FLIP NC co-founders Briana and Amy with Indivisible EDs Ezra and Leah in 2017
It’s hard to stay on top of all the horrifying news coming out of Washington every day – much less react to it. But it’s precisely because this is their strategy – to overwhelm and disorient us – that it’s so important to fight back. Resistance is essential, and it works. That’s why we’re returning to our Indivisible roots (yes, FLIP NC started out as an Indivisible group back in 2017) to hold the line while continuing to focus on the state-level battles where we can have the most impact. Check out this guide, which offers clear, strategic calls to action to resist authoritarianism and build our movement for a democracy that works for everyone.
Most importantly: Don’t let them overwhelm you into inaction. Instead, protect your peace while maintaining your energy by deciding what your “thing” is and focusing on that. No one can do everything, but we can all do something.
To help, here are three ongoing ways to resist that are worth your time:
Hold your elected officials accountable. If they are Democrats, they need the push to stand up and hold the line. They work for us; make sure they know what you expect from them. If they’re Republicans, they need to hear what their constituents care about – and how serious we are. It’s about being (at least) as loud and persistent as the other side, as AOC explains here. Calling is optimal; you can do it every day, and 5 Calls makes it super easy. You can also post on social media, write emails, and visit them in person.
Use your voice. You are a trusted messenger for someone, and that means you have influence. Use it. Whether it’s on social media, in the family group chat, or at the county commission meeting, take the time to stay informed about the things that matter to you, and share your knowledge and perspective with others.
Build community. Whatever comes next, the people around you are the ones you’re going to be caring for, arguing with, depending on. Get to know them. Look for ways to help. Lay the groundwork to build something better.
If you’re not already, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Bluesky. As we move forward, we’ll occasionally post specific calls to action. These will be from vetted sources and usually NC-based or something we feel is particularly urgent (and are doing ourselves).
We all wish we weren’t here. No one wants to live through an authoritarian regime. But as long as this is where we find ourselves, we choose to fight.
If you’re in Durham, join us at Bull City Indivisible’s March 23 meeting.
Resources and further reading:
Democrats have tools to fight back and they should use them.
Indivisible’s Practical Guide to Democracy on the Brink
5 Calls: Super helpful tool (also available as an app!) for calling your reps, including scripts for every issue you care about and contact info for your elected officials.
Everyday Activism: NC-specific ways to engage from Durham-based activist Marilyn Hartman
Sherrilyn Ifil: Democracy is Crumbling. Is Anybody Doing Anything?
Jamelle Bouie: There’s No Going Back