Hi John, 

Are you stressed about political polarization in light of the recent US election? I was shocked to see how close the vote counts were, and I know many people living in the US feel uneasy after this election has confirmed how deep this extreme polarization runs. But here’s some good news.

Historical periods of extreme polarity have led to some of the most “progressive” policies that we have today. In the United States, gains like social security, limits on the length of the work week, rights for people of color and women, among others, were the result of creative responses at the height of polarization. 

Activist and sociologist, George Lakey, explains that when we look back to gains made during times of polarity, three creative response “ingredients” were present. 

1. Ideas of nonviolence
2. Inclusivity
3. Cooperative models

He suggests that as we navigate through this period of extreme polarity, we should utilize similar creative responses to move in the direction of progress again. Direct Action Everywhere is doing exactly this.

We hold trainings and events to educate our community about nonviolence and more. We are committed to building inclusive, purposeful communities. And our network is a cooperative model, which means we can adapt creatively by working together. DxE can’t succeed without you. 

Now is the time to recommit to taking action. This is our chance to ensure that animals, their freedom, and the Earth we all share are considered as we prepare to see some massive changes in our society.

If you’re not already connected to your local DxE chapter, get involved. And I hope you’ll join us for an online event soon, like maybe tomorrow’s discussion on The Strategy of Direct Action. It’s happening at 11am Pacific Time. 

Cassie