10 Ways to Resist Tyranny in the U.S. Right Now
If you’re feeling like democracy is on shaky ground, you’re not alone. With attacks on voting rights, rampant misinformation, and rising authoritarian tendencies, it’s more important than ever to stand up and push back. The good news? There are plenty of ways to resist. Here are ten things you can do right now to help protect democracy and fight back against tyranny.
1. Defend Democratic Institutions
Democracy isn’t just about elections—it relies on a free press, independent courts, and strong public institutions. Support local journalism, pay attention to school board elections, and call out attacks on institutions meant to protect our rights.
đź”— Carnegie Corporation: Twenty Lessons on Fighting Tyranny
2. Support a Real Multiparty System
The U.S. political system is dominated by two parties, but that doesn’t mean we have to accept the status quo. Push for reforms like ranked-choice voting and fair redistricting to make elections more competitive and representative.
đź”— Carnegie Corporation: Twenty Lessons on Fighting Tyranny
3. Stick to Your Ethics—Especially at Work
Whether you’re a journalist, lawyer, teacher, or just someone trying to do the right thing, don’t let corruption or political pressure sway you. History shows that authoritarianism thrives when people look the other way. Stay true to your values.
đź”— Timothy Snyder: On Tyranny
4. Watch Out for Armed Extremists
One of the biggest warning signs of authoritarianism is when militias and paramilitary groups start operating openly. If you see extremist groups trying to intimidate people or normalize violence, report them and support organizations that track and expose them.
đź”— Timothy Snyder: On Tyranny
5. Stand Up for Marginalized Communities
Authoritarians always target the most vulnerable first—immigrants, LGBTQ+ folks, racial minorities, and the poor. If we don’t stand up for them now, no one will be left to stand up when they come for us. Support groups doing the work.
đź”— The Guardian: What to Do If Trump Returns to Power
6. Pay Attention to Local Elections
Governors, mayors, and state legislators have a lot of power to push back against federal overreach. Don’t just focus on national politics—vote in every single election and support candidates who fight for democracy.
đź”— The Guardian: What to Do If Trump Returns to Power
7. Use Your Wallet as a Weapon
Corporations care about their bottom line. If a company is supporting authoritarian politicians or policies, stop giving them your money. Look up which companies donate to anti-democratic candidates and take your business elsewhere.
đź”— The Guardian: What to Do If Trump Returns to Power
8. Fund the Fight in the Courts
Legal battles are one of the most effective ways to stop unconstitutional laws. Groups like the ACLU, NAACP, and SPLC take these fights to court, but they need funding. If you can’t donate, spread the word.
đź”— The Guardian: What to Do If Trump Returns to Power
9. Fight Misinformation
Disinformation is one of the biggest threats to democracy. Before sharing something online, fact-check it. Support independent journalism. Have those hard conversations with friends and family who’ve fallen into conspiracy rabbit holes.
đź”— The Guardian: What to Do If Trump Returns to Power
10. Protest, Strike, and Take Action
When politicians cross the line, people have to push back. Protest, call your representatives, and get involved in direct action. If you don’t know where to start, Revolution2025.info is your one-stop shop for finding protests, organizing tools, and calls to action.
Resisting tyranny isn’t just about one big moment—it’s about constant engagement. Every conversation, every vote, every dollar you spend matters. The future of democracy is in our hands. Let’s make sure we don’t let it slip away.
