TWW - Louisville Member Spotlight "Legislation" - Meet Naomi

Interviewed by Amy Merrick

Where do I begin? Like lots of others around the nation, I’ve become politically active for the first time in my life. I’ve always wanted to become more civically aware, and this election turned that desire into a necessity. Voting has always been a favorite civic duty of mine, but now I know it takes a lot more than just voting every two or four years. I’ve realized that this whole democracy thing doesn’t work very well without active involvement. The folks up in Washington and down in Frankfort may make the policy, but ultimately we’re the ones in charge. It’s time consuming -- calling, researching, news following, attending of rallies and meetings – so I’m very grateful for the privilege to be able to put my time and energy into this work.

Speaking of privilege, my perspective and understanding of our society has also had an awakening since November 8. Now, privilege – especially as it relates to racism, reproductive justice, tax reform and other institutionalized issues -- is something I think about daily. Even hope is a privilege. I’ve always felt we had a lot to improve upon in this country, notably from the perspective of environmental and women’s rights. Now I know it’s beyond that. We need a complete reworking of our institutions, a recreation of policies that actually go deep and fix these issues from the inside out. 

I’m ready to work, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Newswise, so much happens in just one day, not to mention keeping track of so many grassroots groups, individuals and established organizations working towards the same goal. While they are well intentioned, it does add to the daily noise. What do I focus on? Who do I become involved with? Can’t we just have one giant coalition of resistance? As someone who likes organization and everything to be properly in its place, I have a hard time staying motivated when I feel overwhelmed. But then I remember it’s not just about me and I push through the best I can.

    

My top three concerns post-election are 1) the environment, because the damage in regards to the earth is irreparable; 2) the death of facts; and 3) the continuation of current policymaking beyond the next two to four years. I hope this is America’s last attempt to hold on to the past.

In order to stay politically active, I plan to continue to narrow my focus on what issues to get involved with and which groups to be a part of. I’ve always wished I could fix everything that is terrible, but that is not sustainable (or plausible). I just need to pay attention as best I can and keep making sure my voice is heard. I’ve learned the value of attending rallies and meetings because it is necessary to constantly remind yourself that you are not alone and because chanting in a group feels so good. I support the heck out of candidates I am behind, and maybe consider running myself. I try to foster thoughts of love, acceptance, community, awareness, courage, and empowerment in the kids I work with, especially in young girls. I take a break when my mental state needs it. I spend one day a week off of Facebook. I remind myself every day that this is not normal.

I have also found that focusing at the local level is the best tool to effect change. It’s a lot less overwhelming! I saw a hashtag somewhere -- #ThinkGloballyActLocally -- and it really stuck with me. Sure, what happens in Washington does affect what can be done in Frankfort, but ultimately the laws made here by our red majority and Gov. Bevin are going to have a more direct effect on us. I encourage everyone to voice their opinions and concerns to Senators McConnell and Rand Paul because, believe it or not, their job is to listen (though McConnell won’t listen to you), but you’re going to make a way bigger impact by calling your legislators in Frankfort. They are far more accessible, especially because they are not contacted as much, and are easier to visit in person! We must hold them accountable, especially after all the shady crap they’ve pulled this session.

The change has got to come within the state and within our own communities. Look for opportunities to improve the city like planting trees, volunteering as an abortion escort, or attending a metro council meeting. There are tons of great organizations that have been doing this work for years, like Kentuckians for the Commonwealth. They are a diverse group, highly organized, and provide so many opportunities to improve our city and state. There are lots of other newer organizations that need support - The New Kentucky Project, Kentucky Health Justice Network, Louisville Standing Up For Racial Justice (LSURJ). Seek out those local groups.  Also, check out Resistbot. It's a free texting service that turns your texts into faxes. Great for when mailboxes are full or you have a multiple, lengthier messages. Text “Resist” to 50409!