“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic…Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”
The late Congressman John Lewis’s quote remains as relevant today as it was in 2018. He used the term “good trouble” to describe peaceful action to fight injustice. He often repeated variations of this phrase to encourage ordinary people to speak out and take nonviolent action when they witness unfairness.
Throughout his 60 years of activism in defense of freedom, Lewis often was at odds with the dominant political powers when they failed to protect constitutional freedoms.
Today, most Americans find themselves at odds with state and federal officials’ attempts to undermine constitutional freedoms and silence citizens’ voices. All across America, as here in Missouri, politicians are using gerrymandering, voter suppression, physical intimidation and constitutional amendments to overrule the will of the people. If ever there was a time to make “good trouble,” it’s now.
On July 18, Missourians will reaffirm their commitment to “good trouble” with a peaceful, pro-democracy rally on the south steps of the State Capitol in Jefferson City. From 10 to 11 a.m. there will be speakers and performances by the Raging Grannies and the Missouri Suffragists, followed by the ever-popular March for Democracy. Join us in making a statement that politicians can’t ignore. Your presence will send the unmistakable message that we will not stand for attacks on American values – democracy, the constitution and the rule of law. Nothing will change until we make it change!
James Low
Jefferson City
