Dear John,

On Monday, as Donald Trump's second term began on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we faced a profound moment that called us to remember who we are and what we stand for. This convergence is not merely symbolic—it represents the real choice between Dr. King's vision of a just multiracial democracy and the forces seeking to undermine it.

This moment demands more than sporadic responses—it requires bold, unified, and coordinated action that matches the magnitude of the threats we face.

"The threats we face today are real and deliberate," said Race Forward President Glenn Harris in a statement on Monday. "Yet we know this: robust, equity-centered systems can outlast even the most dangerous agendas. Therefore, we will continue to fight."

Read "Race Forward Condemns Trump's Dangerous Executive Orders"

John, our collective response to this moment will define tomorrow's democracy. We must be clear-eyed about the challenges ahead while remaining steadfast in our commitment to advancing racial justice and resisting the erosion of hard-won progress.

Each of us has a role to play in meeting this moment with courage and purpose, Eric K. Ward, executive vice president at Race Forward, reminds us in "Two Americas, One Day: The Truth We Must Speak Now." In this op-ed, Ward highlights the critical need to build community resilience, support local leaders, and maintain hope—all while taking decisive action to protect our democratic values.

Our second installment of "No Matter What Happens," a limited podcast series, explores these insights and strategies further. Recorded at the Facing Race conference in St. Louis in November 2024, we examine the unprecedented aftermath of the presidential election and what it means for democracy, racial equity, and social movements.

Through thoughtful conversations, we address the stark realities of the post-2024 political landscape while mapping a path toward resilience and progress. This series provides listeners with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to persevere in the fight for racial justice—no matter what happens.

Listen to the teaser episode now, with the full installment coming soon.

Revolutionary Generosity: Ramon Ramirez on Building Multiracial Movements for Justice

In this first episode, Eric Ward, Executive Vice President of Race Forward, talks with Board Member Ramon Ramirez, Coordinator of the Elders Network, about the power of multiracial coalitions in tackling racial and social justice challenges. Ramon highlights Black-Brown unity and intergenerational collaboration as key to advancing equity, while discussing the Elders Network’s role in mentoring young activists. Through personal reflections, Eric and Ramon explore how revolutionary generosity and care can sustain justice movements amidst growing polarization.

We are working closely with partner organizations to analyze the wave of executive orders concerning immigration, birthright citizenship, gender identity, federal workforce, racial equity, and more. We will share our  analysis soon. In the meantime, here are some important resources and next steps:

•  Read our full organizational statement on the inauguration and our response to Trump's executive orders

•  Read "Two Americas, One Day: The Truth We Must Speak Now"

•  Watch "Trump 47: What's Next," a conversation between Race Forward President Glenn Harris and Patrice Willoughby, NAACP's Chief of Policy for Legislative Affairs

•  Listen to this episode from No Matter What Happens on Apple or Spotify

•  Connect with local organizers advancing racial justice in your community

In these challenging times, we remember Dr. King's words: "We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope."

Hope isn't just a sentiment but a catalyst for the change we seek to create. In infinite hope and determination, we move forward together to build the future we envision.

In solidarity,  

Race Forward