Was just having this discussion with sibling anon. Numerous discussions with clients. One recently admitted he knew COVID mask mandates BS, but said he was employed by a global investment banking company and would never speak out publicly because he knew he would be fired (and he had a family to support).
Today I helped a client buy a gift for his wife who is in charge of doling out the vaccines at the hospital. He told me she already took it. All I could sheepishly say is "she is a brave woman" as I charged him $500 for the gift he bought her (I hope she lives to enjoy it.)
Why didn't I speak up? Why doesn't everyone speak up? Because we are all afraid to lose the little stability we have in our lives? I don't know at what point I would have the courage to throw away my life's work (small business anon) and risk my reputation and livelihood. I would guess it wouldn't be until I felt nearly everything I worked for was already taken from me because at that point, I no longer have anything to lose. At that point, it's probably too late though.