PDF Summary:We're In This Together, by Linda Sarsour

Activism has shaped Linda Sarsour's identity from an early age. As the daughter of Palestinian immigrants, she witnessed the injustices faced by her relatives in occupied territories, fueling her passion for social justice. We're In This Together traces how the aftermath of 9/11 propelled Sarsour to organize for Muslim and immigrant communities, setting her on a path of championing cross-movement coalitions and intersectional justice.

Sarsour's journey takes her from advocating against racial profiling and deportation to becoming a national voice during the Women's March and Black Lives Matter protests. She recounts her unwavering commitment to dismantling oppressive systems, even when facing adversity—whether fighting police brutality, demanding accountability from law enforcement, or inspiring her family with her activism's impact.

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This period of Sarsour's life demonstrates her evolution as an organizer, showcasing her ability to build coalitions, advocate for policy changes, and empower individuals to stand up for their rights. The skills she developed at AAANY would become invaluable in her later work on a wider platform, as she sought to create a more just and equitable society for all.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer for a leadership role in a local community organization to gain experience. Start by offering to lead a small project or committee within the organization. This will give you a taste of leadership and help you understand the dynamics of guiding a team towards a common goal.

Other Perspectives

• The range of issues addressed by AAANY is broad, and there could be a concern that by trying to tackle too many areas, the organization might spread itself too thin, potentially reducing the impact it can have in any single area.
• Emphasizing the emotional aspect of deportation could potentially lead to a one-sided narrative that doesn't fully address the complexity of immigration issues, including the need for a balance between compassion and the rule of law.
• Advocating for policy changes is a complex process, and it's important to consider whether the policies advocated for were effectively implemented and if they led to the intended positive outcomes.
• Success in one area of social justice work does not guarantee success in another, as different challenges require different strategies and approaches.

Building Cross-Movement Coalitions and Advocating Intersectional Justice in BLM and the Women's Rights March

This section focuses on Sarsour's commitment to building cross-movement coalitions, demonstrating her belief in the interconnected struggles for social equity. She highlights the parallels between the experiences of Muslims post-9/11 and the systemic injustices faced by Black and Brown communities, particularly the issue of police brutality. Sarsour's experiences leading the Women's March further solidified her commitment to advocating for intersectional justice, understanding that liberation for one group is intrinsically linked to the liberation of all.

Interconnected Struggles for Fairness

Sarsour recounts how the killing of Eric Garner in Staten Island and Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, opened her eyes to the widespread nature of police violence and the urgent need to address systemic racism in America. She draws parallels between the law enforcement surveillance and harassment experienced by Muslims following the September 11th attacks and the over-policing and brutality faced by Black and Brown communities. This understanding led her to become actively involved in Black Lives Matter.

Author Forges Alliances to Amplify Community Input and Power

Through her experiences with the New York Justice League and other social justice organizations, Sarsour learned the importance of working across racial and religious lines to build a more just society. She emphasizes the need for holding law enforcement accountable and for reforming a system that disproportionately targets marginalized communities. Sarsour stresses the power of collective action, recounting examples of demonstrations, rallies, and parades that brought together diverse groups to demand justice and systemic change.

Sarsour's involvement in organizing the #March2Justice, a six-day march between New York City and Washington, DC, further solidified her commitment to intersectional justice. The march, organized in response to the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner, brought together people of different faiths and backgrounds to fight for police accountability and an end to racial profiling. Sarsour recounts their experiences while traveling through communities where Confederate flags were prominently displayed and encountering hostility from some residents, highlighting the stark realities of American racial bias. The group's journey underscores the power of solidarity and the persistence of those working towards a more just and equitable society.

Context

• Engaging with diverse groups requires understanding and respecting different cultural backgrounds and religious practices, which can foster trust and collaboration.
• Marginalized communities often face higher rates of incarceration, harsher sentencing, and a lack of trust in law enforcement, which can lead to underreporting of crimes and a cycle of disenfranchisement.
• The effectiveness of collective action often relies on media coverage, which can bring national or international attention to specific issues.
• Their deaths were pivotal in the Black Lives Matter movement, highlighting systemic issues of police violence against Black individuals in the United States. These cases became symbols of the broader struggle against racial injustice.
• Participants faced logistical challenges, such as securing food, shelter, and medical support, highlighting the dedication and resilience required for sustained activism.
• Hostility towards the marchers may have stemmed from differing views on race relations, law enforcement, and the legacy of the Confederacy in American history.
• Intersectionality refers to the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender, which can lead to overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. This concept is crucial in understanding how diverse groups can unite for common causes.

