Dear [name],

Thanksgiving is a proud American tradition. Like many of our traditions, however, it has disturbing roots—particularly in the genocide of indigenous Native Americans.

It’s a fitting day to reflect on 2020. We share gratitude for the removal of Donald Trump from the White House, while acknowledging that, as a movement, we have our work cut out for us.

It’s important not to rest on our laurels. Trump is thankfully on his way out of Washington. But any number of crises reflect the continuing failure of our system, and the urgent need for change well beyond the White House.

The genocide of indigenous Americans continues, particularly in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. Some of its worst local hot spots are on native reservations, which were already underserved and marginalized even before the pandemic began.

Beyond the immediate crisis of the pandemic are many others—from wildfires to rising seas, hurricanes, mass migrations, and weather patterns threatening crops and food security—driven by the mounting global climate catastrophe. Climate chaos already kills Californians every year; 2020 has done little to mitigate it.

Ultimately, what we give thanks for today is the chance to confront these challenges together. Our democracy remains far from perfect. But as our nation weathers the crisis of the Trump administration’s ham-fisted and desperate moves to retain power, we share gratitude for every voice that has spoken truth to power in the past.

We’re committed to continue speaking truth to power going forward. We’re excited—and grateful—for your support, and the chance to work together as we overcome the challenges confronting our shared future.

With gratitude,

Shahid