In the Greek story of Lysistrata, women decide to deny marital relations and block military funding to get their husbands to stop their endless warring. I’m not suggesting these specific actions, but it is time for women to take “arms” against this current sea of troubles. Elizabeth Kei fer Too many of us have experienced frustration watching just a few bad men (along with some “pick me” women) trading what peace and order we had (never perfect) for cruelty and chaos.  We stand on the sidelines, traditionally barred from enough power to effect change. So, it’s time to use some new strategies, flexing our arms to force those in power to see what we can do as a sisterhood. One of the most impactful actions is making our feelings known to those we love.  In Lysistrata, the Athenian and Spartan women are clear with their husbands that their continued warring will be met with resistance, and although it is difficult, the women not only band together for this plan but also outlast their husbands’ objections. A more modern way of communicating your resistance is to have discussions with those who support what is happening to our country.  Come armed with facts and other strong arguments.  Make it clear that you care very much about your loved ones, but it isn’t just about politics —it’s about morality and ethics. For those who won’t be swayed, you can choose to limit your contact or perhaps put them in a timeout until sanity has returned.  It’s not about punishing them, but rather it’s letting them know how important issues like climate change, racism, sexism, homophobia, health care, education, international diplomacy, etc. are to you. Another way we can consolidate power is to stop infighting.  United we stand, divided we fall —right?  If women of different ages and ethnic backgrounds can stand together against the regime that is diminishing our democracy, the more they will have to listen.  There are somewhere between 3 and 3.5 million more women in this country than men, so we are a force to be reckoned with if we put aside superficial differences. There are democracy groups like Red Wine Blue who say, on their website, that they are a “sisterhood of diverse communities working to change the world together.  We help you make meaningful connections, organize in your community, and become more effective than you ever imagined.”  This is a great opportunity to be a part of a group of like-minded women using community to build power for peace. “Democracy is not a spectator sport” is attributed to Lotte Scharfman, who was the President of the League of Women Voters back in 1969.  We can’t sit in the bleachers anymore, lamenting that men run the world.  If we decide to help run the world—alongside wonderful men who also care about the same issues—we can do it. There are so many ways that we can show up for those who are suffering, or who will be.  Strong and compassionate women need to find ways to be active participants in creating a better world for everyone.  Let’s go! Elizabeth Keifer lives in West Hartford.   ...read more read less