Courage

By Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.)
TriceEdneyWire.com Columnist

War is inhumane! War is madness! In a world of rational thinkers, war should be unnecessary! Historically, war has been the exercise of national power, authority, and autonomy in the circumstance of irreconcilable difference – or the reaction to it. As with many other past conflicts, the world’s current war is the result of an irreconcilable difference conceived in the mind of an ego-stricken madman – Putin.

Had events progressed according to the machinations of his malignant mind, on this day, one year after an unnecessary invasion, Ukraine would be under the singular control of Dictator Putin. I applaud the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people and their president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in their destruction of his dystopian plans. Some might suggest that a published opinion on such a “world matter” takes me “out of my lane,” but, in my spirit and evolution of mind, I am a kindred spirit with anyone or any group opposing oppression.

In every conflict, we are presented the opportunity to witness individual acts of courage. In what some would consider a surprise, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a former comedian and actor, has risen to the challenge of serving as an effective wartime president. Initially presumed to be weak and feckless, Zelenskyy has demonstrated a measure of tenacity, moral, and physical courage unequaled in many years.

Others like members of the press, Richard Engel and MSNBC’S Ali Velshi have to be named heroes for their bravery in bringing us the news from Ukraine. In our list of heroes, we must give praise to Chef Jose Andres and his organization which works in/near battle zones to nourish hungry Ukrainians.

We must also thank Poland and other regional nations for providing material support and a haven for displaced Ukrainians. Our thanks extend to NATO for standing in the breach against further illegal incursions.

In contrast, following the lead of their fearless leader, Trump, many Republicans are calling for a desertion of efforts to support Ukraine’s righteous effort for sovereignty. Whether this betrayal of morality is motivated by the opportunity for personal enrichment or a full-blown acceptance of autocracy, it suggests nothing good. I am reminded that when we arose to fight racism and corruption, we were labeled Communists! Is it not now appropriate to, likewise, label the MAGA crowd as communists who support the enemy of a democratic Ukraine?

Despite Putin’s monumental miscalculation, the estimated loss of 8 to 10 thousand Russian soldiers per day, a disrupted economy, and the loss of stature on the world stage, Russia continues to exercise ‘state terrorism.’

But…babies continue to be born. The spirit of resistance and resilience still flourishes. President Zelenskyy still serves as a beacon of courage and perseverance. Unlike truly feckless leaders, Zelenskyy has stayed with his people. Under the threat of personal harm, he did not flee his country, as other leaders have done when believing their lives to be in danger. He has given his people reason to believe their often-quoted optimism of a victorious and free Ukraine.

Lastly, I take great personal pride in the courage demonstrated by President Biden. In the face of controversy and criticism, he has been steadfast in his support of Ukraine and his efforts in holding together the international coalition of support for Ukraine. I am even more impressed with his courage and fortitude in making the dangerous 20-hour round-trip by train to Kyiv to demonstrate his resolve to the Ukrainian people and supporters of their War effort.

Let us pray for peace in the world. Let us pray for reason to prevail. In the face of mass devastation, let us pray for healing. And we must pray for the Russian people who must endure this maniac who calls himself their president.

Dr. E. Faye Williams is President of The Dick Gregory Society (thedickgregorysociety.org; drefayewilliams@gmail.com) and President Emerita of the National Congress of Black Women.

This article originally published in the March 6, 2023 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.