Fear has always been the weapon used to keep our people quiet. In earlier times, it showed up as threats, chains, and laws that said we couldn’t speak or learn.

Today it shows up in silence; in jobs we might lose, positions we might offend, or looks that tell us to “wait our turn.” But waiting has cost us enough.

At every council meeting, in every vote, and in every plan written about our neighborhoods, fear keeps too many good people from saying what they already know is wrong.

That’s where the community must step in. Our voices are not tied to political seats or salaries; they’re tied to truth, history, and the generations coming after us.

When we speak, we give strength to those sitting on the dais who want to agree but can’t. When we document, we build a record that can’t be erased.

When we show up, we remind them that accountability has a face.

Fear cannot lead us – not if we expect freedom to follow.

Our ancestors faced worse and still found courage to fight for education, housing, and the right to be seen as human. We honor them by refusing to let intimidation silence us now.

Empowerment begins when we realize that!