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Dear John,
I wish I had the answers. After 20+ years of organizing, I still don’t exactly know what to do or how to process what happened during last week’s election. Like me, many of you are still in shock, feeling anxious, angry or frustrated. And some of you have already turned toward action and are channeling your feelings into organizing for the road ahead.
What I do know is this: we need each other more than ever. I feel so fortunate to be a part of the Netroots Nation community, where hundreds — if not thousands — of passionate progressives are committed to standing up for our democracy, each other, and our collective futures.
In the coming months, progressives will need to come together to protect the communities most likely to be under attack in this new administration. The old playbook isn’t cutting it. But our community is wise, inventive, and dedicated to creating a better future despite what lies ahead.
This summer (August 9-11), Netroots Nation will host our 20th annual gathering of the progressive community in New Orleans. We’ll have time to reflect and dissect the election, for sure. But more importantly, we’ll take time to strategize about how to best protect our democracy, shine a light on truth and justice, organize for the fight ahead, and care for our communities and our planet. I hope you will make plans to join us.
In the weeks ahead, we’ll share opportunities for learning and healing. And early next year, we’ll call on you to help us build out the agenda for our coming conference in NOLA.
Until then, I encourage you to support frontline organizing where you live. Get involved with a local immigration group; contribute to an abortion fund or mutual aid fund; or volunteer for an organization that provides practical support to those in need. And if you find yourself needing support or looking for a place to plug in, don’t hesitate to ask.
I hope you will take some time to rest and care for yourself.
In the fight with you,
Eric Thut
Executive Director
Netroots Nation
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