Two years ago today, I was at an intersection in Charlottesville, with other antifascists and anti-racists, when a white supremacist rammed his car into the crowd.

The whole world sent thoughts and prayers.

But two years later, the US seems more fascist and racist than ever. The first thing I heard, coming from the uphill side of the crowd, was a low death roar. I knew something terrible was happening.

I looked over and saw a grey minivan knocking into people. This was one of two cars that the white supremacist had hit, which stood mid-crowd.

I AM MOM, AND I AM ANTIFA.

I had been organizing publicly for years as a media activist and organizer when antifascism “got big” in 2016, as Trumpism rose. I was found and harassed by the right. I had no choice but to stay public.

As a mom, I remain committed to my principles. Of course I don’t want anything to happen to me, my child, or my family because of my antifascism. The new Cruz #antifa bill, which criminalizes dissent on the left, is worrying.

But who would I be, and what example would I set for my child, if I cowered now?