I'm TonyPDX - hoping there are still progressives like myself out there

[TonyPDX]

I found DU after becoming disillusioned with communities that were once progressive and now barely unrecognizable to me.

My beliefs? I'm against inequality and discrimination in every form, anti-TPP, anti-NAFTA, anti-conservatism and authoritarianism, and against anyone's religious beliefs shaping our laws. I'm for saving our environment, pro-science, pro-women's rights, pro-cannabis legalization (like we have here in Oregon), pro-union, pro-immigration and immigrant rights, PRO-BERNIE SANDERS, pro-return to tariffs on imported goods, pro-returning manufacturing to the US. I believe that we're now living under an oligarchy and that fascism is where we're headed if we don't change course.

I am not inspired by the prospect of having another Clinton as president, with corporate darling Chuck Schumer at her side, and Henry Kissinger's number on the WH speed-dial. Internationally I believe people are people everywhere (some are good, some are bad, some are greedy, some are generous) but cultures can definitely be evil and exert their oppression on good citizens. In general I think if it was left up to the world's citizens we'd mostly get along fine, but the governments tend to screw things up.

I'm a parent of two teens and we have raised them to be active participants in the world, not observers.

I am here because I believe there are others with values similar to mine in this community. Whoever and wherever you are, I send warmest wishes for a peaceful, fulfilled life. Nice to meet you.