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We must confront the fact that our great country is going through a generational regression. Misinformation, disinformation, and injustice loom over society like a dark cloud. The rule of law and fundamental fairness are at risk. Governing norms have been needlessly cast aside. Compassion in our government is in short supply. In this time of maximum danger to our country, all who love America most dearly must stand up and speak out for the principles that, at our best, define the nation. As I reflect on our current challenges, I am reminded of a critical moment in a turbulent era of our nation's history: On June 11, 1963, the Deputy Attorney General, Nicholas Katzenbach, peacefully escorted James Hood and my late sister-in-law Vivian Malone onto campus as they integrated the University of Alabama, past Governor Wallace's infamous blockade. That evening, President Kennedy addressed the American people not merely about a political disagreement, but about a profound moral reckoning for our republic. Every single word rang with conviction and moral clarity, making the case and pointing the way toward what would become the signature achievements of the Civil Rights Era and the foundation of modern America. Today, our current moment presents both possibility and peril for the fundamental freedoms and pro-democracy principles we hold dear. It is in these extraordinary moments — these complex and contradictory chapters in the life of our nation — and through the work of ordinary yet extraordinary people that America's character is revealed, and our future determined. Right now, the progress we have made as a nation — long sought and long fought for — is being dismantled right before our very eyes. We see it in House Republicans passing the extreme SAVE Act, which could disenfranchise millions of Americans. We see it in North Carolina, where Republican Jefferson Griffin is attempting to steal a seat on that state's highest court. We see it in relentless GOP efforts to gerrymander districts across the country, silencing the voices of millions. But make no mistake: there is still reason for hope. Just look at Wisconsin, where ordinary yet extraordinary people — who suffered under years of illegitimate minority rule amid ruthless gerrymandering — kept pressing forward for a truly representative democracy. At the NDRC, we’ve been proud to fight by their side. After years of steadfast work, the people of Wisconsin finally won a pro-democracy majority on the state supreme court that helped deliver fair maps — which meant a fair chance for all Wisconsinites to be heard. And earlier this month, we were proud to work alongside them as they protected that majority by electing Justice Susan Crawford to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Their example is a testament to what's possible when we organize and fight together. So today, I'm asking you directly: please stay engaged in this critical fight. Your support of the NDRC before our end-of-month deadline will power the hard, and absolutely necessary work of defending our democracy — to protect fair maps, combat ongoing gerrymandering, and prepare for the redistricting battles that lie ahead. Thank you, Eric H. Holder, Jr.
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