S2 Ep1038: Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin: The Power of 'No'
May 8, 2025
auto_awesome
Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin, co-executive directors of Indivisible, discuss the resurgence of grassroots activism in today's political climate. They emphasize the importance of unity among activists, particularly in resisting authoritarian tendencies. Engaging younger generations in activism is crucial, as is addressing issues like immigration with authenticity. The duo also critiques political consultants' advice to ignore tough topics. With protests making a comeback, they inspire listeners to transform passive participation into active engagement.
The Indivisible movement emphasizes grassroots engagement as essential for countering authoritarianism and uniting citizens against undemocratic practices.
Engaging younger generations requires tailored outreach strategies that resonate with their experiences and utilize platforms they frequent.
Focusing on a unified opposition to power consolidation allows diverse political groups to collaborate while setting aside more divisive ideological debates.
Deep dives
Formation of Indivisible
The grassroots movement Indivisible emerged as a response to the political climate following the 2016 election. Co-founders Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin, both former congressional staffers, observed effective organizing tactics used by the Tea Party and sought to adapt these strategies for progressive activism. They released a Google Doc outlining methods for local organizing to counteract the Trump agenda, unexpectedly catalyzing the formation of numerous community groups across the country. This grassroots momentum highlighted the need for regular citizens to take action, pushing back against both Democratic and Republican lawmakers who failed to represent their constituents' interests.
Grassroots Engagement and Social Actions
In the current political landscape, grassroots engagement is seen as an essential counter to the power consolidation efforts of the Trump administration. The co-directors of Indivisible emphasized the importance of local actions, such as attending town halls and contacting elected officials, to maintain pressure on those in power. They noted a significant uptick in community organizing following the 2024 election, with numerous local groups being established to mobilize opposition to unpopular policies. This movement showcases how organized, localized efforts can effectively influence political representatives and reshape narratives around governance.
Addressing the Youth Engagement Gap
A key concern for the movement is effectively engaging younger generations, particularly Gen Z, who are perceived to be less involved in traditional political activities. The experienced organizers recognize that the formative experiences of this generation, including the COVID pandemic, have shaped their political consciousness in unique ways. Outreach strategies must adapt to effectively reach these individuals on platforms and in contexts where they feel most comfortable, rather than relying on conventional methods. Understanding the nuances of youth engagement is crucial for mobilizing their participation in pro-democracy movements.
The Importance of a Unified Opposition
The need for a unified front against authoritarianism has become increasingly evident in political organizing efforts. Activists argue that irrespective of differing ideologies, the core message must focus on resisting the consolidation of power that threatens democracy. By framing the opposition as a rejection of authoritarianism, a broader coalition can be built, appealing to diverse groups who may not share all other political views but are united in their desire for democratic values. This strategy aims to empower citizens to actively participate in shaping political discourse rather than be passive victims of political narratives.
Mobilizing Against a Common Threat
The organization emphasizes that effective mobilization against a common adversary—specifically the Trump administration—does not require consensus on all issues. While immigration policies have emerged as a critical point of contention, the overarching theme is focused on civil rights and the importance of due process for all individuals. By framing discussions around immigration within the broader context of human rights and democracy, advocates can engage a wider audience, demonstrating that threats to one community ultimately impact all. This approach encourages individuals across various backgrounds to recognize their shared stakes in resisting oppressive governance.
Protest is the new brunch again. We're witnessing historic levels of pro-democracy grassroots engagement across a broad-based movement of everyday people. The leaders of Indivisible join Tim to discuss how the movement needs to stay focused on what it agrees on— no kings—and to save ideological disputes for another day. Plus, it also needs to get more young people involved. But it definitely should keep ignoring political consultants who tell Dems not to talk about immigration— because it turns out that the federal government kidnapping people off the street is not popular.
Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg join Tim Miller. show notes
