MESSAGE
FROM THE CHAIR: MARCH 2019
BY Kim Savage
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever
has.” Margaret Mead
Waves of activism ebb and flow
over time in response to social and economic injustices. Examples abound
throughout history. Grassroots organizing took hold in the early 1900’s and has
continued to flourish, becoming more sophisticated with advances in technology.
Many things that we take for
granted today were the result of organized movements that pushed for programs,
policies, and laws that protect life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Organized labor, the Suffragettes, the Civil Rights Movement, anti-war
activists, environmental groups, and many more collectives have had a major
impact on society. Regulated working conditions, voting rights, public health
requirements, environmental laws, and access to public education were born from
the persistence of countless individuals who banded together for a common
purpose.
No matter how far we have
come, our rights and freedom are in danger of being diminished by corporate
greed and corruption. The cancerous growth of avarice and unscrupulous
corporations influencing politics generated a new wave of activism.
The explosion of political
participation, assisted by pervasive social media networks, swept in new,
progressive leaders at the national, state, and county levels. We have not
arrived yet. We are still becoming. We will continue to face major challenges
in 2020. Get ready for the fight! Stay engaged!
