If you think of it, conventions are actually very fragile things. You say such and such thing is "unconceivable here", "it can't happen here". And so it is until bold action shatters the convention, breaks the borders, creates a new reality. This is usually achieved by activists and extremists either on the progressive or the reactionary side of politics. Well, guess which side has been active lately? Guess which actions and thoughts have become commonplace lately? "What happens at Gitmo, stays at Gitmo". And we thought it couldn't happen here, not by us. That it would be inconceivable here.
I speak broadly here, not being a US citizen, but this is done in the name of Western Civilization, in the name of the American Republic (you know the one based on ideas of the rule of law, liberty, fairness and grave suspicion of absolute power). This administration uses fear knowingly and is deliberately basing its actions on the shameless manipulation of it: it is busily breaking boundaries, shattering conventions. It is happening and it is happening here and it is happening in our name. The worst are full of passionate intensity: they must be stopped before it becomes too late. The politicians, the media, the citizens must find their integrity again. We must not lose the truth, we must not let everything become corrupt. This is a time for action, of defense of our liberties, our law, our humanity. Enlightenment is under a ferocious, fanatical attack - it must be defended at all costs.