By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The erosion of democratic norms in the United States, evidenced by instances such as the extrajudicial imprisonment of legal residents and the suppression of dissent, has prompted three Yale professors—experts in authoritarianism—to relocate to the University of Toronto. Their departure represents a protest against the administration’s attacks on civil liberties and a recognition of the severity of the democratic backsliding. The professors highlight the vulnerability of American democracy and warn against complacency in the face of escalating threats. This exodus serves as a stark warning of the fragility of democratic institutions and the potential for further regression.
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We Study Fascism, and We’re Leaving the U.S.
We’re witnessing a growing concern, a palpable unease among those who deeply understand the historical trajectory of fascism. The parallels to past genocides and authoritarian regimes are striking, unsettlingly familiar. This isn’t just a matter of political disagreement; it’s a fear that the very foundations of democracy are crumbling, a fear that’s rooted in careful study and a profound understanding of history’s darkest chapters.
This deep understanding isn’t theoretical; it’s born from intense study of past fascist movements, a study that reveals alarming similarities to the current political climate. The erosion of democratic norms, the rise of extremist rhetoric, the increasing concentration of power – these are not isolated incidents, but interconnected parts of a worrying pattern. This fear isn’t hyperbole; it’s a reasoned assessment of the situation, based on rigorous historical analysis.
It’s understandable that this growing apprehension leads some to consider leaving the country. The idea of staying and fighting feels increasingly futile when facing a seemingly unstoppable force. The notion of a body politic breaking down and the monopoly on violence being lost isn’t a distant, theoretical possibility; it’s a genuine and terrifying prospect that is pushing individuals to seek safety elsewhere.
Yet, the decision to leave isn’t one made lightly. It’s a heartbreaking acknowledgement of the failure of institutions, a painful recognition that the fight for democracy might be lost, at least for now. The privilege to leave is not something many possess, and that disparity adds a layer of bitterness to this mass exodus of concerned scholars. The lack of financial resources for many prevents them from escaping, which creates feelings of injustice and anger towards those who can afford to leave.
For those who can leave, the decision is often born not from a lack of commitment, but from a recognition that the current situation is beyond repair – at least in the near term. It is a strategic retreat, a calculated decision to preserve knowledge and continue the fight for democracy from a safer vantage point. The historical precedent of scholars fleeing oppressive regimes and preserving crucial knowledge isn’t lost on them; it’s an example of how to maintain the fight against authoritarianism when conditions become impossible for open resistance.
However, this isn’t just about individual choices; it’s a reflection of a larger systemic failure. The very idea that scholars, people who dedicate their lives to understanding and combating fascism, feel compelled to flee their homeland speaks volumes about the dire situation. It’s a damning indictment of the current political climate, highlighting the fragility of democracy and the real threat posed by the rise of extremism.
This isn’t about giving up; it’s about strategizing. The fight against fascism isn’t always waged on the front lines. Sometimes, the most effective way to combat tyranny is by preserving knowledge, sharing information, and building a network of resistance from a place of safety. The hope is that by safeguarding knowledge and continuing their activism from a different location, they can contribute to a future where their homeland can once again become a place where democracy can flourish.
The criticisms leveled at those leaving are often rooted in misunderstanding. Accusations of cowardice and privilege ignore the very real danger faced by those who openly challenge authoritarian regimes. Public figures who speak out against authoritarianism become targets, and their safety is often jeopardized.
Leaving isn’t an act of surrender; it’s a tactical maneuver, a strategic retreat. It is a recognition of the overwhelming power of the forces at play and a conscious decision to preserve the resources needed to fight another day. The fight for democracy is a marathon, not a sprint, and sometimes strategic withdrawal is the most effective way to regroup and prepare for a future counter-offensive.
Ultimately, the decision of those who study fascism and choose to leave the United States reflects a profound understanding of the stakes involved, a deep concern for the future, and a calculated effort to ensure the survival of their work and their voices in the face of rising authoritarianism. Their departure is a warning to the rest of us.