From Debbie Deland, Florida National Organization For Women President, come these remarks that certainly bear repeating again and again, making them our rallying cry for the work ahead of us, as well as the framework of what we must do.:

We believe it is our duty to fight back against sexism, racism, homophobia and transphobia, gender-based violence, and attacks  on our personal freedom in the classroom, our doctor's offices, and in our homes.

We MUST focus on voter registration.

We MUST grow our feminist family.

We MUST educate those around us on the issues we face. 

We MUST prepare our members and allies to take office at every level, local and statewide, from local school boards to the Governor's Mansion. 

We MUST not back down.

 

EDITORS NOTE:  The Resource Library on womensvoicesmedia.org provides you with listings of organizations that provide help and information on this and many other issues, concerns, and interests by, for and about women.

 

As we prepare to begin a new year, how do you feel about your prospects and the state of our country?  As Senator Elizabeth Warren articulates where we have come from and where we are now, do you share her assessment?  Do you foresee our coming together and turning this country around or have you lost all hope we can do that?

I am cautiously hopeful but it will only be possible if enough of us standup, speak up, and follow the example of John Lewis - "make good trouble".  The radical right are betting you won't share in the work to be done i.e. check to make sure your registration is current, if not, register and vote; urge and help your family and friends to do the same; and, if at all possible, help campaigns to get out the vote.

When I say campaigns, I am talking about local, state and national.  The radical right currently controls a large number of local offices & state legislatures.  This is how they expect to get away with passing anti-voting rights legislation and gerrymandering re-districting.  There has never been a more important time for you to do your share - GET INVOLVED!