The Campaign for Southern Equality condemns the disturbing anti-democratic violence at the U.S. Capitol today, and we pray for safety for all in Washington, D.C. and across our nation. The integrity of elections, the peaceful transition of power, and the ability of lawmakers to hold session without the threat of violence are all cornerstones of American democracy – and all were breached today at the behest of a sitting president who has allied himself with extremists from the start.
As a nation we must ensure that the peaceful transition of power at both the Congressional and Presidential levels proceeds, as promised by the Constitution. As people, we must use our voices in this moment to decry extremism and commit to peace and the ongoing work of forming a more perfect union. As Rep. John Lewis reminded us in his final days, “Democracy is not a state. It is an act, and each generation must do its part to help build what we called the Beloved Community, a nation and world society at peace with itself.”
Our work as social justice advocates is to envision and strive to create a world where all people can thrive, no matter where they live and no matter who they are – and central to that endeavor is the need to confront fascism, dismantle white supremacy, and always work for peace and justice.
