Lucas Gage, an ex-Marine and activist, shares his harrowing experiences in Iraq and the psychological toll of war. He questions government motives behind military actions and dives into the realities of activism in a digital age. Gage recounts the chaos of being targeted by online harassment and swatting, emphasizing the profound impact on his family. The discussion also delves into the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict, critiques on political narratives, and the challenges of free speech in today's society, offering a raw and insightful perspective.
Lucas Gage's experiences during 9/11 and subsequent military service prompted him to question the motives behind U.S. involvement in Iraq.
The psychological toll of online harassment and swatting incidents on Gage's family highlights the dangers faced by outspoken activists today.
Gage emphasizes the necessity of fostering open dialogue about controversial issues to challenge mainstream narratives and awaken public awareness.
His advocacy stresses the importance of building alliances across diverse backgrounds to address systemic problems collectively and effectively.
Deep dives
Lucus Gage's Military Journey
Lucas Gage joined the Marines after witnessing the tragic events of 9/11 at the age of 17. Motivated by a desire to serve his country, he enlisted in the delayed entry program, culminating in his deployment to Iraq on Valentine's Day 2003 for his first tour of duty. Gage served as a combat engineer, which involved building essential infrastructure during the invasion. His experiences during both tours led him to question the motivations behind the U.S. presence in Iraq, particularly regarding the narrative of weapons of mass destruction.
Awakening to Government Deception
During his military service, Gage began to encounter alarming information that contradicted the official narrative of the war. Investigating reports of chemical weapon use by U.S. forces, he discovered the use of white phosphorus, prompting him to question the moral implications of the invasion. This realization coincided with his exposure to the documentary 'Loose Change,' which challenged the official accounts of 9/11, significantly altering his perspective on his government. As he transitioned from active duty to civilian life, Gage grappled with the trauma of witnessing death and destruction firsthand.
Challenging the Narrative
After leaving the military, Gage actively sought to promote a different narrative regarding U.S. involvement in global conflicts, particularly the Middle East. He acknowledged the harms inflicted on innocent populations, sharing his concerns about the narratives propagated by mainstream media. His willingness to speak out and challenge widely accepted views often positioned him in a contentious space, attracting both supporters and detractors. As he began to organize discussions and share his insights online, he recognized the backlash and repercussions that came with challenging the status quo.
Online Activism and Doxxing
Gage’s outspoken nature in the online sphere led to him becoming a target of harassment, including doxxing and swatting incidents that endangered himself and his family. The swatting incidents involved law enforcement being dispatched to his home due to false reports of violence, causing significant stress for him and his loved ones. He noted that these tactics are often employed by anonymous online groups seeking to intimidate activists that speak out against the narrative. This campaign against him has made him even more determined to continue his activism and spread his message regardless of the risks.
Impact on Family Dynamics
The toll of these harassment tactics on Gage's family has been substantial, significantly affecting their mental health and overall well-being. Gage discussed how the threats and public scrutiny have created an atmosphere of anxiety for his wife and children. He expressed frustration that individuals attempting to silence him were targeting the innocent, rather than focusing directly on him. These experiences have led to discussions about relocating to protect his family from ongoing threats and harassment.
Unwavering Resolve in Activism
Despite the challenges and threats he faces, Gage remains committed to his activism and seeks to inspire others to do the same. He emphasizes the importance of collective action and urges individuals to engage in open conversations about controversial topics, even within their circles of family and friends. By fostering dialogue and questioning widely accepted norms, he believes that more individuals can awaken to the truths that have been hidden from them. His resolve stems from the belief that many people are eager for change and that unity is essential in combating oppressive narratives.
Confronting the Jewish Influence Narrative
Gage's discussions often involve the controversial topic of Jewish influence in global and political events, acknowledging the sensitivities surrounding this narrative. He calls for better understanding among communities to differentiate between generalizations about Jewish individuals and critical discussions about specific groups. Gage argues that not all Jews support harmful political maneuvers and that distinguishing between various voices is crucial. This nuanced approach attempts to promote coexistence while addressing the legitimate concerns he shares about Zionism.
Finding Allies Amongst Diversity
In his journey, Gage has discovered the importance of finding allies across diverse backgrounds and ideologies to create a stronger, united front. He believes that personal differences should not overshadow the larger goal of addressing systemic issues caused by a select few entities. Gage actively seeks cooperation with individuals outside of traditional political lines, promoting efforts to work together for a common cause. He reflects on how breaking down these barriers can help broaden the movement and include a wider array of perspectives.
On this riveting episode of the 'Fight Back Podcast,' host Jake Shields converses with ex-Marine Lucas Gage about his controversial past and transformative journey. Gage recounts his experiences during 9/11, his enlistment, and two deployments to Iraq, highlighting the horrors of war and questioning government motives. The discussion covers a range of critical topics, including the atrocities of war, the influence of the ADL, and systemic issues affecting global politics. Gage also shares his ordeal of being relentlessly harassed and swatted, detailing the psychological toll on his family and the extreme measures taken to ensure their safety. This episode offers an unfiltered and raw insider perspective on activism, unity, and the fight for truth amid targeted harassment and cyber-attacks.
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