"Our north star doesn't change": A letter from RESULTS Executive Director Joanne Carter

Dear RESULTS Network, 

In this moment, I wanted to send a message of solidarity and support. We’ve just completed one of the most fraught and divisive election cycles in modern history. I know many of us have strong feelings of uncertainty about the future. Shock, fear, sadness, and other emotions may be coming up. I’m sure there is also exhaustion. I feel this, too. And I know it is especially true for communities that have been actively targeted in this election and historically. I want to assure you that as a network, we stand together. We are here to support each other and lean on each other. We will do our best to protect each other and build our collective strength. We come from all over, with different backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences but we are also one. 

I hope you all will do what you need to in this moment to take care of yourselves. Rest, take comfort in each other and in your families and friends (including the four-legged ones). Self-care is critical so we can carry on:  

“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence. It is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” –Audre Lorde 

Being in community also sustains us and uplifts us when things get difficult. Which is why I remain so grateful for all of you.  

And we know from our advocacy that being in action, especially together, is an antidote to despair and resignation. And we can find hope in what we have achieved that often seemed impossible. I think of how advocates worked together to help turn around the global HIV/AIDS pandemic over these last 25 years. Or getting massive bipartisan House support this year, in a divided Congress, for expansions of the Child Tax Credit.  

I have been thinking a lot about our role in holding out hope and ambition for what we know is possible and needed. RESULTS is turning 45 next year. I have been around for several of those decades. Throughout, we have always found ways to make meaningful impact. Regardless of what happens in an election, everyday people still have power. We make our voices heard through the halls of Congress and the pages of local and national media.  

Our north star doesn’t change. We still strive for a world without poverty — for a world beyond poverty and the oppression that causes it.  

 We will protect and grow programs that save lives and allow families to thrive. We will build grassroots power. This means supporting all of you as the amazing leaders you are and bringing in more people inspired to get engaged.  

Together we have power, and we will use it. Take some time to rest and remember your power. Consider joining your fellow advocates for our November 14 “Organizing for the Future” webinar that will provide space for us to process and move forward in community. 

Remember, we are all in this together. Thank you for all that you do. 

In partnership, 

Joanne Carter