2017: The Year Statism Starts to Die

2016 was largely a year of confusion around the globe. It was a year in which the deadly horrors of statism were on full display, yet most people misidentified them and instead blamed immigrants, refugees, and anarchists for these statist evils. It was a year in which the pursuit of peaceful coexistence took a backseat to nationalism, fascism, and protectionism. 2017 does not appear likely to be an improvement. From the US to the Philippines to England to Germany to Israel, the ugliness is only getting worse. Violence against innocent people is on the rise as states encourage ‘patriotic’ collectivist thinking to provide cover for the crimes being perpetrated against those who do not bow down before the state.

It is in the face of these obstacles that we must continue to advocate peace and freedom for all. We are the few standing up against the state and its legions of foolish supporters. They will try to shout us down; they will attempt to silence us. They will happily use violence to rob us, kidnap us, and even kill us. It would be easier to remain silent in the face of this nearly overwhelming opposition, but such a path is not an option because the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.

2017 could be a turning point. It could be the year in which mankind begins to recognize its enemy the state and to free itself from the chains of illegitimate authority which have for so long held it down. It could also be the year in which the darkness spreads across the globe like a suffocating cloud of violence and hate. The year in which the chains of nationalism and tribalism are forged ever stronger.

In 2017, it is more important than ever to take a stand against collectivism and the hate it inspires. Don’t be silent. Don’t be part of the problem. Raise your voice and let the whole world hear you say—in blatant defiance of the state—that peace is possible, war is unnecessary, and liberty is achievable. Let’s make 2017 the year statism starts to die. Let’s save humanity while we still have a chance.