According to Wikipedia, and Dictionary.com, a culture war is a cultural conflict between social groups and the struggle for dominance of their values, beliefs, and practices. It commonly refers to topics on which there is general societal disagreement and polarization in societal values. Its origins began in this country in the 20's. Not surprisingly, the phrase was used to drive a wedge between urban and rural people over immigration: Then came the 90's, and the rise of Fox news, and another type of culture war... These 'hot button issues' should never have been made so, and yet they were.

But here is the thing: in the year 2022, should we still accept this term? In this year, the terrible two's of the decade, we have calls to ban books, de-transition children, ban abortion, arrest teachers, renew child marriage, praise of Hitler and I don't even believe I have the most grievous things mentioned. Add to the list if you so choose.

This is not a culture war. This is not city v. country. It is not rich v. poor. It's not about the hippies v. "the suits". Interestingly enough, hippies were actually considered counter-culture. One could argue that very same title to today's GOP.

But again - it's not about culture anymore. It is far more sinister.

This is not, as stated above, social groups trying to promote beliefs. This is one party trying to erase dignity, pride, and humanity from people they disagree with and about. It is anti-science and devoid of empathy. This is not about culture - it's about erasure. Once people stop seeing those who are the targets of hate as human, it is far easier to excuse the promoters of hate.

And - as history shows - that kind of behavior allows for atrocities to begin. The is not a culture war. This is a party manipulating a cult for political power. It has to stop because eventually, they will come for you and me.

&
Raine