To Coup or Not Coup? That is the Question

By E. Jane Middleton, MSW, DSW
Emeritus – Chair/Professor
CSU Fresno – Social Work
NASW, Vice President
NASW CA Chapter, former President

Have you considered lately what is happening in the United States? Why have we become so dysfunctional? Many have blamed it on the current administration, even more have blamed the Congress and those who align with very conservative ideology as it relates to what this country stands for.

Founded as an independent union in the late 1770s, defined as a democratic republic this nation has had scores of disagreements over the direction we should take. Even at its inception the ‘founding fathers’ recognized that it was important that the newly founded nation remain — united. They recognized the importance of compromise in the legislative process and in some ways help preserve these United States of America.

The foundational concepts embedded in the Constitution called for the three branches of government as a means of balancing the inherent destructive nature of power. Certainly, I, as one who was considered less than a full person might take issue with that premise, but what would be the use. Nevertheless, there has been a process for change: it’s called the vote and elections. Even now as people, perhaps of good will, who no longer see the fragility of the vote and determine there is no longer a need to protect (for all) that precious right, we undermine the very essence of who and what we are.

I would venture to say something quite different is happening in America today. And I ponder if we are, in fact, in the middle of a coup. Coups are described as ‘sudden’; what I observe now in our country is a slow death to the electoral process and a slow, well thought-out coup. The total undermining of the grand design for America is in play. This plan has been in the works since 2008 when our first president identified as African American entered the White House. Interestingly enough he is equally white, genetically speaking — only the hue of his skin gives him away.

The behaviors engaged in by many in power have undermined the country. There has not in recent memory been any President who has been so overtly disrespected. The interesting thing to note is that the precedent has now been set and unfortunately the future will no doubt hold more of the same for anyone who occupies the office. We are in fact acting as our own worst enemy. Is it possible to return to some modicum of civility or is this our future?