Allison Lewin’s Post

Tonight’s presidential debate between Biden and Trump once again underscores a troubling reality: mainstream media systematically excludes other voices from the national conversation. This includes candidates like Dr. Jill Stein and Dr. Cornel West, who are shut out because the establishment fears they might inspire Americans to break free from the two-party system that has controlled our politics for far too long. These tactics rely on fear to manipulate voters, keeping us trapped in a cycle of choosing the lesser of two evils. It’s time to recognize that neither Biden nor Trump offers real or sustainable solutions for America, and definitely not for the Black community. For the Black community, the evidence is clear: Biden and the Democratic Party has fallen short on every promise to Black people. Trump’s administration and the republicans, meanwhile, exacerbate racial tensions and fail to address systemic inequalities. According to the Economic Policy Institute, the racial wealth gap remains vast, with the median wealth of white families being nearly ten times that of Black families. Dr. Jill Stein is on 23 ballots and has enough electoral votes to win if she picks the right running mate and gains the necessary momentum. Despite some differences in platforms, both she and Dr. Cornel West present safer, more hopeful alternatives for the American people. It's crucial for us to do our own research and make informed decisions. The time has come for every person, everywhere to reclaim our power and stop letting the minority control the majority. We deserve leaders who truly represent our interests, not those who perpetuate a broken system. It’s crucial that we get it right this year. Do the research, be an independent thinker, and vote for what’s best for world peace and sustainability for all✌🏿 #Debate2024 #BreakTheDuopoly #VoteSmart #DrCornelWest #DrJillStein #SteinWest2024 #PresidentialCampaign

Whether you’re a Democrat or Republican (I’m neither), Barack Obama’s speech at the DNC last night was a lovely reminder that there’s more that unites us than divides us. “I am feeling hopeful because this convention has always been pretty good to kids with funny names who believe in a country where anything is possible. ” He was also quick to point out slacktivism through memes: ”For all the incredible energy we’ve been able to generate over the last few weeks, for all the rallies and the memes, this will still be a tight race in a closely divided country.” Obama recalled Lincoln’s “bonds of affection” on the eve of civil war and “the better angels of our nature.” At a grass-roots level, this is called calling-in rather than calling-out. We need to be mindful of our words and the mutual respect we show others. We have to roll up our sleeves and continue to build this country, because we cannot take democracy for granted. “Democracy isn’t just a bunch of abstract principles and dusty laws in some book somewhere. It’s the values we live by. It’s the way we treat each other, including those who don’t look like us or pray like us or see the world exactly like we do.” He injected humor along the way, but Obama called out some lazy tendencies on both sides. “Our politics have become so polarized these days that all of us across the political spectrum seem so quick to assume the worst in others unless they agree with us on every single issue. We start thinking that the only way to win is to scold and shame and out-yell the other side. And after a while, regular folks just tune out, or they don’t bother to vote. “Now that approach may work for the politicians who just want attention and thrive on division, but it won’t work for us. To make progress on the things we care about, the things that really affect people’s lives, we need to remember that we’ve all got our blind spots and contradictions and prejudices. And that if we want to win over those who aren’t yet ready to support our candidates, we need to listen to their concerns and maybe learn something in the process. “After all, if a parent or grandparent occasionally says something that makes us cringe, we don’t automatically assume they’re bad people. We recognize that the world is moving fast, that they need time and maybe a little encouragement to catch up. Our fellow citizens deserve the same grace we hope they’ll extend to us. That’s how we can build a true Democratic majority, one that can get things done.” I don’t care who you vote for and intentionally did not include either candidate in this post because it’s not about them. It’s about US and the future of the United States of America. Yes we can totally just avoid talking about politics, race, religion, etc. so that everyone is comfortable, but I think this speech reminds us that we can still have difficult conversations AND hold on to hope for all the things that make America great.

Inherited Passion of politics. Politics, the pulsating heartbeat of societal change, has always been an integral part of my family's narrative. From spirited dinner table debates to fervent discussions around the fireplace, the echoes of political discourse have reverberated through the corridors of our home, shaping our perspectives and igniting our passions. As I reflect on the profound influence of politics in my family's life, I am compelled to explore the roots of our shared interest and the enduring legacy it has bestowed upon us. For as long as I can remember, politics has been a cornerstone of family gatherings and intergenerational dialogue. Raised in an environment steeped in civic engagement and social responsibility, I was exposed to the power of advocacy and activism from an early age. Whether attending rallies, volunteering for campaigns, or simply engaging in lively discussions over Sunday brunch, my family instilled in me a deep-seated belief in the power of collective action and the imperative of civic participation. One of the most enriching aspects of our family's political discourse is the diversity of perspectives that we bring to the table. With members hailing from different generations, backgrounds, and ideological leanings, our conversations are a vibrant tapestry of contrasting viewpoints and nuanced insights. While disagreements may arise, they are always met with respect and curiosity, as we collectively strive to broaden our understanding and challenge our preconceptions. In conclusion, the nexus of family and politics has been a defining feature of my upbringing, shaping not only my worldview but also my sense of purpose and agency in the world. As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of political discourse, I am grateful for the enduring influence of my family's legacy and the opportunity to carry forward its torch of activism and advocacy into the future.

