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    If You Don't Know, Now You Know - Militias in America | Wilmer Valderrama

    enOctober 15, 2020

    Podcast Summary

    • Building community connections brings hopeStrengthening relationships and working together can bring hope and fulfillment, even in uncertain times. Setting goals and staying patient can lead to meaningful experiences.

      Even in uncertain times, building and strengthening community connections can bring hope and prepare us for challenges. Neighbor to Neighbor, a California volunteer network, emphasizes the importance of connecting with neighbors and working together, whether it's in everyday life or during natural disasters. Meanwhile, there's also good news to be found in the world, such as the inspiring story of a Japanese tourist who waited patiently to visit Machu Picchu during the pandemic. These examples remind us that setting goals and staying patient can lead to fulfilling experiences, no matter the circumstances. Additionally, during these stressful times, taking a break to focus on positive news and engaging in thoughtful discussions, like on the Beyond the Arc NBA podcast, can provide valuable perspective and entertainment.

    • Finding Ways to Unwind and Connect with NaturePatience and relaxation are essential for well-being, discovered through various methods like cow hugging or simply taking a moment for oneself. Nature's wonders, like a bar-tailed godwit's migration, remind us of its incredible capabilities and importance to appreciate.

      Patience and relaxation are valuable in today's fast-paced world. Whether it's through cow hugging or simply taking a moment for oneself, finding ways to unwind and connect with nature can have profound effects. Additionally, the natural world continues to astound us with its wonders, such as the record-breaking journey of a bar-tailed godwit during migration. Despite the seemingly impossible feat, scientists are still baffled by how these birds navigate such long distances. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the incredible capabilities of nature and the importance of appreciating the world around us.

    • Unexpected opportunities and good news can come at any timeWin the Nobel Prize unexpectedly, adapt to film romantic scenes during social distancing, and build stronger communities through Neighbor to Neighbor

      Unexpected opportunities and good news can come at any time, even during the most unexpected hours. This was exemplified in the story of Paul Milgrom and Robert Wilson, who were woken up in the middle of the night to be informed that they had won the Nobel Prize. Another takeaway is the importance of perseverance and adaptability, as shown in the production of a soap opera that continued filming romantic scenes despite social distancing rules by using a mannequin instead of an actor. Lastly, the importance of community and connection was emphasized through the introduction of Neighbor to Neighbor, a California volunteers network that aims to help people build stronger communities.

    • Tensions and Extreme Measures During the PandemicInstead of resorting to dangerous or illegal activities, it's important to find healthy and productive ways to cope with stressors during the pandemic. Understanding the historical context and complexities surrounding militias in America is crucial, while supporting sustainable farming practices and enjoying the richness of food sources can bring joy.

      The ongoing pandemic has led to increased tensions and frustration, with some individuals taking extreme measures to express their discontent. For instance, in Michigan, a group of individuals were arrested for planning to kidnap the governor due to their anger over pandemic restrictions, specifically the closure of gyms. This incident highlights the importance of finding healthy and productive ways to cope with stressors, rather than resorting to dangerous or illegal activities. Meanwhile, the discussion also touched upon the history of militias in America, which dates back to the founding era when they were seen as a bulwark against tyranny. However, over time, the concept of militias has evolved, and today, there are concerns about the potential for armed militias to pose a threat to public safety and security. It's crucial to understand the historical context and the complexities surrounding militias in America, as well as the importance of promoting peaceful and constructive solutions to address societal challenges. In the realm of lighter topics, the discussion also emphasized the beauty and significance of California avocados, which are grown under ideal conditions and cared for by dedicated farmers. By supporting sustainable farming practices and enjoying the delicious fruits of their labor, we can appreciate the richness and diversity of our food sources.

    • Militias in American History: From Early Days to PresentMilitias, once a means for citizens to defend their country, have reemerged as armed paramilitary groups driven by conspiracy theories and fears of political change, posing a significant danger due to their militaristic structures and stockpiling of weapons.

      Militias have been a part of American history since its early days, serving as a means for citizens to defend their country. However, with the establishment of the National Guard and the folding of unorganized militias, they largely disappeared. In recent years, however, armed paramilitary groups have reemerged, driven in part by conspiracy theories and fears of a changing political landscape. These groups, while not official military organizations, act as if they are and pose a significant danger due to their militaristic structures and stockpiling of weapons. Their growth has been particularly notable during times of political change, such as the election of the first black president, Barack Obama. Despite their claims, many of these groups' motivations are rooted in racism and fear of cultural shifts.

