Shawn Dannen
Jul 28, 2017 · 2 min read

As an avid reader of your articles and those from Counterpunch, I still can’t believe that they’re assassinating your character like this. When I read the article that started all of this, your intent was clearly stated. Controversial references aside, you said in no uncertain terms that collaborating across ideological lines should be done with discretion. They’ve continued to misrepresent what you’ve said without once acknowledging the rest of the article. Cherry-picking with the intent to smear can be expected from elements of the Fox News and CNN/MSDNC crowd, but it’s surprising to see it coming from those that view themselves as arbiters of the “left” like the contributors at Counterpunch.

Do any of these people actually talk to anyone on the right or just at them? Are they so immersed in their echo chambers that they can’t see beyond the caricatures created by their factions? I might be different since I was raised conservative and moved to the Progressive left as time went on. I can still see the right as people. Most of my family back home voted for Trump. Many of my neighbors did as well. These aren’t racist misogynists intent on regressing to the “good old days”. They’re good people that had valid reasons to distrust the Neoliberal Democrats after enduring broken promises, deceptive media attacks painting them as monsters, and a rapidly depreciating quality of life.

I’m no writer, but the point that I’m trying to make is that you’ve been heard. I don’t always agree with your points, but I do think you make an honest effort to make compelling arguments that need to be discussed. You’re often working against accepted narratives, shouting truths into the intellectual wilderness that is quickly defining our society on both sides. I’ve taken what you wrote about collaborating to heart and I’ve made sincere efforts to engage in civil discourse with those that have differing ideologies. I’ve been talking to my family and neighbors as actual people, not the polarized definitions of what they’re supposed to be that have been created by those on the left with an agenda. By acknowledging our differences of opinion while seeking common ground on issues that affect us all, I believe that I’ve made some headway. They’ve been receptive to having someone from the “other side” respectfully discussing how the divisions of left vs right aren’t as significant as the persistent bipartisan stratification created by class warfare. Across the spectrum, if we’re not a corporation or wealthy elite then we’re all victims.

I’m normally a stalker, preferring to read the articles and comments without engaging in the narcissistic banter that ensues afterwards. I created an account just to let you know that you’re not alone. We need more bold truth-tellers like you. Even if you’re wrong about some things, at least you have the courage to challenge the status quo. Hang in there, Caity. When you shine a light on corruption and hypocrisy, you’re bound to make enemies.

    Shawn Dannen

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