It’s okay to belong to a group—but when you convince yourself that your side is incapable of harm, you set yourself up for betrayal and become part
It’s okay to belong to a group—but when you convince yourself that your side is incapable of harm, you set yourself up for betrayal and become part of the problem.
We need to stop pretending that harm only comes from the “other side.”
Political parties are comprised of human beings. I do not believe that any one party, faith, or ideology holds a monopoly on harming—or protecting—children. Both are equally capable of harm. Both are equally capable of doing good. Life and my many years of work has firmly taught me that.
It’s okay to belong somewhere. To hold values. To stand with a community. I do all of these things.
But the danger comes when we cling so tightly that we blind ourselves to reality.
When you allow yourself to believe that your group is incapable of harming children, you:
Leave yourself open to betrayal. (“I had no idea“…..With grace, ask yourself what red flags you chose to ignore.)
Become part of the very problem you swore to stand against.
- Leave yourself open to looking foolish.
- Run the risk of losing yourself.
Children’s safety cannot be partisan. Their safety cannot be ideological. Their protection cannot be reserved for one group while excusing another.
The moment we start believing harm only comes from “the other side” is the moment predators know they have cover on our side. That’s how abuse continues, unchecked.
Predators are really like little insects. They run for cover wherever they can find it.
Real vigilance means refusing to give anyone a free pass. Refusing to give anyone cover or refuge. It means keeping our eyes open—no matter what label, belief, or position someone wears.
Because children’s lives matter more than allegiance. Always.