John,

This has been a year filled with excitement at AFJ. After 42 years, Nan Aron stepped down and passed the torch of justice to me. I am deeply humbled that she and the Board would place their confidence in me to lead AFJ. We have hard work ahead, but no organization has a stronger foundation — we were built to last — and so the future is filled with promise.

When I joined the board two years ago, it was because AFJ was fighting creatively, consistently, and courageously against Trump’s takeover of our federal judiciary. I have always believed that our democracy would never live up to its full potential without a progressive judiciary. And more than threaten that ideal, Trump and McConnell were actively undermining it. So, I joined the fight, which I knew would be long and winding.

There are indeed tough days ahead. The Texas abortion case is revealing, but only the beginning. So, what are we to do?

In the words of James Baldwin, integrity requires that we begin again. It is time for us to renew our commitment to saving our democracy for future generations. I know that some of us never stopped. But for those of us who have lost faith, consider this: If we are indeed at the bottom, then there’s good reason to be optimistic because the only way out is up. I very much believe the conservative movement has had its moment. Now it is our turn — and we’re going to have a good time building something to remember!

I know you have supported AFJ for many years. You have carried us through dark days and dug deep when we needed you most. But today I’m asking you to dig a little deeper and consider doubling your gift to AFJ. Now is the time to see that the work Nan started forty years ago does not go to waste.

Not one second, hour or minute.

With gratitude,

Rakim Brooks
AFJ President