We’re headed for a tumultuous four years, with an extremist Republican Administration one week into office and already taking actions that will have significant impacts on many of our nation’s most vulnerable populations, including residents in Clinton County.
Many people are asking, “What can I do now?” to resist.
Here are 10 ideas.
1. Protect and be an ally to the vulnerable in your community.
Stand up for and support those who will be most impacted by Trump and Republican policies, including (but not limited to): LGBTQ+, women, undocumented, seniors, and people of color.
2. Boycott companies that are enabling the Trump regime, whenever possible!
Money speaks, and every dollar you spend is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. Seek out companies that do not seek to have undue influence on our political process and that stand up for diversity, equity, inclusivity and accessibility.
3. Help fund or help raise awareness about groups that are on the front lines fighting against this Republican Administration’s extreme actions.
Advocacy groups and nonprofits are providing resources to the vulnerable and litigating the overreaches of power.
4. Spread truth and information.
“Information is power” only when it is accurate. Urge friends, relatives, and acquaintances to avoid right wing propaganda outlets.
5. Advocate for progressive policies locally.
Democratic principles are not about “democrat” or “republican” (though our party champions them wholeheartedly!). They’re popular. Tell your local officials how you feel about issues unfolding in your community to empower them.
6. Support worker and civic action that resists repression and inequity.
Worker strikes and peaceful protests are the people’s grassroots responses to oppression and injustice.
7. Be the change.
Get involved in local civics yourself. Join local boards and committees. Run for a local office. If your voice is not represented, someone else’s will be. It often takes just a few hours per month.
8. Keep the faith.
We cannot give up on America or the ideals it stands for. The fight for an America that lives up to its ideals wherein “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Like those who stood before us, we can never give up.
9. Exert compassion.
Democrats, generally speaking, innately care about other people, even people not like themselves. This certainly goes to all the vulnerable who are likely to be most impacted by extremist Republicans’ proposed policies. However, extend this compassion to Republican voters too. While the people at the top and many who follow them are spewing hateful and divisive rhetoric, we must turn the other cheek. They are misguided and fearful, and it’s honestly sad. Many voters simply want massive change, and they don’t know how to get what they seek. We need to guide them.
10. Pause often!
Do not let this extreme Republican Administration and its darkness take over. Set boundaries and take care of yourself so we can keep up the good fight in solidarity.
Clinton County Democratic Party 