Social Justice Educator Calls for Unity to Defend Democracy

River Smith argues that standing up to bullies and autocrats is essential to preserving liberty and justice for all.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a guest column, social justice educator and author River Smith recounts a conversation with Benjamin Franklin, where they debated the balance between liberty and safety. Smith argues that giving in to bullies and autocrats only emboldens them, and that Americans of all backgrounds must come together to defend democracy and the American dream.

Why it matters

As the country faces growing concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the concentration of power, Smith's call for a united front to protect liberty and justice resonates. The piece highlights the risks of complacency in the face of authoritarian tendencies and the importance of civic engagement to safeguard the ideals of the republic.

The details

Smith recounts a conversation with Benjamin Franklin, where the Founding Father quoted his famous line about the dangers of sacrificing liberty for temporary safety. Smith disagreed, arguing that everyone deserves both liberty and safety, and that giving in to bullies only emboldens them. He points to the growing wealth gap, the takeover of media outlets by allies of the current president, and the creation of a 'gestapo-like' immigration enforcement agency as signs of an authoritarian creep that must be resisted.

  • The conversation between Smith and Franklin took place at their local coffee house while waiting for Tom Paine.
  • Smith references the 1787 constitutional convention, where Franklin warned that the new republic would only last if citizens could keep it.

The players

Benjamin Franklin

One of the Founding Fathers of the United States, known for his wisdom and aphorisms.

River Smith

A social justice educator and author of the book 'A Conspiracy to Love'.

Tom Paine

An influential political philosopher and one of the Founding Fathers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.”

— Benjamin Franklin

“If they push you today, and you let them, they'll push you more tomorrow and the day after, and the day after that. That's because bullies and autocrats tend to go as far as their potential victims allow them.”

— River Smith, social justice educator and author (cleveland.com)

What’s next

Smith encourages readers to get involved in the fight to defend democracy, whether by attending demonstrations, supporting legal challenges, or funding billboards and other advocacy efforts. He believes that by working together, Americans can save the republic and continue the journey towards realizing the American dream.

The takeaway

This piece underscores the urgent need for civic engagement and unity across political lines to counter the growing threat of authoritarianism. Smith's call to action highlights the responsibility of all citizens to safeguard the fundamental liberties and values that form the foundation of American democracy.