Strategies for the Resistance 2.0 with Leah Greenberg
Jan 7, 2025
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Leah Greenberg, co-founder of Indivisible, shares her insights on grassroots political organizing in response to the impending second inauguration of Donald Trump. She discusses the origins and impact of Indivisible, emphasizing community engagement and accountability for elected officials. The conversation highlights the importance of strategic narratives and coalition-building to resist controversial legislation. Greenberg also reflects on the successes and challenges of past political strategies, stressing the need for unity among progressives in today’s complex landscape.
Broad coalitions that prioritize shared goals over individual ideologies are essential for effective resistance against autocratic regimes.
Indivisible has evolved from a grassroots response to Trump’s election into a significant movement mobilizing pressure on local and national issues.
Local organizing empowers constituents to directly influence elected representatives, making citizen engagement a vital component of political change.
Deep dives
The Power of Broad Coalitions
Successful movements to challenge autocracies often rely on the formation of broad coalitions, united by their opposition to a current regime rather than by shared ideologies. These coalitions may include diverse groups that, despite differing views on various issues, can collaborate on common goals related to democracy. This approach emphasizes that even differing members can contribute to a collective resistance, as long as the primary objective remains clear. Recognizing and valuing this diversity is crucial for creating an effective front against authoritarianism.
Shifting Democratic Strategies
As the political landscape shifts with the looming second Trump administration, Democrats are grappling with changing tactics in their opposition. The 2016 election saw a unified front of resistance from the Democratic Party; however, following Trump’s return to power, many Democratic leaders now advocate for finding common ground with him on shared issues. Figures like Bernie Sanders and Ro Khanna are highlighting the necessity for Democrats to engage with Trump rather than solely resist. This represents a significant departure from the previously entrenched stance of outright opposition.
Indivisible's Evolution and Continued Relevance
Originally formed in response to Trump’s election, Indivisible has transformed into a significant grassroots organizing force with numerous local groups. Leah Greenberg, a co-founder, highlights how the organization evolved from a simple guide for resistance into a nationwide movement that has tackled various issues, including healthcare and immigration policies. Despite initial skepticism about their impact, Indivisible successfully mobilized constituents to advocate against negative policy changes. Their model of local organizing is seen as essential for future resistance efforts.
Importance of Local Organizing
Local organizing plays a critical role in effecting political change, as demonstrated by Indivisible’s strategies. Engaging just a small group of constituents to contact their elected representatives can create significant political pressure and influence decision-making in Congress. Furthermore, grassroots efforts provide a platform for ordinary citizens to voice their concerns and demands directly to representatives. As the podcast suggests, this localized activism can serve as a powerful tool to demand accountability from elected officials.
Building Momentum Against Authoritarian Threats
In the face of potential authoritarianism, mobilizing against non-normative political tactics is essential. The podcast discusses the looming challenges posed by Trump's administration, which may include actions detrimental to democratic norms. Grassroots movements, like Indivisible, are pivotal in maintaining public awareness and direct opposition to such actions. By creating a narrative that holds politicians accountable and fosters a sense of urgency among constituents, these movements can amplify the resistance against backsliding towards undemocratic practices.
Well, here we are. The second inauguration of Donald Trump is quickly approaching. And there’s no doubt that progressives have a lot of work to do in the months and years ahead. Our guest this week co-founded one of the biggest groups that initially came about in response to Trump 1.0. Leah Greenberg is co-founder and co-executive director of Indivisible, an organization with a mission to organize thousands of local groups to resist the GOPs agenda, elect local champions and fight for progressive policies. She joins WITHpod to discuss lessons learned from the past, ideas within Indivisible’s “Practical Guide to Democracy on The Brink” and glimmers of hope as ordinary people fight back.
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