Linda Sarsour's Role Leading the International Campaign for Equity and Inclusion

Sarsour highlights her role in planning the Washington, D.C., Women's March, a global movement advocating women's equality and rights. Initially concerned by the exclusion of Muslim women from the march, Sarsour joined the organizing committee to ensure the inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives. She worked tirelessly to build relationships with organizations representing a wide range of interests, focusing on creating a platform that addressed intersectional issues impacting women across all racial, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Author Elevates Marginalized Voices During Women's Protest

Sarsour details the challenges and triumphs of organizing such a large-scale and diverse event. She recounts the difficult conversations on racial issues that were necessary to ensure that the event addressed the specific concerns of marginalized communities. She highlights her efforts to secure funding for essential resources like accessibility accommodations, interpreters for American Sign Language, and medical services, allowing every woman to fully participate.

The author recounted the joy of seeing women worldwide taking part in the Women’s March. She stresses the significance of having Muslim women represented in that space, sharing how her speech was an opportunity to reclaim the narrative surrounding Muslims and to showcase their commitment to social justice and equality. The author emphasizes the power of collective action, reminding readers that ordinary people, through their dedication and collaboration, can create extraordinary moments of change.

Practical Tips

• Start a local initiative to map out the specific needs of marginalized groups in your area by conducting informal surveys or interviews. Use free online survey tools to collect data and then share the findings with local organizations and policymakers to advocate for change. This grassroots approach can lead to tailored solutions that address the unique challenges faced by these communities.
• Create a "conversation starter" toolkit with questions and topics that can help initiate discussions on racial issues with friends, family, or colleagues. This toolkit could include current events, historical facts, personal anecdotes, or hypothetical scenarios. For instance, you might include a question like, "How do you think our different backgrounds affect our perspectives on this news story?"
• Consider donating to crowdfunding campaigns that focus on providing medical services in underserved areas. Your contribution, however small, can help fund mobile clinics, vaccination drives, or health education programs, directly impacting the availability of essential medical services for those in need.
• Encourage local businesses to support women's causes by creating a "cause day" where a percentage of sales is donated to organizations that were represented at the Women's March. By partnering with these businesses, you can help raise funds and awareness for the causes you care about. You might approach a local cafe or bookstore and propose the idea, ensuring that the business also gets recognition for their support.
• Volunteer with organizations that support Muslim women's rights and inclusion in your community. By offering your time and skills, you contribute to creating a more inclusive environment. Look for local non-profits that focus on interfaith dialogue, women's empowerment, or refugee assistance, and inquire about how you can get involved without needing any specialized skills.
• You can start a personal blog to share stories and experiences that highlight the positive impact of Muslims in your community. By writing about local Muslim-led initiatives, charity events, or individual acts of kindness, you create a narrative that reflects the values of social justice and equality. For example, interview a Muslim neighbor who organizes a food drive and share their story on your blog.
• Use a peer-to-peer recognition system in your workplace to highlight collaborative efforts. Create a simple "kudos" board, either physical or digital, where coworkers can post notes of appreciation for team members who contribute to group projects or help others. This encourages a culture of recognition for collective action and can motivate further collaborative efforts.

Writer's Role as National Figure: Impact on Family and Social Groups

This section explores the impact of Sarsour's activism on her family, both in the US and in Palestine, along with her own evolution as a national figure. She reflects on the ways her journey reflects the hopes, dreams, and struggles of her immigrant parents and how her rise to prominence as an American Muslim activist has inspired a new generation of young people to challenge injustice and advocate for a more inclusive society.

Muslim American Activist's Rise to National Prominence

Sarsour reflects on her rise to prominence as a prominent figure, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs that have accompanied her journey. She acknowledges the fear and uncertainty that she has faced, both as a Muslim woman living in the post-9/11 era and as a vocal advocate for social justice in an increasingly polarized political climate. Sarsour also highlights the tremendous support and solidarity she's received from her family, friends, and movement allies, who have empowered her to remain strong despite adversity.

How the Author Boldly Embraced Her Identity Amidst Oppression and Anti-Muslim Sentiment

The author details the significance of claiming her identity as an American woman of the Muslim faith, especially when confronting Islamophobia and discrimination. Sarsour recounts her choice to adopt the hijab, describing it as representative of her faith and her commitment to living authentically. Despite her fear of potential backlash, she embraced her identity proudly and didn't allow herself to be silenced. This courageous act has inspired countless women and girls who are Muslim to defend their rights and to challenge negative stereotypes about their faith.

