But Only If We Show Up for Each Other
By Dr. Candice Duvieilh
If we keep doing the same thing, we’ll keep getting the same result.
It’s time we stop exhausting ourselves trying to convince people who’ve already made up their minds against progress. Instead, let’s pour our energy into those who believe in change but are losing hope. The truth is, there are millions of voters who share our values; they’re not unreachable, just unheard. If we offer only a “safe,” middle-of-the-road candidate, we’ll only get safe, middle-of-the-road outcomes, and that’s not good enough anymore.
Let’s be honest, if someone still isn’t moved to vote for justice, equality, and democracy after all we’ve witnessed in our country, then they’re not “undecided.” They have very much decided. No amount of bipartisan polish is going to win them over.
Meanwhile, Democratic voters, our people, are staying home. Again.
Unless we change course, we will lose. Again.
Republicans will not suddenly change their minds. They will not cross party lines because we found a more “agreeable” Democrat. They vote their values whether we agree with them or not.
We need to start doing the same.
Disengaged Democratic voters have told us why they stayed home last time- are we listening?
Muslim voters and allies are grieving and outraged over what’s happening in Palestine.
Young voters feel like their voices don’t matter.
Trans people see a world where their existence is debated more than defended.
Black voters see racism swept under the rug and called “too divisive” to confront.
This is not apathy; it’s disillusionment. If we want to rebuild trust, we must stop offering diluted promises and start offering bold, unapologetic, purpose.
Republicans deliver on their base’s demands. It’s time Democrats do the same.
No more negotiating away people’s rights. No more asking one group to “wait their turn.” If your platform doesn’t center all people- Black, brown, Muslim, LGBTQ+, trans, working class, women, and marginalized communities- then it’s not a winning platform. It’s not even a just one.
If we want unity, we must fight for everyone’s humanity, equally, without hesitation or exception.
That is how we win. That is how we heal.
Ask yourself: What are we asking people to vote for: Something slightly to the right of oppression? A softer version of the problem?
Because vague calls for “compromise” don’t inspire turnout. What are we compromising on? Bodily autonomy? The right to vote? Free speech? Safety? Identity? Dignity?
Our children are watching. They’re learning what matters from what we defend.
Girls are told they’re not smart enough to vote for themselves.
Trans youth are told their identities are invalid.
Black children are told they’re criminals before they’re even grown.
LGBTQ+ families are told their love isn’t real.
All of us are under attack in some form and the only way forward is to link arms and say:
“Not one step back. Not for any of us.”
We will stand ten toes down. Together.
There is a time for compromise: when to build the next road or when to buy new school buses. There is no compromise when it comes to human dignity. None.
We can’t afford to be timid.
We can’t afford to be vague.
We can’t afford to keep asking people to vote against something.
We must give them something to vote for. Something real. Something bold, just, unyielding, and hopeful.
Republicans give their base what they want.
It’s time Democrats give our people what they deserve.