Remember the Wins

In the past week, we’ve learned of several high-profile leaders being indicted or subpoenaed by federal authorities. Each of these individuals launched investigations into the president in his first administration. These proceedings, so soon into the president’s second term, instill a sense of fear.

Certainly, the indictments, and investigations, are least on the list of concerns for people struggling to make ends people. If you work with children and families, you are likely considering how to manage possible reductions in lifeline programs such as head start, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for needy families, and more. Yet, these matters follow months of other policy changes that create concern for the future.
As troubling as this turn of events may be, it is imperative that we remember the wins.

While the ground beneath us is shifting, there is still significant reason to harness hope. One of the most important things we can do right now is to remember the wins. Remember the organizing victories of old. Remember the stories of our ancestors and movement leaders. This will help us to appreciate that regardless of how rough the road may be, there are always wins.

Remember that When You Organize, You Win

There are people who wake up every day committed to organizing for the betterment of society. We know from history, that campaigns that embrace consistent organizing, we win. They may not win every campaign, and there will be seasons when the loses flow like a steady stream. Every major movement for justice in the U.S. has been fueled by organizing. Never underestimate the power of consistent organizing. Door to door conversations, phone banking, engaging with friends and family in person and on social media, and digital organizing are all significant. The key is to show people the inherent power within them, and then commit to keep the dialogue going.

Remember, You Don’t Have to Do it All

You do not have to hold every piece of the resistance work alone. For every issue that ails our nation, there are people organizing around that specific issue. They may not have a large footprint and their wins may not be broadly publicized. But that doesn’t mean these entities and these campaigns don’t exist.

Remember to Engage Where it Makes Sense for You

Additionally, there are different ways to resist. Find the way that works for you and your team. Resistance can look like funding the work, or being on the front line of delivering the work. It could also look like being strategic with your organizing, your public profile and your campaigns.

I have no idea what the future holds. But I know that if we surrender our hope or give into despair, we will never make progress.

Jennifer R. Farmer, aka The PR Whisperer®, is the principal of Spotlight PR LLC. Be sure to check out other blogs and subscribe for regular communications updates.