Over the past few months, I’ve joined many protests—not as a professional activist, but as a suburban mom, a wife, and a woman deeply concerned about the future my two daughters will inherit. I never imagined myself here, but in the face of rising authoritarianism, I’ve seen firsthand that collective action matters—and it’s gaining momentum. Friends have asked me why I care so much and what exactly I’m doing. So here it is:
🪧Why I Protest. Over the past couple of months, I’ve participated in many protests. Someone recently asked me, ‘Why do you protest?’ My off-the-cuff response? “Because I can. Because I must. Because standing in solidarity with others gives me hope and encouragement. Because it’s working. And because honestly, I’d rather be surrounded by like-minded people who are angry, aware, and taking action—than feel alone, anxious, and overwhelmed.”
📢Doth [WE] Protest Too Much?!? Methinks-No way. This is an ongoing fight with no end in sight—and I’m in it for the long haul.
🌎 Showing Up Helps. It helps me, and it helps the movement. There’s strength in numbers, and comfort in unity. And at a time when democracy is in crisis, choosing to raise our voices—peacefully, loudly, and together—feels like the most powerful thing we can do.
🔕Silence = Consent. This phrase has changed my life. And today, as Trump and his allies barrel forward—shredding democratic norms, pushing authoritarian policies, and testing the limits of what the American public will tolerate—I don’t want to be silent. And I will not consent.
When my children or yours ask, ‘What did you do to stand up to Trump?’ I want to have an answer that reflects courage—not complacency. A response that doesn’t make me cringe
🌊 The Momentum Is Real—and It’s Growing. On June 14th, more than 5 million people across 20+ countries showed up at over 2,100 protest events coordinated by more than 250 partner organizations. This is not fringe. This is a wave. And if you’ve heard of the ‘3.5% rule’ (thank you, Professor Erica Chenoweth), you know what that means: No authoritarian regime has withstood a non-violent opposition movement that mobilizes 3.5% of the population. In the U.S., that magic number is 12 million. Which means: No authoritarian regime has withstood a non-violent opposition movement that mobilizes 3.5% of the population.
In the U.S., that magic number is 12 million. Learn about 3.5% Rule here
➡️ What’s Next, You Ask? According to NO KING’s organizers, the next big protest “Good Trouble Lives On” planned for July 17th in honor of John Lewis. For more details Read More here
And if you haven’t yet made it to a protest in person — let me tell you there is camaraderie. There’s chanting. There’s inspiration. There’s laughter. There’s people of all ages—including young families —and folks from different religious, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. They’re sharing stories, contact info and podcasts. There’s a positive, electric feeling in the air — the kind that reminds us: we are not alone. And importantly, we are at the frontline in our civic battle for our democracy.
🏃♀️What You Can Do (Starting Now)
PROTEST: Join national days of action. Groups such as 50501, Hands Off 2025, Good Trouble Lives On, Indivisible, and the Women’s March have all the information you will need.
WRITE & CALL: Don’t underestimate your voice. Subscribe to Jessica Craven’s newsletter for daily actions and scripts. Use 5Calls.org to contact your reps easily. Say thank you to those doing the right thing.
STAND UP TO BIG BUSINESS: Economic resistance is a real thing, and we can show corporations and politicians that we control the economy. Read Judd Legum’s newsletter for ways to stand up.
SUPPORT THE LEGAL FIGHT: As President Trump’s executive orders attack leading law firms, look to these firms to fight back: Perkins Coie, Jenner & Block, WilmerHale and Williams & Connolly. Consider writing to them showing your support. Read More
GET OUT THE VOTE: Especially for critical State Supreme Court races in battleground states. See Direct Action Here
STAY INFORMED: Subscribe to newsletters on Substack including: The Bulwark; Joyce Vance; Heather Cox Richardson; Robert Hubbell, Andra Watkins; Charlie Sykes; Jess Piper to name a few. And then join BigTentUSA’s speaker series for insightful speakers and unique calls to action.
RUN FOR SOMETHING: Get everything you need to start your own campaign journey. From how to choose the right seat, to campaign strategy, and messaging tips. Insider advice from real candidates who’ve been there. Sign Up Here
BE SAFE. Follow these guidelines when protesting. Read more Here
and for the creative types…
DESIGN PROTEST SIGNS: Protest Sign Inspiration below:
‘When injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty!’
‘No Kings Then-1775. No Kings Now-2025.
‘OMG GOP WTF.
‘The reason egg prices are high? All the chickens are in Congress.
‘Protest like there is no tomorrow’ or better yet, ‘Protest like THERE IS A tomorrow’
‘Make Good Trouble’
