by Bill Magargal
Note: The opinions in this article are the author’s only and have not been discussed by the board. Please leave comments to share your thoughts.
During the past year, I have actively expressed my concern about the the U.S. decline into authoritarianism. I’ve participated in marches, stayed informed, contacted local representatives, and struggled with persistent anxiety about the country’s direction. Reflecting on history, I now understand how ordinary people in Germany could have witnessed the rise of fascism in the thirties without stopping it—the feeling of helplessness is real, and today’s events feel eerily familiar. As Yogi Berra said, “It’s Deja vu all over again.”
We are witnessing the resurgence of figures who promote authoritarian agendas and undermine democracy. As I watch this unfold, my emotions range from anger to hopelessness. I also feel chagrin for not doing more, for not standing up in ways that make a significant difference. I hope for leadership that can guide us out of this crisis, and I look to the upcoming midterm elections as a potential turning point. Yet I worry that these elections could be postponed or their results overturned.
Despite uncertainty, I remain hopeful that we can preserve our democracy. Organizations like Servas, founded on peace and humanitarian values, must move beyond passive concern. We need to transform hope into action, calling for leadership and cooperation to protect the peace and prosperity we’ve enjoyed for decades. Even though the future is uncertain, I believe collective action can make a difference.
It is time for US Servas to act. I know we have never directly engaged in political activism, but I believe this must change. Our leadership should issue a call to action to preserve our democracy and a world order based on laws and international cooperation, which has sustained eighty years of relative peace and thriving economies. I propose establishing and empowering a team of our Peace Secretary and board, and other interested members to address these challenges.
This panel could, among other things, do the following:
- Develop a formal statement to acknowledge that the current administration is systematically dismantling our laws and democratic order and confirm that this is a real and present threat to US and world peace.
- Use the 2026 National Conference as a platform to develop ideas and recommendations for member empowerment, including:
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- Identify and vet activist peace groups aligned with our values and encourage Servas member involvement in these groups
- Develop an action and preparedness guide so that members can act effectively to protect neighbors from harassment and seizure by ICE or other agents.
- Post regular updates on our website about upcoming initiatives
I am sure there is much more that can and should be done. Let this be a starting point.
