People we meet Hans Kolbe asks how Noe Valley can resist threats to democracy

Over three dozen participants dressed in black convened at Noe Valley Ministry to lament the erosion of justice in the U. S. , inspired by silent protests against judicial repression in Poland. The event featured a panel discussion with judges and an attorney, who addressed the critical need for public trust in the judiciary. Retired judge Michael Begert warned that a loss of credibility among judges could lead to dangerous outcomes, while Kolbe emphasized the chilling effects of political intimidation.

Drawing from his experiences in post-war Germany, Kolbe cautioned that the first step toward authoritarianism often involves intimidation. The gathering sought to ignite meaningful conversations about civic responsibility and activism in the community. Kolbe's remarks underscored the urgency for innovative strategies to engage younger generations in political matters. He humorously suggested that entertainment could be a way to attract youth to activism. The event was part of a broader initiative aimed at educating the public on threats to democracy.