I remember the tragic and shocking events of 1963 and ensuing years well. And I have been inspired in many ways by the collective shifts in consciousness that we experienced (and helped create) in the 1960s and '70s.

One of the principal projects of the American right wing for many years has been to trivialize and eradicate the spirit of the 1960s: equality for all, a giant fuck-you to the U.S. Wehrmacht, free love, consideration of alternate philosophies and political systems, priority of the natural and the human over commerce -- in short, a general willingness to try new ways of living and thinking.

The Right fears equality, worships American military dominance, detests free love in any form, requires conformity, and values commerce above all. We will continue to reject their ugly and barren worldview.

As I get older and more independent, I'm more willing than ever to challenge the status quo. I look forward to joining with my peers and anybody else who's up for the fight for a world that's more just, verdant, interesting, and nurturing.