissible for the U.S. government are increasingly blurred, as now even U.S. citizens can be targeted. As a third-generation citizen, I no longer feel safe. I wonder if there will come a time when someone breaks down my door because of something I wrote, labels me a dissenter, and ships me away, never to be seen again.
A Call for Awareness and Compassion
I hope the American people will awaken to what we have become, but I am doubtful. Perhaps, as in the past, we need a wake-up call—not that I wish for it—but when will we learn our lesson? I am exhausted from devoting so much mental energy to our government and leadership, wishing only to live my life, care for my family, and focus on my mental health. The current state of the country only worsens my anxiety, worry, and depression. Even though I work and teach, it all feels overwhelming. I cannot imagine the fear undocumented migrants face daily, especially those at risk of dying at the hands of the government.
Closing Thoughts
I wish safety for everyone and encourage reaching out to those in our lives, especially people without the security of citizenship. There is no shame in caring for migrants and the undocumented—they are human beings striving to be responsible and kind, qualities we are losing as a society. Embrace your neighbors, loved ones, and children, because today, you never know what may come.
Joe Meyers Adventures 