Courage Is in Season
If you're like me, you may still be vexed in spirit about the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling April regarding The Voting Rights Act of 1965. You may be asking yourself: What can I do? I'm frustrated, but what can I honestly do to help change the situation?
I felt that way too. But as I began reading the history again and remembering the strategies that brought progress in the past, I realized something important: we are still in a stronger position than many of the people who fought for voting rights in 1965. That realization gave me hope.
Across the country, people who believe in fairness and equal access to the ballot box have committed to a Summer of Action. This summer will be filled with nonviolent protest, peaceful demonstrations, community organizing, and civic engagement aimed at ensuring that every eligible person has the opportunity to vote.
Summer officially begins June 21. This doesn’t have to be a summer of the usual clichés. What's better than Christmas in July? Democracy all year. Let’s unwrap justice this summer. Let’s catch some rays, and raise our voice. School's out but activism is in. Vacation Mode: ON. Civic Duty: ALSO ON. Consider vacationing with a purpose: participate in events and actions happening across the South and around the country—combining meaningful travel with meaningful action. Please see here a lineup of civic events this summer.
As we consider what we are willing to do, we should remember the courage of those who came before us. Some of the more vulnerable citizens in our society were willing to engage in direct action. Older adults marched despite threats and intimidation. Children participated in demonstrations. Some were attacked by police dogs and subjected to violence simply because they believed every American should have the right to vote. And when I say children, I mean children ages 9 and 10 years old. If you think that sounds unbelievable, I encourage you to view this historical account of the children’s crusade.
When I think about activism, one passage often comes to mind: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Congressman and Civil Rights Activist John Lewis called it “getting into good trouble.” Here are a few ways we can overcome evil with good:
Nonpartisan Actions You Can Take
Educate yourself about the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Consider visiting The Legacy Sites.
Become a poll worker.
Participate in the Summer of Action activities listed here: FreedomSummer2026
Serve as an election observer where permitted.
Volunteer with Election Protection.
Help voters obtain IDs through VoteRiders.
Register voters through League of Women Voters programs.
Attend local election board meetings.
Support civic education and voter-information efforts.
Monitor election administration and advocate for transparency.
History shows us that ordinary people, acting together with courage and persistence can make an extraordinary difference. This summer, each of us has an opportunity to decide what role we will play. Same fight. New generation.
Further Reading:
The decade that changed the world
Activists Launch Massive ‘Freedom Summer’ Juneteenth Surge After SCOTUS Gutted Voting Rights