At the beginning of 2025, we saw a drastic switch in policy and national attitude. As expected with the inauguration of a new president, we were attempting to adjust. As the changes became more intense, I found myself participating where I could. I attended a protest at the capitol building in Little Rock, AR. This event was opposing the increase in deportations and lack of due process that has emerged.

While there were plenty of people there in support of the message we were trying to get across, there were also many people there to show that they do not believe our concern is warranted. I was as gentle as possible, but I would be lying if I said I was not angry.

I saw an opportunity here, not for judgement, but for the goal of education and understanding. I decided to share the story of Henry Weil, a Holocaust survivor I have had the honor of interviewing.

I told Henry’s story of miraculous survival. The incredible coincidences and luck necessary to survive. I briefly told the stories of the other survivors I had met. How not a single one of them is small, even though they start that way.

The circumstances today are not where they were in 1940, yet. It is often forgotten that the descent into corruption is gradual. It is not enacted in a day, and we must learn to identify the signs of danger before they are here.

Many people in the crowd believed we may be victims of confirmation bias. The denial of severity is not new. Henry’s mother refused to leave their home in Austria until the moment the SS knocked on their door.

It is good we stay objective, but I believe the people who have lived the rest of their lives after this horrendous event. When they tell me they feel a familiarity, I am going to honor their experience every time.

I am unsure of the impact of my talk. I would like to believe I brought some tolerance, patience, and understanding to somebody that day.