Muslim World Report

Rep. Jasmine Crockett on Political Evil and Hope for Change

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Mar 26, 2025 10:13 AM | 10 min read | 2024 words

TL;DR: At the HRC Dinner, Rep. Jasmine Crockett discussed the moral decay in politics and highlighted the need for collective action to overcome challenges posed by authoritarianism and extremism. This post explores the potential for change through activism, the dangers of unchallenged authoritarianism, and calls for strategic responses from various actors.

Political Turmoil and the Search for Hope

At the recent Human Rights Campaign Dinner, Representative Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) delivered remarks that resonate deeply in today’s polarized political landscape. Her candid acknowledgment of the “moral decay” permeating the highest levels of government—asking, “how could someone so evil” ascend to power—reflects a growing sentiment among citizens that the political arena has become increasingly authoritarian and disconnected from the populace. This sentiment is not limited to the United States; it finds a troubling parallel in the global context, particularly within the Muslim world, where the rise of extremism and authoritarian governance presents formidable challenges (Fish, 2002).

Crockett’s reflections emerge amid a rising tide of political apathy—a phenomenon driven by widespread disenchantment with electoral processes that prioritize wealth and power over the needs of ordinary people. This disillusionment is not just an American issue but a global trend, manifesting in regions such as the Middle East and North Africa, where oppressive regimes stifle freedoms, ignore human rights, and exploit grievances while masquerading as guardians of stability and security (Fish, 2002; Lohr & Sanborn, 2017). Just as the Arab Spring revealed the frailty of authoritarian rule in 2011, the current disillusionment signifies a boiling point where citizens are questioning the very foundations of their governance.

The implications of this political turmoil extend far beyond the immediate crises faced by individual nations. A global environment characterized by instability and discontent has the potential to fuel:

  • Terrorism
  • Civil unrest
  • Mass displacement

As political leaders become increasingly out of touch with their constituents, the void created may be filled by extremist ideologies that promise radical solutions to complex problems. This trajectory is not merely hypothetical; it mirrors the prelude to the rise of groups like ISIS, which adeptly exploited social grievances and political failures in Iraq and Syria. Will we learn from these historical lessons, or are we destined to repeat the same mistakes as we grapple with the consequences of unchecked power and disillusionment?

What If Authoritarianism Validates Extremism?

Should the trend of authoritarian governance continue unchallenged, we risk witnessing a significant rise in extremist ideologies worldwide. In areas where oppressive regimes suppress legitimate dissent, the absence of political outlets often leads disenfranchised citizens, especially youth, to seek refuge in radical ideologies. This phenomenon is vividly illustrated in the ongoing turmoil in places like Syria and Iraq, where authoritarianism and violence have paved the way for groups like ISIS to flourish (Kuran, 1996; Woodford, 2014). Historical parallels can be drawn to the rise of Nazi Germany, where economic despair and authoritarian rule created fertile ground for extremist ideologies to take root, ultimately leading to catastrophic consequences.

The implications of unchecked extremism are severe; heightened security threats, civil unrest, and mass displacement are just the beginning. In fact, according to a report by the Institute for Economics and Peace, in 2021 alone, over 89 million people were forcibly displaced as a result of conflict, much of which can be traced back to underlying authoritarian governance structures. Moreover, how these emerging conflicts are framed will significantly shape international responses. If extremists are portrayed solely as threats, rather than as products of systemic failures, the opportunity for meaningful engagement diminishes. The cycle of violence will continue unbroken, narrowing the window for diplomatic resolutions and undermining movements advocating for democratic reforms (Lemon & Thibault, 2017; Lusoli & Ward, 2005).

As we analyze these potentialities, we must recognize that authoritarianism breeds conditions that not only facilitate the rise of extremism but also diminish the capacity for effective countermeasures. The lack of political diversity and the stifling of dissent stymie any constructive dialogues that might lead to solutions. In this environment, disillusionment helps normalize extremist attitudes, framing violence as the only viable pathway to effect change. Could it be that in the absence of positive political engagement, radicalization becomes an almost natural response to oppression?

The narrative surrounding these emerging conflicts will profoundly shape international policy. If extremists are classified solely as threats, rather than as products of systemic failures, we risk a blinkered response that overlooks the underlying dynamics of resentment, poverty, and injustice. This framing fails to address root causes and perpetuates a narrative where the cycle of violence is portrayed as inevitable, thereby reinforcing the very conditions that breed extremism. What if we shifted our focus from merely responding to threats to addressing the grievances that give rise to them?

What If Collective Action Ignites Change?

Conversely, if citizens rally to demand accountability and transparency from their governments, the potential for genuine political transformation emerges. Representative Crockett’s insights on the necessity of collective responsibility and activism could inspire a movement that transcends local borders. A resurgence in civic engagement, powered by grassroots activism and digital connectivity, offers a pathway to challenge entrenched power structures that have historically stifled change (Melucci, 1997; Loader et al., 2014).

This movement has the potential to facilitate collaborative efforts among diverse groups, including those within the Muslim community, to amplify voices marginalized by both authoritarian regimes and dominant narratives. By building coalitions that span cultural and religious divides, activists can work towards a shared vision of justice, equity, and human rights that resonates globally and can lead to significant political change.

