We step into 2026 with the conviction that our love and joy for one another is what will get us through. When I reflect on the last year, the community care I witnessed and continue to witness amongst the incredible Local Progress network cements my belief that even in the midst of relentless attacks on immigrants, Black and brown folks, LGBTQ people, workers, and our communities – localities lead and set the foundation for transformative change. This care comes not only from our members’ dedication to serving their communities, but also from the co-governance they demonstrate in every decision they take, together with their neighbors, in the halls of power.
We share our 2025 Year in Review not just to showcase how much we were able to accomplish during a difficult year but to also serve as a guide that sustains our mission. Together, we will win the needed victories for our communities in 2026 and beyond.
We enter 2026 clear eyed and focused on our charge – to organize and mobilize the force and might of this network of local elected officials, partners, and supporters so we can win lasting racial and economic justice. In the face of tightening authoritarianism, we will strategize together to actualize a truly multi-racial democracy. We need you with us to bring abundance and safety for communities to every locality across the country.
We achieved what we did only because we joined together toward this shared vision. As we make plans for the new year, I invite you to step up your leadership as a part of this network in two ways. First, commit to becoming a monthly sustainer to fuel our efforts to rebuild, redefine, and reimagine what is possible from the ground up. Second, bring new electeds to our network to grow our collective power. Let these be the seeds that help our movement to flourish in the face of rising challenges and that outlast us.
We are grateful to be hand in hand with you to celebrate all we’ve accomplished. Our work toward winning that shared vision is just getting started.