Historically.
The Communist Party of the US called themselves Progressives in the early 20th century. Their aim was to progress toward communism. Their message was not well received, so they changed to calling themselves Liberal. Their aim did not change.
In the latter half of the century the origin of Progressive had been largely forgotten, and their aim has not changed.
The key is understanding their aim, whatever they call themselves.
The Founders were Liberals in the sense many would use, they wanted liberation from tyrany to self rule.
To call Leftists/Communists liberals is to give them what they want, anonymity.
I think Woke os a ploy of these leftists to impose cultural Marxism on the populace through cancelation.
I am not trying to disagree with you, I endorse most of what you say.
I just wish more people had history before they had eliminating and rewriting it.