CNN recently reaired interviews with some people who had no time for stories about children separated from their parents at the US border, held in concentration camps or in cages without basic sanitation or healthcare, or dying in their search for asylum. “Quit trying to make us feel teary-eyed for the children,” says one woman. Another man says, “These people that we have coming across the border illegally are breaking the rules. I have no feelings for them at all.”

There may be some value in hearing such voices, but airing their—factually groundless besides heinous—views might suggest that what’s needed now is an argument, when it’s really action and resistance.

Some reporters are working hard to lift the veil on the gruesome reality that some would prefer stay hidden—and outrage has a vital place. But repeated exposure to outrage, with no outlet, can give the impression that lots of folks are looking, but no one’s doing anything. That’s enervating and, more importantly, wrong.

The volunteer group Together & Free offered a list on Medium.com (6/24/19) of things you can do in the short, medium and long term to fight back against this horror show. Outlets from Colorlines (6/25/19) to Elle magazine (6/24/19) are offering ways to get involved. Look for journalism that doesn’t stop at upsetting you. Hopelessness isn’t something we can afford.

Featured image: Trump supporter who told CNN, “Quit trying to make us feel teary-eyed for the children.”