The article highlights the concerns of four immigrants from communist or authoritarian countries who fear the US is drifting toward authoritarianism. They cite examples such as cancel culture, censorship, and the rising popularity of socialist ideas among young Americans as warning signs.
Amy Phan West, a Vietnamese immigrant, recounts her family's escape from communist Vietnam, where they faced brutality and oppression. She expresses alarm at the perceived censorship and the rise of socialist policies in the US, believing it mirrors the beginnings of communism in her homeland. She is even running for Congress to combat this trend.
Samuel Chu, from Hong Kong, shares his family's history of activism against authoritarian rule and his own experiences with Chinese influence impacting free speech in the US. He points to examples in Hollywood and the NBA where businesses have self-censored to appease China, fearing economic repercussions.
Justo Triana, a Cuban immigrant, contrasts his experiences of scarcity and repression in Cuba with his observations of American students embracing socialist ideas without fully understanding the historical context. He worries about the future if this trend continues.
Konstantin, a Russian immigrant, describes his life in the Soviet Union and his subsequent escape to the US. He now fears a creeping authoritarianism in the US, citing limitations on free speech and the potential for economic reprisal for dissenting opinions.
The central argument is that the experiences of these immigrants serve as a cautionary tale, urging Americans to be vigilant against threats to their freedoms. The authors emphasizes the importance of listening to those who have lived under authoritarian regimes and understanding the potential consequences of policies that erode democratic values.