In God's country

the long version

Rather than Simply Demonizing or directing outrage at self-proclaimed "Patriot" and militia organizations, which is often the approach of those who oppose them, David Neiwert allows Patriot extremists to speak for themselves and largely on their terms. His critical journalistic dialogue allows us to better understand the socioeconomic and philosophical/religious complexities of how and why these people have come to think the way they do. There is little question that strains of racism, paranoia and ill will characterize much of their behavior, but it is equally true that Patriots - often blue collar people, and economically and socially challenged by rural decay - are desperately responding to feelings of being marginalized and disenfranchised, from the American dream. Neiwert's grand overview describes the wide range of Patriot organizations and beliefs found in Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon today. He presents a case for maintaining a dialogue with Patriot believers, because these people are our neighbors, relatives and fellow citizens, and they are here to stay.