Many of us remember a time when friendships transcended political differences. Since 2016, however, the political landscape has become so polarized that Americans are now divided into two groups: Democrats and anyone who isn't a Democrat. We as Libertarians, although quite distinct from Republicans, find ourselves lumped into the latter category. For clarity’s sake, I use “we” and “us” to include anyone that isn’t a Democrat, liberal, or leftist. We’re a broad group with some very different beliefs and values, but we’re all included in that “not a Democrat” bucket.

Since the assassination attempt on Donald Trump last week, we've witnessed a disturbing new trend. Conservatives, angered by the ill wishes directed at Trump, are retaliating online against those who expressed hateful sentiments. But revenge is not the answer. It perpetuates a toxic cycle where the pendulum swings back and forth, both sides inflicting harm on one another when it’s their turn. It swung far to the left during COVID, with so many who didn’t agree with the narrative finding themselves banned from social media, or even fired from their jobs for their social media posts. And now it seems to be swinging the other way.

But if this hateful behavior is continued by us, when the pendulum inevitably swings back the other way, Democrats will relish in canceling us again. That's why we should do all we can to stop it right now, making cancel culture a distant memory. We should resist the temptation to retaliate and treat others as savagely as they have treated us. Yes, revenge may seem gratifying and perhaps even warranted, but it is ultimately an empty and destructive act. Instead, we should rise above and stop this harmful tactic in its tracks.

One account I've followed and enjoyed for some time, @LibsOfTikTok, has recently been encouraging their followers to cancel individuals who wished harm upon Trump. They have also celebrated when these individuals lose their jobs. But this approach is incredibly toxic. It is not a victory to see an elderly cashier fired or a family provider lose their livelihood. Such actions hurt not only the individuals but also their families too.

This newfound joy that so many conservatives are finding in canceling others is quite alarming. It undermines the very essence of the First Amendment. While we may not like what others say, they have the right to say it. Engaging in cancel culture erodes this fundamental freedom and fuels further division.

By indulging in cancel culture, it's easy to forget the humanity of those we target. Each act of cancellation has a ripple effect, causing unnecessary suffering and increasing animosity. When we engage in this behavior at scale, as @LibsOfTikTok has done, we rapidly deepen societal divisions.

Freedom-lovers should stand against doxxing and canceling those with differing opinions. These tactics erode the First Amendment and are tactics often used by those we oppose. We should strive to be better.

Now is the time to come together and end cancel culture. This toxic practice is unsustainable and divisive. We must establish new norms and rules that protect free speech for everyone, regardless of political affiliation. Pursuing vengeance now only means the cycle will continue, with each side seeking revenge when in power. This path leads to further authoritarianism and division. Instead, let us take the higher road.

We have the chance to end cancel culture and protect our freedom of speech, one of our most sacred rights. Let us seize this opportunity to rise above revenge and build a more compassionate and understanding society. By doing so, we can create a kinder and better future for generations to come.