Copy

Mussolini Before His March on Rome

“Strongman” Politicians Are Dangerous


Violent authoritarians sometimes succeed in overthrowing democratic governments with military coups. Other authoritarians win at the ballot box and then hijack democracy. They give false hope that only they, as the “strongman,” can relieve citizens’ angst and solve society’s problems. They mislead with disinformation and propaganda in order to conceal their intentions. Often their actual goal is to grab power as a means to plunder the economy to benefit themselves and their cronies.


Two historical models are Germany and Italy. In both countries, fascists came to power by winning elections. Many believe that America is immune from power grabs like these historical precedents, but America can falter as well. If we allow them, MAGA politicians will lead us into an authoritarian dead end.


DeSantis is a “Strongman” Exemplar

Read the rest of the article about DeSantis HERE

Stand Up For Democracy


FLVCS is still on the front lines working to preserve our democracy from those who would install an American strongman to rule over us.


What, When, and Where


Now is the time to show that you are with us by attending the talk by Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat that we are sponsoring on Veterans Day, Saturday, November 11 at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 3979 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota.


All FLVCS members and supporters should attend.


Event Description


TALK: FASCISM AT OUR DOORSTEP


A Veteran’s Day speech by one of America’s leading authorities on the rise of fascism and dictatorships.


On November 11th, Dr. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, one of America’s leading scholars on the rise of fascism, will speak at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota, 3975 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL. about the dangers of fascism in America and the fascist playbook used worldwide to destroy democracies.


Her speech – at 6 PM -- is free, made possible by Florida Veterans for Common Sense, Choose Democracy Now, and Floridians For Democracy. Registration is required and available on Eventbrite. Dr. Ben-Ghiat’s talk will also be live-streamed on YouTube. HERE is the link.


Dr. Ruth Ben-Ghiat is an American historian and cultural critic. She is a professor of history and Italian studies at New York University and author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present. She writes for CNN, The Economist,The New Yorker, The Washington Post, and Atlantic


Non-Profit EXPO


Before the speech, at 4 PM, a Democracy EXPO will be held at the church with tables and literature from non-profit organizations in Florida.  A food truck will be available to purchase food and drink as well.

Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Dr. Ruth Ben-Ghiat

Join your fellow FLVCS members and supporters at this breakfast honoring veterans. FLVCS FUND is a sponsor and beneficiary of the breakfast. The Keynote Speaker will be FLVCS member, Kelvin Womack.


Individual Tickets are only $25. They can be purchased by a credit card call-in to Kim Noyes at 941-228-9144 or check payable to Kiwanis Club of Sarasota to 6120 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34231

Check Here for More Info


Questions: KimNoyesSarasota@gmail.com


Please wear an FLVCS shirt to the breakfast.

You can get them at Stitchen’ Waves

4433 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34231
Tel: 
941.929.1155


Order now or it may be too late to get your shirt before the breakfast.


Thought for the Day

When MAGA extremists are elected, expect poor governance, a hotter climate, and an explosion of wealth for billionaires.


Please Pay Your FLVCS Dues

Use paypal on our website, (scroll down on the right) or send a check for $45 payable to FLVCS to PO Box 2311, Sarasota, FL 34230


Donate to FLVCS