Sarsour emphasizes that refusing to be silenced is crucial. She encourages readers to speak up in opposition to injustice and inequality, regardless of potential consequences. This unwavering commitment to truth and justice has made Sarsour an influential voice for change and a role model for young activists across the country.

Context

• The author’s emphasis on identity is closely tied to activism, as asserting one's identity can be a form of resistance against systemic oppression and a way to mobilize others for social change.
• For many women, wearing the hijab is a personal decision that reflects their individual beliefs and values. It can be an expression of identity and autonomy, challenging societal norms and expectations.
• After events like 9/11, there was a significant rise in anti-Muslim sentiment in the United States, leading to increased discrimination and prejudice against Muslim communities.
• Positive representation in media and public discourse can counteract negative stereotypes, and figures like Sarsour play a crucial role in reshaping perceptions of Muslim women.
• Speaking up can empower individuals and communities, fostering a sense of agency and resilience against discrimination.
• In many democratic societies, freedom of speech is a protected right, allowing individuals to express their views and challenge injustices without fear of government retaliation.
• She participates in educational programs and workshops that aim to inform and equip individuals with the tools needed to combat discrimination and promote social justice.
• Her personal story of overcoming adversity and standing firm in her beliefs serves as an inspiring example for young people facing their own challenges.

Activism's Impact on the Writer's Relatives in Palestine

Sarsour describes how her activism has been a source of inspiration and pride for her relatives back home. Her grandparents, cousins, and extended family have watched her journey with a mixture of awe and admiration, seeing in her a reflection of their own hopes and dreams for a more just and equitable world. Sarsour highlights the profound impact of her speech at the Women's March on her family, particularly for her grandmother, who watched it live from El Bireh.

Activism Inspires Family, Embodying Their Dreams and Struggles

Sarsour recounts the emotional time she connected with her grandmother and learned how much her speech had meant. Her grandmother's tears of joy and pride symbolized a generation's yearning for recognition and validation, a testament to the resilience and determination of a people who had faced decades of oppression and dispossession. The writer's activism became a tangible expression of her family's dreams for a world free from injustice and inequality, a world where Palestinian voices would not only be heard but celebrated.

This connection to Palestine further underscores Sarsour's commitment to defending the dignity and freedom of every marginalized community. She emphasizes that the struggle for justice is a global one, and that the liberation of Palestinian people is intrinsically linked to the liberation of all those facing oppression and discrimination.

Context

• In many Middle Eastern cultures, family and community are central. Activism that aligns with family values and aspirations can be seen as fulfilling a collective cultural and familial duty.
• Recognition and validation are fundamental human needs. For communities that have faced systemic marginalization, these needs are often unmet, making moments of acknowledgment deeply significant.
• Personal stories, like those of Sarsour’s family, can humanize political issues, making them more relatable and compelling to broader audiences. This can be a powerful tool in advocacy and raising awareness.
• Her approach often involves building coalitions across different social movements, understanding that collective action can amplify voices and create more substantial change.
• The idea of global justice includes the belief that solutions should be inclusive and equitable, ensuring that marginalized voices are central in decision-making processes.

Author's Commitment to Social Justice and Campaigns for Racial and Police Accountability

This final section focuses on Sarsour's ongoing work as a societal advocate. Throughout this chapter, she demonstrates her awareness that the struggle for justice is a continuous one requiring vigilance, persistent effort, and unwavering belief in a better future. Her actions, from leading protests against police brutality to speaking out for DACA recipients and undocumented immigrants, illustrate her commitment to creating a society that truly values all people.

The Writer's Commitment to Racial Equity: Support for Black Lives Matter (BLM)

Sarsour details her involvement in the BLM campaign, highlighting her conviction that the struggle for racial justice must be at the forefront of any efforts to create a just society. She describes her experiences marching alongside Black organizers, learning from their lived experiences, and witnessing firsthand the disproportionate violence and harassment they face from law enforcement. Sarsour emphasizes the importance of non-Black allies showing up and taking action, recognizing the power of solidarity in combating systemic racism.

Amplifying Black Communities' Stories Against Police Violence and Racism

Sarsour recounts her participation in the #March2Justice, a six-day journey between New York City and Washington, DC, highlighting its focus on amplifying the voices of Black communities impacted by police violence. The march allowed her to connect with families who had loved ones killed by police brutality and hear their demands for systemic change in how police interact with Black communities.

