Trump took office again on January 20. For those of us working to advance gender equality and intersecting issues, where do we collectively go from here? What do we need to focus on?
The recent reactions of lawsuits and massive demonstrations reacting to Trump’s executive orders are examples of the nation's response to overturn and limit the harm of his actions. At all levels of society, there are protests and actions against his 2025 policies and the dismantling of our government.
We need to continue to organize and educate with a focus on progressive, enlightened political representation.
How do we make progress during this time? What is your call to action?
The current executive actions of the current president that have so much magnitude and effect on our government and society force us to examine and fortify our public governance but, most importantly, examine and change our economic systems that contribute to the inequality that contributes to the social ills that led to Trump's election.
We should look at economic policies in other countries like Scandinavia, where the government controls natural resources rather than private corporations owning and managing what naturally belongs to the people.
The U.S. once again failed to elect our first woman president. What can we do to make sure that doesn’t deter the advancement of women in political leadership and all sectors?
We must continue to organize for women’s equality at all levels: education, politics, and business. We also have to pass the Equal Rights Amendment. We also have to be more assertive to challenge sexism and anti-trans and gay policies and actions. We can look to our neighbor to the south, Mexico, for inspiration. They not only elected the first female president, but she is progressive and very in tune with the people’s needs.
For those feeling disheartened by this setback and overwhelmed by the work ahead, what words of encouragement would you offer?
We have to look back in history: After the terrible depression of the 30s, we had President Roosevelt, the New Deal with workers' rights, public education, etc. After the turmoil in the 60s and 70s, we came out of that with the peace movement, the civil rights and environmental movements, the resurgence of the women's movement, and the push for LGBTQ+ rights. I believe after this era, we have to organize and win economic equity and challenge our capitalistic systems and corporate rule that govern the daily lives of people in society and the world.
Are there any other thoughts you would like to share?
I do have faith in the goodwill of the people in our country and that ultimately justice will prevail, but it’s going to take a lot of organizing, education, and hard work to make it happen. As the United States is the wealthiest and most powerful country in the world, we have a greater responsibility to lead and set the example that democracy can work. As Senator Robert Kennedy said just before his assassination (I am paraphrasing): “We have obligations and responsibilities to our fellow citizens.”
Portions of this interview appeared at Women’s Media Center.