Principled Leftist Rules of Engagement
The following is a working draft. The words and specific phrases may change over time, but the underlying message will not: revolution is not just about changing systems, it’s about changing how we treat one another. The revolution must be a revolution in all ways, not just fighting power. It must be challenging ourselves to do and be better.
As the world becomes more violent and inhospitable toward people of left leaning ideologies, and as more new people join the cause of revolution and liberation, it becomes important to codify some rules regarding force and engagement, lest we repeat the terror inflicted in prior revolutions.
It is important to engage with our enemies while not sacrificing leftist principles. We do not, and should not, accept violence for the sake of violence. Violence is a tool, a heavy one, and one that should not be carelessly utilized. It is the tool of last resort. A tool we may be forced by circumstance to utilize, but we must be capable of showing our restraint if we are to truly be different than our capitalist and fascist counterparts.
A principled leftist believes that all human life has dignity and is worthy of love and compassion, even those who deny that to others. .
The belief in liberating humans from the bondage of centuries of repression must include the understanding that our enemies have been harmed mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually; if we are to rise above the barbarism we must be able to see humankind as being capable of healing those wounds. The revolution is not furthered by wanton violence, it is permanently harmed – engaging in the very barbarism we seek to end is not progress nor is it revolutionary, it is a continuation of what we are against. We cannot allow ourselves to succumb to the desire for revenge.
With that as our foundation, let’s dive right into the rules of engagement.
Use only the force that which is necessary to neutralize the threat, and no more.
Once a threat is rendered harmless, it must be determined how likely will this person become harmful again. If there is minimal likelihood they will be a threat in the future, release them with a ration of food and potable water, having received medical care and mental or spiritual support. If there is a high likelihood they will return as a threat, hold them in a humane space with nutritious food, clean water, medical care, reasonable abilities to send messages to loved ones, and generally treated with care and dignity.
If it is necessary to take a life, then it must be done. When possible and prudent, all steps should be taken to treat the body of the deceased with care and respect, including notifying next of kin. If not possible, as much care that can be expended should. Needless pain, suffering, and gore should be avoided, and never should the death of another person be celebrated. Save the celebration for victory day. We fight ideologies, not flesh and bone.
If an enemy surrenders, strip them of their weapons, tools, and body armor. If possible, provide them with clothing that removes their ties to the enemy group. Then process them according to Rule 2.
Once victory is secured, no one is to be purged, beaten, harassed, or executed unless they have been tried and convicted of heinous crimes (mass murder, rape, genocide, crimes against humanity). All others must be released or held for re-education and re-integration into society.
If a prisoner becomes physically violent and lashes out at those ensuring their comfort and health, then a tribunal shall determine what steps are needed.
Persons engaging in excessive use of violence, violating the humanity of others, should themselves be treated as an enemy of the revolution and held in protective custody according to the rules of engagement.