On July 17, communities across America will gather for Good Trouble Lives On, a national day of nonviolent action honoring the legacy of the late Congressman John Lewis. This event is a necessary response to escalating attacks on civil and human rights spearheaded by the Trump administration. With over 25,000 lives potentially at risk due to proposed healthcare cuts and draconian immigration policies, the stakes have never been higher.
Good Trouble Lives On in Albuquerque
In Albuquerque, New Mexico, activists will hold a candlelight vigil and march at Roosevelt Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring battery-powered candles and flowers to create a community altar honoring those who have died in ICE custody, alongside the estimated 50,000 Americans who will die annually as a direct result of losing access to healthcare. This event is not just a protest; it is a collective mourning and a call to action against systemic injustices.
Escalating Attacks on Civil Rights
The Trump administration's recent policies, including the SAVE Act, exemplify a broader strategy to suppress voter turnout and criminalize dissent. As reported by the Trump Administration Human Rights Tracker, the separation of families at the border has reached critical levels, with an alarming rate of 65 children separated daily. This is a direct assault on human dignity and a stark reminder of the administration's disregard for civil rights.
Candlelight Vigil | Mayor Brand…
The Human Cost of Healthcare Cuts
Research findings highlight the harrowing human cost of proposed healthcare cuts. According to studies, changes to Medicare could result in over 17,000 additional deaths among individuals aged 65 to 67, while Medicaid policy changes could lead to over 8,000 deaths among those under 65. These statistics illustrate the lethal consequences of prioritizing profit over people, a cornerstone of the Trump administration's policy agenda. The implications are staggering; as a society, we must confront the reality that our healthcare system is failing the most vulnerable among us.
The Legacy of John Lewis and the Power of Nonviolence
John Lewis's legacy serves as a guiding principle for today's activists. His belief in the power of nonviolent protest is more relevant now than ever. As movements across the nation mobilize, the principles of community, persistence, and moral courage that Lewis embodied must be at the forefront. According to a study on effective social protests, nonviolent actions are crucial for galvanizing support, particularly during times of deep societal division.
The messages kids want you to see
Mobilizing for Change in a Divided Nation
The urgency of this moment is palpable. As we face an administration bent on dismantling the fabric of our democracy, it is imperative for citizens to rise up. The data suggests that nonviolent protests have the potential to mobilize sympathizers and sway public opinion, especially against a backdrop of increasing hostility towards marginalized communities. The Good Trouble Lives On event embodies this spirit of resistance and solidarity, making clear that in America, the power lies with the people.
