Building Networks of Resistance: Small Actions, Lasting Change
The electoral college has chosen Trump as president, and we find ourselves preparing for continued resistance. During this time, simple, intentional actions can help us build strong community bonds and foster resilience. This period calls for a renewed commitment to our shared humanity, to networks of care, and to those around us who support equity and justice. One accessible, impactful way to get involved is by supporting and participating in local community events that celebrate unity, inclusion, and humanity—events like Pride, Martin Luther King Day, Juneteenth, and Indigenous Peoples Day. These celebrations are anti-genocidal at their core, standing firmly against hate and upholding the value of every individual.
These events are not just commemorative; they are powerful, community-led spaces that bring people together to plan, organize, and reinforce the principles of equity and justice. By participating in these events, we are connecting with others who care deeply about a better, more inclusive society. The gatherings bring people from all backgrounds together, including children, whose presence ensures that our youngest community members are learning about history and engaging in positive, real-world experiences of unity and diversity. When children are part of these celebrations, they not only learn history but also see examples of resistance and solidarity in action. Through these events, we show children what it means to build inclusive communities that care for one another—a lesson that will shape the future they inherit.
These gatherings and the networks of people they create are crucial, especially in times of political uncertainty. They foster relationships of reciprocity, solidarity, and mutual aid, which are vital resources in any struggle for justice. Investing in these networks now is a powerful act of preparation for the times ahead, as they provide not only support but also hope and connection. These are the same networks that help communities come together in times of crisis, respond to oppression, and find strength in numbers.
In a world increasingly impacted by the climate emergency, these networks will also be essential for survival. As climate disruptions lead to more frequent natural disasters, extreme weather events, and social instability, the community bonds we forge now will be vital for mutual aid and resilience. When floods, wildfires, or heatwaves strike, it will be these relationships that allow us to organize swiftly, share resources, and ensure no one is left behind. The same networks that sustain us through political challenges will be invaluable as we face environmental ones, providing critical support, supplies, and emotional resilience. By investing in community ties today, we create safety nets that help all of us weather the coming storms—literally and metaphorically.
Building these bonds and supporting these events doesn’t require large gestures; even small acts of support are significant. Here are a few practical ways to contribute:
Volunteer Your Time and Energy: Donate your time by working at tables, organizing materials, or setting up for these events. Simple tasks like working the T-shirt table, helping with seating, or distributing information allow organizers to focus on the bigger picture.
Provide Resources: Bring snacks or refreshments for volunteers or organizers, donate funds, or supply materials to help ease logistical burdens. These small acts are essential in supporting those who make these events possible.
Promote and Participate in Events: Spread the word about these gatherings to your friends, family, and neighbors, encouraging them to join and support as well. Simply showing up is a statement of solidarity and helps amplify the event’s message.
Be a Visible Supporter: Consider being a part of the event yourself, either in performances or as an active participant in discussions or activities. Your presence strengthens the sense of community and lets others know they are not alone in this struggle.
Invest in Long-Term Community Bonds: Building strong relationships within these networks means that when challenges arise, you already have a foundation of trust and shared purpose with others around you.
When we invest in our local communities, we are building a network that can resist oppression and cultivate care. In a time when many feel isolated or powerless, these actions connect us with others who value justice and unity. Small contributions build the networks of resilience and support we need to face adversity. By showing up, supporting one another, and engaging in community-led celebrations, we nurture spaces of hope and solidarity—spaces that are anti-genocidal, pro-humanity, and fundamentally committed to the idea that all people deserve respect, dignity, and safety.
This approach to resistance isn’t only about surviving difficult times; it’s about creating communities that thrive on reciprocity, respect, and mutual support. The work of showing up and building networks is not just for today but for the future, for our children, and for everyone who will one day stand in these same communities, working for justice. And in the face of a climate emergency, these networks will become indispensable for our survival. The time to start investing in one another is now—let’s build the relationships and networks that will sustain us, now and in the future.