In the age of growing repression at the federal level, how can local leaders protect our most vulnerable communities? On March 18, Local Progress was proud to join artists, technology leaders, and other local officials across the country in Austin at South by Southwest to answer that very question. Our panel, “Defending Democracy: How Cities Rise Up When Feds Push Down,” was a groundbreaking discussion among Local Progress members and staff on strategies and legislative solutions to growing federal attacks.
Moderated by our very own Managing Director of Membership and Organizing, Fran Menes, we were honored to be joined by Minneapolis Council Member Jason Chavez, Philadelphia Council Member Kendra Brooks, and Austin City Council Member Vanessa Fuentes. Their stories and collective learning not only inspired our audience to think creatively but also to continue this essential fight.
From Minneapolis to Philadelphia, each panelist shared unique and harrowing stories on how the federal government has attempted to override local power to assert Trump’s racist deportation agenda. But while there are so many reasons to despair, each LP member shared hope on how they have, and will continue to, fight back. The common thread was clear – strength at the local level is rooted in collaborative governance that brings community into power, not excludes it. As Council Member Fuentes said, “If you’re not working with the community, you’re not working for the community.”
This is the power of Local Progress – a network where you, as a local leader, can not only learn new strategies, but refill your cup of inspiration. We know this work is hard, but it’s by working collectively that we can overcome the forces trying to keep us down.
In that true spirit, we used our time in Austin not just to share perspectives on the panel but to bring together partners and local leaders, both in the area and who just so happened to be in town. That evening, our Texas chapter hosted an amazing social to help strengthen connections between our members, both new and old. This was an incredible moment to help celebrate all of the work that brought us to South by Southwest and begin planning for the future.
This event, both our panel and the social afterwards, was only possible because of the amazing dedication of our staff, along with our amazing members. Some flew from across the country, and others drove across Texas to be there and show support, sharing learnings at this important gathering.
While we can’t recreate our SXSW panel (but you can watch the full thing here), you can find inspiration, joy, and new strategies at our National Convening this summer. Join us in Baltimore this July and help us build the movement for local power that will show everyone in this moment that hope is still possible.