In this episode, we examine the first leaflet distributed by Sophie and Hans Scholl and the White Rose resistance movement in Nazi Germany (summer 1942). We read the complete text of Leaflet #1 and explore what their call for moral awakening and passive resistance can teach us about fighting authoritarianism today.

What You'll Learn:

• Full reading and analysis of the White Rose's first leaflet
• Why the Scholls appealed to morality rather than criticizing specific policies
• Practical local activism: city council meetings, school boards, neighborhood organizing, state legislature tracking
• How passive resistance works: boycotts, economic pressure, supporting targeted communities
• The real costs of activism and why it's worth it anyway
• Using art and culture as forms of resistance

Practical Actions Discussed:Attend city council meetings regularly, learn procedural rules, join your school board, create neighborhood phone trees, track state legislation, organize constituent meetings, support civil liberties organizations, divest from oppressive institutions, and use your voice wherever you can.

The episode emphasizes that resistance often starts with small, local actions rather than grand gestures. Sophie and Hans Scholl risked everything to distribute just 100 flyers—and their courage still echoes 80 years later.

Recorded October 1, 2025 during a U.S. government shutdown.

This podcast presents a specific political perspective on contemporary American politics and draws historical parallels to authoritarian regimes.