Dear Friends,
I’m writing to you with an important and urgent message.
On December 5, following the shooting of UHC CEO, many of us discovered that we have a lot in common. Countless people on social media shared deeply personal, harrowing stories of suffering and damage caused by a system that prioritizes corporate profit over human well-being. Tens of thousands spoke about abuse by healthcare companies and other corporations, leading to bankruptcy, homelessness, disability, and even death—all while these entities made billions. For a moment, Americans came together, setting aside political differences to support one another.
This newfound understanding among regular people is a vital opportunity—one that could make a life-saving difference.
Having lived through troubling times in the Soviet Union, I’ve seen firsthand how oligarchies and police states destroy nations and their people. Back in Georgia and Russia, I learned to sniff out dangerous political trends because my survival depended on it. I see similar warning signs here, and we have a narrow window to act peacefully.
Those threatening our freedoms are highly organized, well-funded, and powerful. Recent actions—such as the swift arrest of a mother of three for uttering mere five words on a phone call or the unfathomable escalation of charges against a corporate CEO’s shooter—are not random. These are warning signals.
Please don’t ignore them. Stay alert and informed. Read articles that speak of oligarchy and recent human rights violations. I encourage you to browse social media, which, despite increasing censorship, reveals the unprecedented scale of frustration across the nation. Watch for double standards, outrageous accusations, and disproportionate retaliations—these are the precursors to authoritarian measures. Once these take root, reversing them is nearly impossible without enormous sacrifices.
But it is clear that we still have influence. The new legislation being prepared in the Senate and HR, the reported increase of health insurance claims, a retraction of the limitations to coverage of anesthesia – all these changes are solely due to our collective outcry. And the only way we can achieve something is by being united.
Yes, the divisions between the left and the right have caused wounds, but now is not the time for sarcasm or infighting. We would be wise to pause and come together for peaceful action. We are not each other’s enemies, no matter how much those in power want us to believe otherwise.
Look at Europe—citizens there demand accountability from their governments and enjoy better conditions. We can follow their example. Get informed, organize locally, and build connections. Write and call your representatives, pressing them on important issues that preserve Your rights and freedoms. The window of opportunity is closing fast.
Thank you for reading. I care about each of you, regardless of beliefs or background. You deserve peace, happiness, and a future worth fighting for.
With love and hope,
Tamara Eristavi
12/18/2024