By Deborah Richardson, Executive Director
With the results of the 2024 election in full focus, we are clear-eyed about the gravity of this moment in our country’s history. While there are enormous challenges ahead of us, they are not our destiny. The ACLU of Colorado’s commitment to make Colorado a beacon for civil rights and civil liberties remains stronger than ever.
I reflect on my roots, remembering my childhood home in Sweet Auburn, Atlanta. Everyone was in the Civil Rights Movement. From organizers mobilizing our neighbors, to mothers providing childcare, to fundraisers ensuring we had the resources to fuel our efforts, everyone understood that our success depended upon our collective efforts. Back then, as now, our vision of a thriving multiracial democracy seemed distant, if not outside the realm of political possibility altogether. But we believed in it. We fought for it. And, in many ways, we won it.
“People power” is one of the integral parts of social justice movements. Our success in ensuring that Colorado remains a civil rights island in our country is only as strong as your support. Financial resources are the second integral part of movement-building. We must have these two pillars to achieve the true social justice we seek.
By investing time, energy, and financial resources into this work, we can push forward and hold the line on our civil rights and civil liberties.
When my community came together in the 50s and 60s for our civil rights, we achieved lasting change. With that same unity, we can win again.