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Ambassadors, Help and HopeFebruary 14, 2025

DEI Column: Read Bre’s Essay of Resilience

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Changemakers,

With the recent events in the U.S. government, marginalized communities—including people of color, disabled individuals, immigrants, women, queer individuals, etc.—are once again facing the dismantling of hard-fought rights and protections. The systems that were built to oppress us are not only becoming stronger, but they are regressing the life-altering work that our ancestors and advocates before us fought and died for. The systemic injustices that have long plagued our nation are now being legalized, stripping away our humanity under the guise of law and order. This is not new, but it is intensifying. The rights, safety, and futures of millions are being determined without their say.

We cannot allow our voices to be taken from us. We must fight back, harder than ever, to prevent further harm.

Now, more than ever, we must come together, support one another, and raise our voices through advocacy, education, and intentional action. We urge you to stay engaged, question the information you receive, and make informed decisions about who you trust in leadership. It is our responsibility to stand up for each other and resist the undoing of progress.

Systemic Oppression & the Fight for Justice

Historically, laws and policies have been written to exclude, exploit, and oppress certain communities. Whether it’s racial segregation, voter suppression, bans on reproductive rights, or attacks on LGBTQ+ individuals, oppression is not an accident—it is an intentional, systemic mechanism to maintain power. The fact that these injustices are now being integrated into law makes it clear: oppression is not just a remnant of the past; it is an active and evolving force.

But so is resistance. Every movement for justice has been met with backlash, yet every generation has found ways to push forward. This is our moment to push forward.

What You Can Do Right Now.
1. Defend Your Rights

  • Know that ALL individuals in the U.S. have constitutional protections, regardless of immigration status.

  • If confronted by law enforcement or immigration officials, stay calm. Do not lie or provide false documents.

  • If an officer is at your door, do not open it unless they have a warrant signed by a judge.

  • If detained, loved ones can use ICE’s detainee locator.

  • Learn more at the National Immigrant Justice Center.

2. Build Collective Power & Take Action

  • Spend time in your community. Learn about existing grassroots efforts and needs.

  • Support ethical businesses. Buy from companies that align with your values and boycott those that don’t.

  • Vote in EVERY election. Local elections shape policies that affect your everyday life. Even if you cannot vote, encourage others to do so.

  • Stay informed. Read and research a wide range of sources, especially those that challenge your perspective.

  • Call, write, or tweet your representatives. Hold politicians accountable by voicing your concerns.

  • Use online petitions and advocacy bots. Platforms like Change.org and resist.bot make it easy to take action.

  • Talk to friends and family. Engage in meaningful conversations about the issues that matter. Silence is a privilege that only serves the oppressor.

3. Center Mental Health & Collective Care

The weight of systemic oppression is not just political—it is deeply personal. The stress of fighting for justice while navigating systemic barriers can be overwhelming. We must care for ourselves and one another.

Hope is Resistance. Action is Power.

We know these times feel overwhelming. The systems of oppression we face are powerful, but so are we. We are the product of generations of resilience, strength, and defiance. We owe it to ourselves, our communities, and the generations that follow to continue the fight.

Do not let them take your voice. Do not let them take your power. Stay loud. Stay vigilant. Stay hopeful.

With solidarity and resistance,
Bre and Jaden

Directors of Diversity and Equity

dei@theyellowtulipproject.org

jaden@theyellowtulipproject.org

Resources

  1. ICE Detainee Locator

  2. National Immigrant Justice Center (Know Your Rights & Legal Resources)

  3. Mental Health Resources for Undocumented Immigrants:

    1. Informed Immigrant Mental Health Resources

    2. Immigrants Rising: Mental Health Resources for Undocumented People

  4. Women’s Support Resources

  5. BIPOC Mental Health Resources

  6. Advocacy Guide: 20 Ways to Be an Advocate

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