American Institutions - We are not ok.

In recent months, many Americans have felt uneasy about the direction our country is headed. The current administration has made choices that challenge the very principles this nation was built upon. As communicators we know that most conflicts can be resolved through solid communication principles. But if you look at our changing political landscape, most breeches in the public trust are directly tied to the ability to control the message. This blog will give 4 reasons why this administration poses a significant threat to the American way of life, and cripple how we as government communicators talk about and disseminate information.

1. Attacks on Free Speech

Mahmoud Khalil the pro-Palestinian detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Khalil is an American citizen who was legally issued a green card. The status provides him with the protections of American laws. Khalil was behind organizing Palestinian protests at Columbia University. The protests happened at universities across the nation, and some were violent and out of hand -and people were arrested.

The American government is attempting to deport a citizen because he spoke against the government. Free speech is at the foundation of the American core. The current administration has often shown a disregard for free speech. But what's troubling is the inconsistency of who is allowed to have the right. When the January 6th riots occured, the administration praised the rioters, and called the incident a "Love Fest". The rioters broke into the Capitol and looted and vandalized property. A woman was killed and many Police officers died as a result in the incident.

Khalil faces deportation, and J6 rioters (over 1400) were set free by presidential pardon. Citizens who disagree with the views of this administration face threats and intimidation. This directly undermines the First Amendment and the rule of law - everyone should be able to express their opinions freely without repercussions.

2. Divisive Rhetoric

Earth One or Earth Two? Where do you live? The media landscape is changing, and in order for us to analyze political rhetoric we have to look back and explore how we arrived to this place. The media used to research information through reputable sources and prepare the facts in a way that caters to their audience's understanding. When watching a news program back then each newscast would have the same facts, and news outlets would only inject their opinion by labeling the piece an editorial.

Those guardrails are gone, and now media does not conform to any journalistic standards. Now the measure of success is measured by virility and reach algorithms. This often leads to misleading information disguising as truth. It's hard to know what information is factual and what is fake.

Our government today has often used language that divides rather than unites. By labeling opponents as "enemies," they create an environment of fear and hostility. This kind of rhetoric can lead to real-world violence and makes it harder for Americans to come together to solve our common problems.

3. Undermining Democratic Institutions

Rule of law, free and fair elections and separation of powers, are the 3 foundation pillars of American life. They undergird our democracy, and allow for every citizen to strive to achieve the "American Dream." As a communicator we should worry about all institutional attacks, but the one we should draw the line is a "free and independent news media." Allowing the media to report on events and hold those in power accountable without censorship or undue influence, is vital for every American. It is how we stay informed about how the government is operating on our behalf.

To put it lightly, right now our government is blurring the lines with all of our institutions. Their supporters want change, and the administration pimp common ideas like "Free speech" and "Patriotism." This allows for a false narrative, to circulate propaganda, conspiracy theories and hate.

Today's administration has repeatedly attacked the integrity of our democratic institutions. They have questioned the legitimacy of elections and undermined the public's trust in the judicial system. This behavior erodes the foundation of our democracy and sets a dangerous precedent for future political leaders.

4. Disregard for Fact-Based Governance

Because our information environment is so fractured it is hard to determine what facts really exist? The need for truth is paramount, government communications should be consistent and clear. Fact checking has become a "bad word" under this administration. I think we should all ask the question, why is transparency bad? Our institutions thrive on evidence backed by scientific facts. It's crucial for our health and how we implement programs - but more importantly public trust. In Texas there has been a measles outbreak, simply because of the mistrust of the American health care system. Don't get me wrong, the health care system needs an overhaul, but mis-information has some citizens believing that all vaccines are harmful. This is simply wrong, and our families are at risk because of it. A child died behind these beliefs, and it is unfathomable that people still put their children at risk. The current administration often spreads misinformation and disregards scientific facts. Especially in areas like public health and environmental policies. When decisions are made based on falsehoods, it puts everyone’s safety and future at risk.

This is not normal.

With all that said there is still hope, and you as a professional communicator has a responsibility to eradicate bad information with good solid communications practices and protocols. It's going to take all of us. Regardless of political affiliation, religion or race, we all benefit from good communications. Here are a few ways you can take action and fight for truth and resist these practices:

- Promote Transparency: Share clear and accurate information with the public to counter misinformation.

- Research vigorously: Always research multiple sources and know the misinformation angle so you can better refute.

- Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster conversations that welcome diverse opinions and challenge divisive rhetoric.

- Stand Up for Rights: Advocate for the protection of constitutional rights and hold officials accountable for any violations.

Thomas Y. Lynch

Write Shoot & Edit - Everyday!

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