In 1967, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., penned a question in his book in response to the deep-seated hatred against Black people and other disenfranchised individuals. He asked, “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?” and challenged us to address the ills of poverty, unemployment, war and racism. As Black History Month comes to a close, I find myself returning to this same question.
This year feels different. The current administration is pushing policies stemming from Project 2025, a 900-page agenda designed to drag us backward in time. Every day we see a move to transform our government from a system with checks and balances to a dictatorship where a President weaponizes the government at whim. But the overwhelming majority of us know what is right and just. Because of this, we all have a responsibility to persist and resist.
The decisions and backpedaling that we see in Washington, statehouses and corporate boardrooms across America do not just target words, programs and budgets. This assault is really against people—people who have endured discrimination for centuries because of unfounded teachings of superiority passed down for generations. The policies and programs that are being vilified were established to correct centuries of laws, policies and practices that were based in hate. From the slave codes to lynching parties; from racial covenants to land contracts; from sexual harassment to hate crimes, conduct based solely on a person’s outward appearance or status as human beings is real. And while no law or policy can change the hearts and minds of individuals, the intentional work of inclusivity gave those of us who were at the whim of another person’s racist, sexist, or xenophobic tendencies a sense that we could have a fighting chance. That is why we the people must stand up.
That is why organizations like the National Urban League, the National Fair Housing Alliance, and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago are taking action. They have joined forces to challenge the administration’s anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) orders—arguing that these orders violate free speech, due process, and civil rights, while posing an existential threat to advocacy groups for transgender and marginalized communities. Their lawsuit is a stand against the erasure of decades of progress.
We stand with them. We will continue to be an equitable resource for Chicagoans. Whether it’s the 3,721 jobseekers we served last year through our Workforce Development Center or the nearly 450 young Black professionals that have received training through The University of Chicago Booth School of Business while participating in our IMPACT Leadership Development Program, we believe diversity, equity and inclusion efforts are essential for progress.
But fighting back requires us all to be engaged. History has proven time and time again that change happens when individuals come together, informed and committed to action—when we choose community over chaos.
Pay attention. There is an old adage that says “when you know better, do better.” We know better, and we desire to do better. Still, with the flood of regressive policies making the headlines, fatigue is a real threat. But we have to fight through because staying engaged is how we hold the opposition accountable.
You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. Find organizations that align with your values and use them as a resource. Whether local, national, or global, connect with an organization that is committed to protecting civil rights, economic justice, education, and equity. At the Chicago Urban League, our auxiliaries are a great place to start. Our Metropolitan Board of young professionals, Women’s Board, and Leaguers collectively volunteer hundreds of hours to support our community outreach. Whether it’s the Chicago Urban League or elsewhere, we offer the resources and opportunities to take meaningful action. And we can be even stronger with you at our side.
Once you find an organization that resonates with you, get involved in whatever way you can. Perhaps, you will work in education to tutor young people or ensure equitable funding for all public schools. Maybe you will coach budding entrepreneurs or advocate for state and federal policies that remove artificial barriers to business diversity. Maybe your arena is workforce, mentoring the next generation, or civic engagement. Getting involved looks different for everyone, and no effort is too small.
However you choose to get involved, those of us who know better must continue pushing forward to rectify centuries of wrong. There’s no turning back. And in 2025, this work is not a Black job, or Latino job, or a Woman’s job—it is everybody’s job. Let’s get to work.
