Why we do it:

Fascism trains us to comply. It starts subtly, with social pressure to peel your Kamala bumper sticker off, or with a prayer at the beginning of the school board meeting. You might not even notice some of the ways you’re tasked to conform, if conforming is your natural state.

In a year that bumper sticker is getting you pulled over more often than you’re used to. The school board is discussing a new dress code for female students — and defining “female.”

To make it visible, we practice standing out. We practice bravery by stepping outside our comfort zone. Courage is doing something even though you’re afraid. It is built through practice and discipline. The more often you face your fears, the less power they will hold and the stronger you will be.

Start where you are. If you choose shoes carefully, wear shoes so wrong you’re sure nobody can see anything but your feet. If public speaking terrifies you, attend a meeting and speak on an entirely neutral topic. Keep doing it even if your voice shakes. If you’re afraid of heights, find a Starbucks in a tall building and look out the windows.

Stretch your boundaries and practice your fearlessness. They’re following a well-worn rulebook for implementing fascism. Don’t give them an inch.