"Our hope is with us." ??

This week, we’re opening space for a vibrant patchwork of voices from our community to come together, reflecting on the state of the world and what’s calling to us now. Against the backdrop of the US election and the Māori hikoi to New Zealand’s capital in protest of the Treaty Principles Bill, a clear and resonant message is emerging: the time is now to come together, to hold each other, and to move forward collectively.

When we gathered this week to hold space, the sense of support and care in the room was palpable. Many shared how deeply they feel held in this community, how this connection strengthens them for the work ahead. Let’s carry this reminder with us—that even amidst the heaviness of the moment, we are not alone. Together, we are weaving something powerful and resilient, a collective answer to the challenges of our time. Let’s keep showing up for one another, hand in hand, voice by voice.

“Today, I wake up thinking what it means to have hope in systems that continue to fail us.”

“A significant number of us now see what has been obvious to a minority for some time: that the system is not broken - it is doing what it was always designed to do : which is to maintain power in the hands of a few white men.”

“I am aiming for community that values the environment and safe places for women and children, for the right to participate and to be heard and understood, for clean air and places to play, learn, create. My hunch is I am not alone with these wants and plenty of people from all across political landscapes want the same things.”

“The current situation underlines the ongoing need for systemic change to honor that promise fully.”

“Remember : It's okay to not be okay. It's okay to cancel meetings. It's okay to stress-clean your entire house. It's okay to cry in the shower. It's okay to feel lost. It's okay to be angry. It's okay to need space. It's okay to crave community. Our hope isn't with systems or institutions. Our hope is with us.”

“Feel all of your feelings . I am your sister and I am insisting that you do this for your own well-being and for the well-being of our community. Acknowledge and make room for the feelings that arise, knowing your community is here experiencing and holding them with you. Allow them to metabolize within you and become nourishment for the long road ahead of us.”

And, “if you are hurting as much as I am right now, [this is] worth reading.”

“Our allegiances should ultimately reflect the highest ideals of what humans can be to one another."

Thank you Susie Pan Moira Were AM Lindsey Lerner Rachel J. Robasciotti pk mutch Denise Hearn for your words ??