Uniting Communities to Defend Democracy and Advocate for Change
In the wake of Donald Trump’s election in 2016, a powerful grassroots political movement emerged, born from the urgency to protect democratic values and resist authoritarianism. That movement is Indivisible, an organization that leverages the collective power of local communities to fight for progressive policies and safeguard the rights of all Americans.
An Overview of Indivisible
Founding and Vision:
Founded in December 2016 by former congressional staffers Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg, Indivisible was shaped by the need to push back against the perceived rise of authoritarianism and the policies put forth by the new administration. Drawing inspiration from the successful grassroots tactics of the Tea Party, the founders released the Indivisible Guide—a 26-page manual offering clear, actionable strategies for local activists. This guide became a blueprint for organizing, mobilizing, and resisting the Trump agenda through constructive, nonviolent means.
Structure and Grassroots Approach:
Indivisible thrives on a decentralized model. The organization is composed of thousands of local chapters spread across urban, suburban, and rural America. Each chapter is autonomous, focusing on the unique needs of its community while remaining aligned with the organization’s broader national objectives. This grassroots structure ensures that every voice has a platform, and every action can be tailored to address local issues while contributing to national change.
Goals and Principles:
The organization is committed to fostering a pro-democracy majority in the U.S. Their mission revolves around pushing back against what they call “MAGA overreach” (Make America Great Again) while advocating for policies that reflect progressive values. Some of the key issues Indivisible champions include:
- Healthcare reform
- Climate action
- Social justice
- Racial and gender equality
Through grassroots organizing, political mobilization, and coalition-building, Indivisible works tirelessly to shape the future of American politics and to ensure that democracy is protected for all citizens.
Recent Initiatives: Strengthening the Resistance
In anticipation of Donald Trump’s potential second term, Indivisible has rolled out an action plan aimed at further strengthening resistance to right-wing policies. This plan includes a multi-faceted approach:
- Political Mobilization: Indivisible is focused on engaging local communities and organizing voter mobilization efforts ahead of key elections, including the 2026 midterms. Their work includes holding lawmakers accountable, pushing for progressive policy, and creating opportunities for activists to speak out.
- Coalition Building: Recognizing the importance of unity, Indivisible collaborates with like-minded organizations like MoveOn and the Working Families Party. Together, they form a united front, resisting regressive policies and ensuring that progressive voices are amplified across the nation.
- State-Level Resistance: Indivisible is also focused on state-level advocacy, particularly in blue states that may be vulnerable to federal rollbacks in the event of a second Trump presidency. The organization is working to protect existing progressive laws and ensure that local governments stand firm in their defense of justice and equality.
Core Values: Building a Movement for Everyone
At its core, Indivisible embodies a set of principles that are essential to its mission and its success:
- Inclusion: Indivisible strives to represent diverse communities, ensuring that all voices, especially marginalized groups, are heard and respected.
- Respect: The movement promotes a culture of respect and tolerance, where healthy dissent is encouraged, and all opinions are valued.
- Nonviolence: True to its grassroots origins, Indivisible focuses on constructive action that avoids harm and upholds the safety and dignity of individuals and communities.
These values are woven into every action, event, and campaign, reinforcing the idea that the fight for democracy is one that belongs to everyone.
Impact and Reach: A Movement with Momentum
Since its inception, Indivisible has exploded in size and scope. Today, the organization claims to represent over 5,800 local groups across the United States. Through these groups, Indivisible has been able to carry out an impressive range of activities, including:
- Electoral Campaigns: Local chapters have participated in a wide array of political campaigns, from lobbying Congress to supporting candidates who align with progressive values.
- Fundraising: Indivisible has raised millions of dollars to fund its operations, ensuring its independence from traditional party structures and enabling it to focus on its mission of civic engagement.
- High-Profile Events: Indivisible has played a central role in events like the Women’s March, helping to mobilize hundreds of thousands of people in protest and in support of critical social issues.
With its diverse coalition and focus on community-centered action, Indivisible continues to expand its reach and amplify its voice, empowering Americans to fight for a better future.
Join the Movement
Indivisible’s grassroots approach is a powerful reminder that change is possible when people come together to demand it. The organization offers tools, resources, and support for anyone looking to take action in their community and resist harmful political agendas. Whether you’re interested in local organizing, voter mobilization, or simply staying informed, Indivisible has a place for you.