On December 5, 1955, just four days after Rosa Parks was arrested, a 26-year-old pastor, new to Montgomery, was chosen to speak at the first organizing meeting of the bus boycott.
As we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, let’s remember the very first words he said that day:
“We are here in a general sense because first and foremost we are American citizens and we are determined to apply our citizenship to the fullness of its meaning. We are here also because of our love for democracy, because of our deep-seated belief that democracy transformed from thin paper to thick action is the greatest form of government on earth.”
A democracy of “thick action” is what we’re all fighting for in 2024.
The Republican politicians like Donald Trump and David Schweikert, who worked to overturn the election on January 6, were only able to threaten our democracy because “We the People” have lost faith in it.
Last week, Gallup released polling numbers showing that a record low of just 28% of U.S. adults are satisfied with the way democracy is working in the country.
Can we blame them?
Large majorities of Americans want common-sense gun laws, immigration reform, and border security, but year after year, Republicans in Congress like David Schweikert have blocked action on these issues. We need to show Americans that democracy can work and that it is worth fighting for.
Earlier this year, my son and I visited Selma. One of my favorite quotes from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is, “the arc of history is long but it curves toward justice.” Often, people misinterpret this quote. He wasn’t saying that things will get better automatically over time.
Dr. King said those words as he was about to lead hundreds across Edmund Pettus Bridge into danger. He knew that that arc only curves when we take action.
Together, we can make 2024 a year of decisions. We can respond to the climate crisis, make the American Dream a reality once again, and defend our democracy and freedoms — including the right to choose.
Thanks for taking the time to read my note today and supporting this team.
