Nonconformity

Each of us is a unique human being. No two human beings, even identical twins, are exactly alike. Each of us is blessed with a conscience and the ability to speak for ourselves.

While America is a democracy where there is majority rule, history shows that the majority does not always have it right. Indeed, our Founding Fathers were definitively in the minority.

Non-conformity, including the right of protest, has been essential to progress in our country. It was non-conformity that resulted in universal suffrage, the abolition of Jim Crow laws and brought an end to the War in Vietnam.

As unique individuals, we have every right to voice our opinion before the final vote is cast, and we have every right to protest even after the majority has ruled.

Non-conformity is not only a right, it is an obligation when the majority rule results in injustice. Our sense of justice should be at the very heart of who we are as humans, meaning when justice is not being served under the status quo, our ability to protest and be non-conformist should be at our essence.

Each of us only has limited ability to effectuate change, but history is replete with examples of how dissenters joining together can make remarkable things happen.

Discussion

• Were you ever part of a dissenting group?

• What action did you take and what was the result?