Beyond the Headlines: Resisting Power Grabs & Strengthening Collective Action

Written By AMBER SESSOMS

The Power of Discovery: Uncovering the Stories Shaping This Moment

Discernment calls us to pause, reflect, and align our values with our actions. This week’s events challenge us to ask: What patterns do we recognize in history, and how are they repeating? Who benefits from these shifts in power? Who is being erased or silenced? And where do we stand? By questioning what is presented as “inevitable,” we reclaim the ability to make intentional choices that align with justice, equity, and liberation.

The foundation of our American experiment of democracy has always been on shaky ground from its violent and racist inception. This week, we witnessed what some are calling the hollowing out of government—a coordinated effort to gut federal institutions, replace career professionals with political loyalists, and concentrate power in the hands of a select few.

Some key developments:

Curiosity Questions for Reflection:

  • What stories about democracy and governance do I need to interrogate more deeply?

  • How do historical patterns of power consolidation help me understand what’s happening now?

  • How do racial politics shape who is impacted most by these changes?

The Power of Discernment: Making Meaning in a Shifting World

Determination is about moving from awareness to action. The chaos of this moment is designed to overwhelm us—but history shows that when we act collectively, change happens. Resistance isn’t always loud; sometimes, it looks like everyday decisions—supporting local organizers, protecting vulnerable communities, or simply refusing to be silent in the face of injustice. The goal is not just survival but transformation.

AOC’s latest briefing underscores the importance of not becoming overwhelmed by the flood of crises. She warns that authoritarian regimes use “flooding the zone” tactics—overwhelming the public with constant chaos to create passivity and paralysis—or as Steve Bannon calls it, “muzzle velocity.” The antidote? Focus, clarity, and collective action.

Lessons from AOC’s Briefing:

Curiosity Questions for Reflection:

  • How can I stay clear on my personal and collective values despite the noise?

  • How do I differentiate between reaction and intentional response?

  • Where in my community do I see misinformation being used to manipulate public perception?

The Power of Determination: Taking Courageous Action

Determination is about moving from awareness to action. The chaos of this moment is designed to overwhelm us—but history shows that when we act collectively, change happens. Resistance isn’t always loud; sometimes, it looks like everyday decisions—supporting local organizers, protecting vulnerable communities, or simply refusing to be silent in the face of injustice. The goal is not just survival but transformation.

The urgency of now requires strategic action, not reaction. Here’s what we can do:

  • Support Federal Employees: If you know someone considering a buyout, encourage them to resist efforts to weaken government institutions. Also, encourage them to complete the Democratic U.S. House Committee on Financial Services Whistleblower Form to alert them to the unlawful activity they either witness or experience.

  • Know Your Rights & Educate Others: Immigrant communities face increased targeting. Spread knowledge about ICE warrant protections. AOC has print-outs and other resources too.

  • Engage in Local Organizing: The most powerful change starts locally. Find organizations mobilizing against attacks on democracy. Join organizations like the Working Families Party and Indivisible to take “regular, iterative, and increasingly complex actions to resist.”

  • Contact Your Representatives: Demand accountability. Even if you don’t align politically, elected officials track what issues their constituents care about. Call (202) 224-3121 or use 5 Calls to find and contact your elected officials on issues you care about—scripts included. Download: Apple | Google Play.

  • Build Your Own “Machetes:” Sisterhood, brotherhood, and community are survival tools. As Brittany Packnett Cunningham and her Machetes remind us in Guard Your Joy, Siblings, joy and solidarity are forms of resistance. If you are a woman of the African Diaspora, consider joining our 3D Power Collective. Complete the needs assessment to help us ensure we create this virtual space to truly reflect your needs in this current moment.

  • Watch or listen to our podcast, Living in 3D Power, to experience what our listeners are feeling. Substack | Youtube | Apple Podcast | Spotify

I love the two of you! Y'all are the most warm and fuzzy, yet deep and impactful podcasters out here in these podcast streets!😁❤️😁 —Dr. Chuck Herring

  • Practice Self-Soothing Techniques: Check out this post for ten self-soothing practices and 22 influencers to follow to help you reclaim calm amidst the political chaos.

  • Visit my website for additional organizational or individual support.

Breathwork:

INHALE: There is power in this breath.

EXHALE: There is agency in this body.

INHALE: I can listen to my body.

EXHALE: I will stay whole.

INHALE: Liberation is not a scarcity.

EXHALE: I will protect the miracle of my life.

Adapted from Black Liturgies: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Staying Human by Cole Arthur Riley

What’s Resonating With You?

What part of this week’s discoveries, reflections, or actions stands out the most to you? Let’s continue the conversation—drop a comment or share your thoughts with our community.

Stay Connected:

In solidarity, action, and love,

Amber

AMBER SESSOMS
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