Key Takeaways:

• Activism helped people feel united and hopeful after a brutal year.
• Daily messages strengthened resolve, built arguments, and fought despair.
• Grassroots work led to major election wins and record-breaking protests.
• Nonviolent “good trouble” and boycotts held powerful figures accountable.
• Continued activism can reclaim Congress and protect vulnerable communities in 2026

Activism’s Role in Surviving 2025

As we closed out 2025, Robert Reich offered a heartfelt thanks for activism. He stressed that your daily efforts showed you were not alone. First, you received his posts and found community support. Next, you used the messages to sharpen your arguments. Finally, you found ways to cope without giving in to denial or despair. In each step, activism carried people through challenges.

Reich praised three key goals he set in his posts. One, he wanted you to know you were sane and not isolated. Two, he wished to boost your confidence and strengthen your case. Three, he aimed to help you survive the darkness without drowning in it. Thanks to activism, you met every goal and even surpassed expectations.

Moreover, Reich reminded us that true leadership came from the grassroots. While many CEOs and top officials cowered before a destructive presidency, everyday people organized. They set an example by standing firm, not bowing to threats or bribes. This rise of activism proved that democracy lives in our streets and homes, not in gilded boardrooms.

Activism Steps for a Better 2026

Looking ahead, Reich called on us to keep up the fight in 2026. He urged us to use the same steady tactics that worked in 2025. For starters, organize voter drives and phone banks. Attend town halls and demand straight answers from lawmakers. In addition, continue nonviolent protest to remind officials we won’t back down.

Reich also highlighted the power of boycotts. Consumers hit companies that enabled tyranny or mistreated workers. By refusing to spend, people forced big firms to rethink bad policies. This shows how simple activism tools can shift corporate behavior.

Importantly, Reich urged us to protect neighbors who face the harshest threats. When ICE moved into a community, activists alerted families and rallied local leaders to oppose cooperation. They set up food banks and pantries to feed those in need. Such acts of solidarity grew from compassion and strong organization. They reinforced that activism is more than slogans—it is care in action.

Finally, Reich stressed the goal of retaking Congress. He said that with hard work, we can restore balance and bring decency back to government. By registering voters, training volunteers, and backing ethical candidates, we have a clear path to victory. This next year, activism must focus on results at the ballot box.

Why Activism Matters Now

Human cruelty, corruption, and despair marked 2025. Yet activism gave many an anchor. It reminded people that they have power, even when leaders fail them. Instead of giving in to rage, activists chose “good trouble.” They pressed for change without violence, relying on persistence and care.

In addition, activism built bridges to those who fell for dangerous rhetoric. Rather than shaming them, activists sought to understand their pain. They recognized that many turned to lies because the system betrayed their hopes. By addressing real struggles—job loss, health care gaps, rising costs—activism showed a path to unity.

Moreover, activism challenged the myth that authority figures always know best. When powerful leaders flattered a tyrant, grassroots people spoke truth to power. They shone a light on greed and abuse. This collective voice became the real force shaping America’s future.

Transitioning from despair to action also healed many wounds. Activism taught practical skills—organizing meetings, writing letters, crafting clear messages. Each victory, big or small, built confidence. As communities celebrated wins, they saw that change is possible when people work together.

Continuing the Journey in 2026

As 2026 dawns, remember that activism is both a shield and a spear. It protects vulnerable lives and strikes at injustice. Here are simple steps to stay engaged:

• Keep your circle informed by sharing facts and clear talking points.
• Volunteer with local groups focused on elections or community aid.
• Speak up at school boards, city councils, and through op-ed letters.
• Support ethical businesses and avoid those that harm workers or the planet.
• Build empathy by listening to neighbors who feel unheard.

Through these actions, you show that democracy thrives when people care. You prove that ordinary citizens can drive real policy changes. In turn, every small victory lights the way for bigger wins in Congress and beyond.

A Call to Carry On

Robert Reich believes in your values and thoughtfulness. He trusts that your energy can leave the nation stronger than before. By staying active every day—through protests, calls, or feeding the hungry—you uphold what is good in America. Activism has saved us from despair and built a movement with real impact. As long as we keep at it, we cannot fail.

In 2026, let’s intensify our efforts. Let’s turn compassion into action, hope into policy, and unity into results. Together, we will shape a future that reflects the best of our shared values. Onward.

FAQs

What is activism?

Activism is when people act to bring social or political change. It can be organizing protests, writing letters, or supporting community aid.

How can I start activism in my town?

Begin by talking with friends who share your concerns. Join a local group or attend a meeting. Then choose one action, like making calls or hosting a small rally.

What are nonviolent activism tactics?

Nonviolent tactics include peaceful marches, boycotts, letter-writing campaigns, and community service. They aim to pressure leaders without using force.

How does activism fight despair?

By working with others for a common goal, activism builds community and purpose. Each step gives a sense of progress and hope.