“the world is burning literally & figuratively, WTF CAN I DO?”
I’m a full year into my MSW program and a full month into having a bigoted fascist as president. Yippee! Of course, both in my program and in life, I’m being asked: is my energy being spent well, or where is my energy best spent?
With all the executive orders coming in, designed to paralyze us, let’s stay grounded, rested, and connected.
“what do I do?”
I’ve been in many conversations discussing what our individual next steps should be because sh*t does suck and sh*t is overwhelming.
For those who have continued to align with social justice values, most likely, the answer is:
continuing to do what you love, with and for the people you love.
Maybe ask yourself instead:
What do you love doing?
What are you most fulfilled by?
What communities are you a part of or involved in? / What social justice issues are you most passionate about?
Ok! Now, what do you do?
“what is my role?”
When I’m still questioning what I’m meant to do, a resource I turn to is Deeper Iyer’s Social Change Ecosystem Map. Iyer created this framework to highlight the ways people and organizations act in crisis or during advocating. Click here to read more about what each entails.
Example Roles
Storyteller
You’re an artist! Brilliant! Maybe make some radical art with other artists? Be that storyteller documenting and inspiring change!
Caregiver
You’re a parent and already a caregiver for your family! Huge applause for all your time, patience and energy. What other ways are there to nourish and nurture yourself and others around you?
Front-Line Responder
You’ve recognized your strengths in being level-headed and organizing resources during crisis. You’re an amazing front-line responder. Are there other front-line responders near you to connect and team up?
me as a social worker?
For my own accountability:
What do you love doing?
I love spending time with people 1-on-1 or in small groups, writing, design, dancing
What are you most fulfilled by?
Probably when I’m able to create, hold, and advocate for spaces where people can be their most authentic selves
What communities are you a part of/involved in?
Trans, Gender Non-Conforming, Intersex & Non-Binary folks - intersecting with artists, dancers, mental health workers
Now, what do you do?
Keep facilitating the free Peer Support Group for Gender Expansive Artists w/ Art Time Presents
Keep having conversations and/or calling in people 1-to-1 (also calling reps!)
Keep developing my facilitating/counseling skills in school. AND learn more about Mutual Aid Social Therapy
Keep writing stories/sharing information through writing in relation to mental health, artists, and TGI folks.
Host dance workshops that welcome gender inclusivity and fundraise for mutual aid groups and BIPOC/TGI organizations (really working to start this up soon! <3)
other actionable items
Nationwide Protests
FRI. 2/28/2025:
24 hr Economic Blackout
No corporate spending, no gas, no fast food. i.e. No Target, Walmart, Amazon
FRI. 3/14/2025
“National Strike” - No Work for 24 hr
all workers, all businesses, & all higher education
other Resources
printable red cards: www.ilrc.org/red-cards-tarjetas-rojas
THEY ARE FREE! Purpose: “All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. The ILRC’s Red Cards help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations, such as when ICE agents go to a home.”
call your reps: 5calls.org
If you’re scared or not sure what to say/who to call/etc, 5 Calls gives the scripts!
immigrant assistance hotline by Los Angeles Rapid Response Network: (888)624-4752
trans lifeline - crisis hotline w/ no nonconsensual rescue: (877)565-8860