Note: As the year comes to a close, we're offering a series of longer, more personal reflections from our leadership team. For so many of us, political work is deeply personal. We hope these stories resonate with you as we navigate the path ahead together.

John,

This past weekend marked my favorite day of the year: the winter solstice.

I’m a New Englander after all, so nothing feels more impactful than the light beginning to return after the longest night of the year. From now until the summer months, the daylight hours of each day will continue to lengthen. Even when the world feels darkest, change is already underway.

For many of us, this past year was a long, painful chapter. We’ve seen devastating losses of care, safety, and dignity. We’ve watched anti-choice MAGA politicians double down on cruelty, and we know that real people—our neighbors, friends, and families—have paid the price.

But as this year comes to a close, there are also reasons to hold onto hope. At the ballot box, in special and general elections across the country, people are pushing back. Our values are breaking through. A tide may truly be turning.

So as the light slowly returns, we’re working to bring with it:

• An end to the worst harms of the past year
• Authentic community representation at local, state, and national levels
• Real access to comprehensive care, including abortion and birth control