Beth Granger

What are you worried about Beth? You’re Canadian! You’re safe from the political madness across the border! I try to reassure myself, though recent events prove that no Canadian is safe from the dictatorship south of us. Sure, tariffs and trade wars are scary. And don’t get me started about the threat of a US takeover.

What terrifies me most is the growing threat of a theocracy. It’s the stories bombarding us about leaders weaponizing religion to annihilate human rights. It’s the plan to dismantle public education, so that unregulated private Christian schools can take over the indoctrination of our youth and the unfortunate uneducated masses will be easier to manipulate. It’s the installation of an “Anti-Christian Bias Task Force” in the White House. It’s the attack on anything “woke”, or anyone who is enlightened. It’s the constant chaos, where we all wonder “What Fresh Hell is This!” several times a day.

All of it feels eerily familiar. Growing up in a cult where we were continually broken down and living in a constant state of paranoia.

As the conservative Christian movement is gaining strength and wielding political power, I know that now is the time for survivors of religious extremism to speak up. But it is scary AF. And it’s as exhausting as it is triggering. After enduring 30 years in a cult and then 16 years of a difficult lawsuit, I’d really like a break. I’m weary of trying to convince people of the dangers of weaponized religion.

Ever since I finished the first draft of my manuscript, I have been working to prove that my story matters. Through my long and winding journey towards publishing, I’ve tried to convince agents, editors, publishers, endorsers, influencers, podcasters, bookstore owners, libraries and of course, future readers. All of this is wildly out of my comfort zone, especially since I’m continually having to convince myself of its importance. When you’re born into a high control religion or cult, you instinctually normalize your abuse.

At least in this arduous process I have finally concluded that one thing is for sure: My story is important. It’s a cautionary tale that really matters. And I am uniquely qualified to tell it. But that doesn’t make the process any easier.

I may be weary. But I’m also persistent. And I’m grateful for the chance to channel my pain into a greater purpose. Here’s what I try to remember: Even when we feel powerless, or exhausted, we can find ways to resist.

According to the orange president, who spoke at the National Prayer Breakfast on February 6, “WOKE is GONE-ZO”.

To him I say “HELL NO! There are plenty of us who are still woke. Which, if you aren’t aware, is a euphemism for being a bad ass who gives a f*ck about other humans.”

Since he doesn’t appear to appreciate big words, that explanation would probably go right over his head. But not yours. If you’ve read this far, I’m guessing you’re as woke as I am. And chances are, you’re also demoralized by our collective state of impending doom.

I know it’s scary, but I hope you will find the strength to resist. Join forces with truth tellers. Educate yourself. Read banned books. Buy my memoir before it gets banned too. Re-watch the Handmaid’s Tale and count the shocking similarities to current events. Spread empathy (which is now considered a sin by some far-right Christians.)

Above all, go forth and be a bad ass!

Born and Razed: Surviving the Cult was Only Half the Battle is being released by Ingenium Books in paperback and eBook on February 19, 2025. The audiobook will be released in the spring of 2025.