Introducing: We Live Here Now

About a year ago, we met our new neighbors and discovered they are central figures in the Justice for January 6 movement. One of them is Micki Witthoeft, the mother of Ashli Babbitt, who died in the Capitol building on January 6. Another is the wife of the first person sentenced after standing trial for crimes related to that day. Instead of keeping our distance, we got to know them, and ended up deep in their alternate reality—one where January 6 was a day of martyrdom and unjust imprisonment.

We learned about their grief, love for each other, hobbies, and pets. Over months of conversation, people started asking if we were friends. The answer is “No.” However, if January 6 is not over for some, it felt necessary to talk to those who are still living it.

Our neighbor moved to Washington, D.C., for a specific reason: to seek justice for her daughter, Ashli Babbitt, who was shot and killed at the U.S. Capitol on January 6. She believes her daughter was murdered and wants accountability. She’s not alone in this belief; former President Donald Trump also questioned the actions leading to Babbitt’s death.

When we found out who our neighbors were, we could have easily ignored them. After all, January 6 was an attack on our city. Instead, we chose to be neighborly. We met their dog, accepted pie, and soon found ourselves discussing militias and more.

This led us into an upside-down world where insurrectionists are viewed as political prisoners. In this world, those involved in the January 6 events are regarded as heroes. Conversations with these neighbors made it clear that another January 6 could happen.

Our encounters with them showed us a different perspective—where our neighbor, Micki Witthoeft, is seen as an icon. She encourages people to stand up and speak out, believing that if they don’t, the country will be lost.

Getting to know Micki and her world made us realize that for some, January 6 is not a concluded chapter. It’s ongoing. This understanding pushed us to explore the lives of those who still live in the shadow of that day.

Our experience brought forth mixed feelings on whether we were becoming friends with our neighbors. Micki herself emphasized they weren’t enemies, assuring us they weren’t threatening us in any way. This interaction highlighted the complex nature of neighborly relationships in such a politically charged environment.

Ultimately, our time with Micki and her community made us realize the lasting impact of January 6 on certain individuals. It also underscored the necessity of understanding these differing viewpoints to comprehend the full narrative surrounding that day.

Source: The Atlantic