Friend,

Today we honor a man whose legacy has been obscured over time by platitudes and the assumption that the fight he led to expand access to our democratic institutions and overcome racial inequities was always a forgone conclusion.

As we confront a new existential threat to democracy we need to remember, everything Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. fought for was never inevitable. His fight to expand voting rights and end segregation in America was won through years of painful struggle, relentless courage, and an unshakeable commitment to justice.

There were countless setbacks along the way. Dr. King was jailed numerous times. His house and several churches were bombed. Innocent men, women and children were murdered.

Through it all, Dr. King understood something essential: democracy does not defend itself. Progress requires people willing to stand up when it’s uncomfortable, to speak out when it’s risky, and to keep going when the fight is the most difficult. 

When we see videos of federal agents invading our communities and innocent people are put in danger, we can’t let it silence our resolve. This is when we need to yell the loudest.

As we reflect on Dr. King’s life in the face of unprecedented assaults on our democracy, let’s remember that honoring his legacy means more than words. It means doing the hard work, showing up, and refusing to give in to cynicism or fear. Together, we can keep pushing this country closer to the ideals he gave his life fighting for.

I hope you’ll take this opportunity to find out how you can get involved with Country First and our fight to defend and renew our Democracy.

Thank you,

Adam Kinzinger