    • Militias today are less organized but more dangerousMilitias today are driven by a warped sense of community and toxic masculinity, heavily armed, and pose a serious threat to public safety with their belief in an impending second civil war.

      The current militia groups, unlike their historical counterparts, are less organized but more heavily armed and have a dangerous ideology. They are motivated by a warped sense of community and toxic masculinity, and their actions pose a serious threat to public safety. Their belief in an impending second civil war, as evidenced by groups like the Boogaloo, is a dangerous and misguided notion that could lead to devastating consequences. It's important to acknowledge and address the underlying issues driving these groups, rather than just focusing on their outward actions. Instead of fostering a sense of community through violence, we should encourage peaceful alternatives, such as social gatherings or community service projects.

    • Building stronger connections amid uncertaintyDespite the challenges of disconnected communities and uncertain times, initiatives like Neighbor to Neighbor promote open dialogue and foster stronger connections between individuals. Political opinions among voters remain diverse, particularly regarding the upcoming US election, highlighting the importance of respecting differing perspectives.

      Despite the uncertain times and disconnected communities, there are initiatives like Neighbor to Neighbor that aim to build stronger connections between individuals. Meanwhile, in the political sphere, the divide among voters, particularly on the issue of the upcoming US election, remains stark. During a conversation with a group of black voters in Atlanta, Roy Wood Junior discovered varying opinions, with some expressing their intention to vote for Joe Biden, while others remained committed to Donald Trump, regardless of the challenges faced by the black community this year. Chris, one of the panel members, maintained his support for Trump and dismissed concerns about the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on black people. Overall, the discussion underscores the importance of open dialogue and the diverse perspectives that exist within communities.

    • Recognizing shared experiences and working together for changeCOVID-19 is a threat, everyone's vote matters, especially for historically disenfranchised communities, and unity and civic engagement are crucial for positive change.

      Despite the divisive issues and challenges faced in the United States during 2020, there are some fundamental agreements that can be found among people. COVID-19 is a real threat, and everyone's vote counts, especially for the African American community who have historically felt disenfranchised. The election of Joe Biden could mark a significant change. It's important to acknowledge the personal losses and struggles caused by the pandemic, while also recognizing the importance of unity and civic engagement. The speakers in this conversation emphasized the importance of staying true to one's word, being true to who you are, and encouraging everyone to get involved and vote. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the importance of recognizing our shared experiences and working together to create positive change.

    • Building strong community connectionsBuying a house for mom next door brings growth and comfort, MTV's Challenge podcast offers excitement, opportunities to connect and grow exist in community involvement and engaging media.

      Building strong community connections, whether through helping neighbors or spending quality time with family, can bring about growth and comfort, especially during challenging times. Wilma Valderrama's decision to buy her mom a house next door serves as a powerful example of this. Meanwhile, on a lighter note, the return of MTV's Challenge podcast promises excitement and entertainment for all. In essence, whether it's through community involvement or engaging media, there are opportunities to connect and grow. For more information on building a more connected community, visit visitcaneighbors.com.

    • Amplifying Essential Workers and Marginalized CommunitiesDuring crises, it's crucial to uplift and acknowledge essential workers and marginalized groups. Platforms like Instagram can be used to share their stories and encourage community involvement, such as voting.

      During challenging times, it's essential to recognize and amplify the voices of essential workers and marginalized communities. Wilma Valderrama shared her experience of realizing the importance of this during the pandemic when she noticed the impact on essential workers, who were often invisible to customers. She used her Instagram platform to showcase their stories through a series called "6 feet apart." Another initiative, "Get Out and Get Counted" with America Ferrera, focuses on increasing awareness and self-awareness within the Latino community, encouraging them to register to vote and take an active role in defining their lives. Valderrama emphasized the need for immigrants to recognize their vital presence in the country and to claim their seat at the table.

    • Understanding Our Size and Diversity for ImpactRecognize the power of our numbers and demand a seat at the table for Latino representation. Exercise your right to vote and make a difference.

      Understanding the size and diversity of our communities is crucial for making our voices heard and advocating for our needs. This is particularly important now, as there are critical moments happening in various states where the Latino community's representation at the table can make a significant impact. Self-awareness, self-importance, and recognizing the power of our numbers are essential for us to take advantage of this moment and demand a seat at the table. It's time for us to celebrate, be counted, and stand up to make a difference. If you're registered to vote, make sure to exercise your right by checking your early voting options at vote.gov. Stay safe, wear a mask, and let's work on reducing anger in our hearts instead of in the world. Tune in to The Daily Show with Trevor Noah for more insightful discussions.

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