Friend,

As we ring in the new year and prepare for the challenges to come, we want to share an important message of perseverance, hope and light from SPLC President and CEO Margaret Huang:

2025 will be a year that tests the resolve of the civil and human rights movement. Should the incoming administration make good on its campaign promises, we anticipate expanded attempts to erode our democratic institutions, intensified attacks on the rights of the most vulnerable people, and ill-informed policies that threaten the economic security of people who are already struggling financially. At a time when many are pinning their hope for a better future on a fresh start in the new year, acknowledging what is coming down the pike can feel defeating. But overcoming the obstacles that we will encounter this year requires facing them with our eyes wide open so that we can effectively prepare for what is to come.

In anticipation of the shift in political power, some politicians who profess to be champions of social justice and equality have already made a rush to compromise. But the Southern Poverty Law Center cannot sacrifice its values in order to find common ground, particularly if that common ground comes at the expense of the communities that we seek to serve.

Through litigation, advocacy, community organizing, public education and policy work, we will continue to help make the social landscape of the Deep South more just, fair and equitable. This means holding steadfast in our protection of voting rights and representation; remaining aggressive and innovative in reducing the wealth gap; protecting communities by pushing back against criminalization and mass incarceration; countering efforts to miseducate and undereducate our children; and defeating hate and extremism that threaten our democracy.

In solidarity,

Your friends at the Southern Poverty Law Center