Sarsour also emphasizes the emotional toll the march took, particularly after the group received news of Freddie Gray's death while detained by police in Baltimore. Witnessing the grief and anger of Black residents grappling with yet another tragedy solidified her commitment to championing their rights. She details how she watched her friend and fellow activist Tamika Mallory's courage as she stepped in to de-escalate a tense situation during a protest in Baltimore, using empathy and love to defuse a potentially explosive encounter with law enforcement, highlighting Tamika's ability to form connections and speak truth to power.

Context

• The march covered approximately 250 miles, symbolizing the long journey toward justice and equality for marginalized communities.
• Improving interactions involves building trust between police and communities, which can be achieved through community policing strategies, bias training, and increased transparency and accountability.
• The march was a form of peaceful protest, a common tactic in civil rights movements to demand policy changes and raise awareness.
• The news of Gray's death likely intensified the marchers' resolve and solidarity, as it underscored the immediate relevance and necessity of their advocacy efforts for systemic change.
• Activists like Sarsour often work in solidarity with Black-led movements, recognizing the importance of centering Black voices and experiences in the fight for racial justice.
• De-escalation involves strategies to reduce tension and prevent conflict from escalating. It often requires strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Women like Tamika Mallory have played pivotal roles in social justice movements, often bringing unique perspectives and leadership styles that emphasize collaboration, empathy, and resilience.

The Writer's Role in Campaigns for Police Accountability, Such as the Breonna Taylor Justice Fight

Sarsour describes her work on national campaigns for law enforcement accountability and her personal involvement in high-profile cases like Breonna Taylor's. She recounts her experiences traveling to Louisville, Kentucky, where she connected with Breonna's family and worked alongside activists fighting for justice. Sarsour details the strategies they employed, ranging from nonviolent demonstrations to direct actions and nonviolent resistance, highlighting the need for ongoing pressure on police and elected officials to bring about meaningful change. She also reflects on the broader movement to reform policing, emphasizing the need to address systemic racism and to create a culture of accountability within policing institutions.

Author's Commitment to Defying the Law and Risking Arrest to Promote Justice in Cases of Police Violence

Sarsour recounts her experiences organizing and participating in protests demanding justice for Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, actions that often involved civilly disobeying. She highlights her willingness to be arrested alongside other activists, underscoring her message that silence when confronted with injustice is a form of complicity. Sarsour also details her efforts to educate and activate young people, encouraging them to become active participants in the movement for justice and police accountability. Her commitment to direct action and her willingness to risk arrest serve as a powerful reminder that bringing about meaningful change often requires bold and brave steps.

Practical Tips

• Start a local book club focused on literature by authors who are activists or who write about social justice to educate and inspire action within your community. By selecting books that delve into the themes of justice and equality, and organizing regular discussions, you're creating an informed and engaged group that could potentially collaborate on community initiatives or support existing movements. For instance, each month, the club could read a different book and then volunteer together at a related local organization.
• Create a personal code of conduct for protest participation that aligns with your values and boundaries. This could include non-violent actions you are willing to take, the level of risk you're comfortable with, and the causes you support. Having a clear set of guidelines can help you stay focused and act consistently during protests.
• Start a community bail fund to assist those who choose civil disobedience and face arrest. By pooling resources with others in your community, you can create a fund that helps pay bail for activists who are arrested during protests. This not only provides immediate support but also strengthens the community's ability to sustain long-term activism.
• Start a monthly donation habit to organizations that fight against the injustices you're concerned about. Even a small, consistent contribution can make a difference, and it's a tangible way to ensure your silence isn't complicity. Research groups that align with your values and set up automatic payments to support their work.
• Develop a simple email newsletter to share information about local cases requiring public attention or action. Use a free email marketing tool to curate content that highlights ongoing issues in your community, ways to support affected families, and updates on police accountability measures, encouraging subscribers to stay informed and engaged.
• Develop a skill swap platform within your community to exchange services without monetary transactions. For example, if you're good at web design and someone else can teach guitar, swap an hour of your time for an hour of theirs. This encourages community members to take direct action by using their skills to help others, fostering a sense of empowerment and interdependence.
• Volunteer as a legal observer at protests to safeguard participants' rights and document any injustices. By doing this, you become a crucial part of the justice system, ensuring that the rights of protesters are respected and that any potential abuses are recorded. Legal observer programs often provide the necessary training, which means you don't need a legal background to contribute.