Full Breakdown
Erosion of Democracy: The Threat to Academics in Trump's America
4/15/2026, 10:55:17 PM
Overview of the Documentary's Focus
The documentary "Democracy Under Attack: Can Dündar and Trump's America," directed by Demid Sheronkin and Can Dündar, examines the parallels between the decline of democracy in the United States and Turkey. Premiering on April 14 at the Human Rights Film Festival Berlin, the film highlights the plight of academics facing threats and harassment, serving as a microcosm of broader democratic erosion.
Key Incidents and Figures
Among the prominent cases featured is Mark Bray, a Rutgers University history professor and author of "Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook." Bray was targeted by the far-right organization Turning Point USA, which included him on its "Professor Watchlist." Following the assassination of Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk in September 2025, former President Donald Trump designated the antifa movement as a "domestic terrorist organization," leading to intensified death threats against Bray. Ultimately, he relocated to Spain with his family after facing severe harassment, including doxxing and threats to his safety.
The Atmosphere at AmericaFest 2025
The documentary captures the charged environment at AmericaFest 2025, where attendees celebrated Kirk as a martyr. Filmmaker Demid Sheronkin described the event as a mix of a political rally and a religious service, highlighting the fervor of conservative speakers who framed the political climate as a war. Ava Kwan, a Rutgers student who campaigned for Bray's removal, expressed her intent to protect student safety, though she distanced herself from responsibility for the threats he faced.
Broader Implications and Perspectives
The film underscores the ideological divide in academia, noting that while many scholars lean liberal, far-right voices also exist. Amy Wax, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, is featured for her controversial views, which led to her suspension but not the loss of tenure. This reflects the complexities of academic freedom amid rising political tensions.
Insights from Can Dündar
Can Dündar, a Turkish journalist and press freedom advocate, draws from his experiences of oppression in Turkey to warn about the current state of democracy in the U.S. He emphasizes the alarming similarities between the two countries, citing the destruction of the rule of law and media freedom as critical indicators of authoritarianism. Dündar's cautionary message extends to Europe, urging vigilance against complacency regarding democratic values.
Conflicting Reports and Perspectives
Philosopher Jason Stanley, who fled the U.S., expressed a grim outlook, stating, "The US is over as a project." His views contrast with those who maintain hope for democratic resilience. This divergence highlights the ongoing debate about the future of democracy in America and the potential for recovery or further decline.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I feel like a new wave of authoritarianism was tested in Turkey, and it's now spreading all over the world; I can smell it, I can feel it,” — Can Dündar, Journalist
- “We are in a political and ideological war.” — Steve Bannon, Former Trump Adviser
- “The US is not in a temporary crisis. The US is over as a project.” — Jason Stanley, Yale Philosophy Professor
The documentary serves as a critical examination of the threats faced by academics and the broader implications for democracy in the United States, urging audiences to remain vigilant in the face of rising authoritarianism.
