I’m aggregating as much meaningful advice as possible for our times. Authoritarianism is a political system characterized by rejecting political plurality, using strong central power to preserve the political status quo, and reductions in democracy, separation of powers, civil liberties, and the rule of law.
Before we can fight, it’s crucial to protect yourself. The Blue List is meant to raise your awareness. You will need to figure out what works for you.
This is meant to be a crowdsourced activity. If you find something, send it to me via Bluesky or email. I’ll vet the source and post it. Thank you.
Here’s what’s new as of 12/10/24…
Federal employees are encouraged to ensure their union membership is in good standing. They’re ready to fight. AFGE >
Get help understanding why your medical claim was denied. A primer from ProPublica >
Wired’s Guide to Protecting Yourself from Government Surveillance. This is where we are now. Wired >
Seven ways a Trump administration could affect our finances. This is still an early take, but it is worthy of reviewing. CNNBusiness >
Abortion
Abortion care via Safe Choice provides pregnant women with options. Safe Choice >
Immigration
Utah immigrant advocates are hosting ‘Know Your Rights’ sessions in Utah, answering tough questions. KCL Broadcasting >
Critical legal information on “denaturalization and revocation of naturalization” National Immigration Project >
LGBTQ+
GLAAD focuses on Keeping LGBTQ Families Safe: Recommendations and Best Practices GLAAD >
LGBTQ+ actions for protecting yourself. Act now. Doing everything possible to have your affairs in order is super important. Giampolo Law Group >
Legal
Be prepared with proof. Update and know where your ID, passport, and proof of legal decisions are organized (divorce, name change, gender change, immigration status, marriage, adoptions, etc.). We may need to prove many things. LiveStrong >
Money
Make big purchases before tariffs hit. Use holiday sales to get cars, appliances, tech, and anything tariffed as prices are expected to soar. This includes construction. NBC News >
Identify your state relationships. These programs are likely safe (for now) for states with Democratic governors. This is what happened last time (this was a test; it will be much worse). Center on Budget and Policy Priorities >
Social Security, Medicare, and veteran benefits are all at risk. We will potentially have a huge cohort of people who worked hard all their lives without a plan. Kiplinger >
Leave crypto alone. Unless you’re incredibly wealthy, we’re not who they want at their party. Seriously. The Conversation >
Relationships
Slow down and listen. Kids have some big fears, and bullying has already started. Christian Science Monitor >
Come together, don’t let folks isolate. Invite friends over; leave the house. NAMI >
Veterans
Get your VA appointments and vaccines now. VA Healthcare will likely be a hot mess. Mueller, She Wrote >