However, such potential shifts are fraught with challenges. The resilience of entrenched interests—including powerful elites and multinational corporations—means that any push for change will likely encounter fierce resistance. Historical examples abound; for instance, the civil rights movement in the United States faced violent backlash from segregationists, yet ultimately led to landmark legislation and societal transformation. As authoritarian regimes consolidate power, they may escalate efforts to suppress dissent through surveillance, propaganda, and violence (Bornman et al., 2021). Yet, despite these obstacles, the latent capacity for collective action remains a potent force for change. The challenge lies in harnessing this potential and channeling it into a coherent movement capable of disrupting existing power dynamics.

If executed successfully, these efforts could reshape the political landscape, not only in the U.S. but also in regions battling for autonomy and representation, paving the way for a more equitable global order. The recognition of a shared human experience and mutual struggles can bridge divides, fostering a spirit of collaboration among those who seek justice and equity. How can we ensure that this emerging movement remains resilient against the tides of resistance, and what lessons from history can guide us in navigating this complex terrain?

Strategic Maneuvers: Actions for All Players

In this complex and volatile political environment, various actors—including governments, grassroots movements, and international organizations—must adopt strategic maneuvers to navigate turbulent waters. Much like sailors adjusting their sails in response to changing winds, these players must remain agile and responsive to the shifting dynamics of power and influence. For example, during the Arab Spring, grassroots movements effectively harnessed social media to amplify their messages and mobilize support, demonstrating how strategic adaptations can alter the course of political events. As we consider these maneuvers, one might ask: how can these actors not only survive but thrive in a landscape defined by uncertainty and rapid change?

Governments

For Western governments, the challenge lies in:

  • Reassessing foreign policies that prioritize short-term geopolitical interests over long-term stability and democratic values. This is reminiscent of the Cold War era, where interventions were often motivated by immediate strategic gains, ultimately leading to prolonged conflicts and instability in regions like Afghanistan and Vietnam.
  • Critically examining military interventions, as such actions often exacerbate underlying issues rather than resolve them (Maréchal, 2017; Erie, 2019). The U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 serves as a poignant example; rather than achieving lasting peace, it resulted in a power vacuum and the rise of extremist groups.
  • Prioritizing diplomatic engagement with an emphasis on human rights and socio-economic development. Consider the contrast between the Marshall Plan, which helped rebuild war-torn Europe through investment in infrastructure and human capital, and the more recent reliance on military solutions—one fosters long-term stability, the other often breeds resentment and instability.

Strategies to foster stability must include:

  • Investing in educational initiatives
  • Supporting healthcare
  • Promoting economic development that addresses root causes of discontent

Could it be that without addressing these foundational issues, we are merely putting a Band-Aid on deeper societal wounds?

Grassroots Movements

Grassroots movements are encouraged to focus on:

  • Coalition-building and expanding outreach efforts
  • Creating platforms that encourage dialogue among citizens from diverse backgrounds
  • Educational campaigns that empower individuals to actively participate in political processes (Stavrakakis & Katsambekis, 2014)

Just as the civil rights movement of the 1960s united individuals across racial lines to challenge systemic injustice, modern grassroots initiatives can leverage technology and social media to mobilize support. By sharing stories that challenge dominant discourses, these movements can widen the scope for collective action. Imagine the impact of a single tweet or viral video that resonates with thousands; it’s akin to dropping a small pebble into a pond, where the ripples extend far beyond the point of contact. How can we harness these digital tools to ensure that every voice, no matter how small, can contribute to the larger narrative of social change?

International Organizations and NGOs

International organizations and NGOs must:

  • Amplify the voices of oppressed communities, much like the way the civil rights movement in the United States utilized grassroots organizing to bring attention to racial injustices.
  • Provide platforms to articulate their needs and aspirations, akin to how early feminist movements used pamphlets and public demonstrations to highlight women’s rights and issues.
  • Invest in initiatives that promote grassroots advocacy, civic education, and capacity-building (Ambrosio, 2008; Lohr & Sanborn, 2017), paralleling the successful strategies of organizations like Amnesty International, which empowers local activists to champion human rights.

Partnerships between international bodies and local organizations can create synergies that enhance the effectiveness of efforts to combat oppression. What if these alliances could not only address immediate needs but also empower communities to lead the charge for lasting change?

Conclusion

As we navigate this increasingly polarized political landscape, the stakes are high. Collective action, informed dialogue, and strategic engagement are essential for countering authoritarianism and curbing the proliferation of extremism. History provides us with cautionary tales—such as the Civil Rights Movement, where collective action galvanized disparate groups into a powerful force for justice, illustrating how united efforts can dismantle deeply entrenched systems of oppression (King, 1963). Through concerted efforts from all sectors of society, there is potential for meaningful change within the U.S. and for fostering a broader global movement committed to justice and equity in the face of adversity.

In confronting the consequences of our choices—through the lens of faith or stark human experience—we are reminded that the path forward lies firmly in our collective hands. But are we prepared to seize this opportunity? Like a ship navigating through turbulent waters, we must harness the winds of unity and purpose, steering towards a horizon where democracy thrives and extremism is relegated to the past.

References

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