It’s been weeks since Election Day, but it has felt like a lifetime. I know many of you feel uncertain, frustrated, and even powerless in light of the challenges we face as a nation and a community.
It’s natural to wonder: What can I do? How can I make a difference?
Let me assure you — I have felt all those feelings over the last few weeks and have taken some time to reflect and recharge, mostly through the power of mashed potatoes and apple pie. Our team put everything into this election and while things nationally look bleak, you heard from Nick last week that there are wins worth celebrating on a local level - more on that below. There is power in our community, and there are tangible ways to cope, rebuild, and work for a better future.
Here’s how we can move forward, together:
1. Reconnect with our Democratic community.
Reach out to friends and neighbors who share our values. Let them know they aren’t alone.
Attend local Democratic events in person or online to find encouragement and strength.
Share your stories and listen to others — knowing you’re not alone is a powerful motivator.
2. Plan and practice your activism.
Don’t be an election-only activist. Practice your activism.
You don’t need to put it into effect right away, but have it ready.
Share accurate, trustworthy news sources and help combat disinformation.
Support businesses and organizations that align with our values and boycott those that don’t.
Help us build coalitions that strengthen our impact.
3. Pace yourself for the long haul.
This is a marathon, not a sprint. Change takes time, persistence, and energy.
Celebrate small victories and remain steadfast in the face of setbacks.
Focus on the work ahead: local elections next November, then the 2026 midterms. Every effort counts.
4. Resist the blame game.
Criticizing allies or falling into divisive rhetoric weakens us. Instead, focus on constructive actions.
Understand the deeper systemic issues driving discontent and work to address them. Economic inequality, lack of opportunity, and disinformation are challenges we must confront together.
5. Care for yourself.
Take time to rest, recharge, and find joy. Laughter, books, and shared moments with loved ones are just as vital as activism.
Acknowledge the emotional toll this work can take. You are not alone, and it’s okay to have bad days.
6. Hold on to hope.
Look for "green shoots" — signs of progress and courage in your community and beyond.
Celebrate those who take action, no matter how small, and thank them for their contributions.
Thanks to our online friends like Robert Reich and Andrea Gibson for their ideas.
No doubt things in our 2025 strategy are shifting. We aren’t going quietly into the night. This is just getting started. Join or continue to support the Salt Lake County Democrats to learn how you can be a part of our resistance and accountability team.
Chair, Jade Velazquez