James Caan has employed the phrase 'observe the masses and do the opposite' for many years to great effect. It basically means don't give in to the herd instinct, stay aware of what's going on, pick your shot to do something about it and find your place. If you want to learn about how you can set clear goals and make them come true, follow James Caan. We started with nothing and 7 years later sold a recruitment business to an NYSE traded Fortune 500. We were and are not miracle workers, but we set on an idea--bring executive recruitment to the mass market. No one has done it outside the USA--and built a terrific team and worldwide organization--zero to $80mm. I still pinch myself at the thought of it! Thank you James. That's why I believe my standing up now to run for Congress will work, but I need your support. Please stand up! This is a national and global campaign. Whereever you live in the world, we are all in this together. HTTP://bugiecentral.com If you are American, you can donate to help me spread my message of hope and compromise. You can't donate if not...BUT if you live in another country, you 'll have American friends and relatives who can help. I need you! I need them! Stand up! The stakes are high and time is running short. Let's roll!

"The worse the cellphone coverage is, the nicer people are. It's just that simple," said Emanuel — former Chicago mayor, Democratic congressman and White House chief of staff. "If it's spotty, people are actually decent." Why it matters: Emanuel was part of a flood of reaction to yesterday's "Behind the Curtain" column on America's reality distortion machine, Jim VandeHei and Mike Allen write. On almost every topic of outrage, the column points out, fringe views and edge cases are being shamelessly amplified by social media and politicians. Rarely do we hear from across the political spectrum, in real time, that an article has resonated so deeply — and made a point everyone should reckon with. "Polarization is a choice, not a destiny," Steven Law, a longtime GOP insider who runs the Senate Leadership Fund super PAC, told us after tweeting his agreement with the column. "It's amplified by what the media chooses to highlight and what it finds uninteresting. For the rest of us, it's fed by choosing to stick with our tribe instead of being open to other people and perspectives, even if they make us uncomfortable." A longtime Democrat agrees. Kalee Kreider — a former aide to Al Gore who' is now president of the Ridgely|Walsh advisory firm, and lives on a farm outside Nashville — says America isn't as divided as we think. "I am a member of one of the oldest churches in Tennessee, Bethlehem Church of Christ, and my community is called Tuckers Crossroads," she told us. "I dearly love my neighbors. And while I feel sure that most of the people who live near me are Republicans, we honestly just don't talk about it much." Discussing the column on "Morning Joe," Jim said that if you're living on X or TikTok, "people who have the loudest voices, who often say the most provocative things, tend to dominate that conversation. And it leaves you thinking: 'Wait, does everyone think this? Does everyone feel this? Is everyone so worked up that they're maybe about to conduct a civil war to defend their party versus the other?'" "And you realize: No! Most people actually have a life. Most people aren't making politics of the beer you drink or the store that you shop at." Willie Geist said during the "Joe" conversation that he calls this under-covered majority "normies." The New Yorker's Evan Osnos, who interviewed President Biden in the Oval Office in January, told us: "We have way more in common than the fringe on either side would suggest. One other person who believes this: Joe Biden." The bottom line: We'll end where we ended Monday's column — with a thought experiment. In a given year, you meet scores or more people you spend enough time with to appraise their character. How many do you think are decent, normal people who do volunteer work, help shovel after a storm, look out for family and neighbors?

THE FEARLESS FUND AND THE FEDERALISTS Both envision two very different Americas. Each is working toward building the society they want to pass to future generations. We all inherited a polarized 20th century society of racialized segregationist laws, economic systems, public policies and private sector practices that none of us created. But we also inherited a responsibility for the society we will pass on to future generations. Will we sustain the status quo or reconstruct a more equitable and Inclusive America? How would you describe the societal conditions of the America you want to build for future generations? This is the issue we dive into in this month's CGC Journal ... just in time for FREEDOM DAY! (Juneteenth, for those who don't know)

This is what I want for all women. And I'm here to help them get there. May we all be 84-years-old one day, telling powerful men, "We can do this the easy way, or we can do it the hard way" and having them fall into line. 💪 What I'd add, though, is what Pelosi leveraged in this negotiation was not just power, but status. This is a distinction that we don't make as often as we should, because haven't been told about the difference. Power is being in control. Status is being respected by others. Pelosi may not have had the power to make Biden step aside, but she does have respect. Because of that, she's influential - even when she doesn't have the authority. Having status is a superpower. And women can build their status so that they have more than any man in the room. Pelosi is just one example of that. My forthcoming book, Likeable Badass, is about the science of status - why it matters and how women get more of it. It's our time, ladies. Let's make the most of it. #whatinspiresme #personaldevelopment #influence

Attention Women Business Owners-this one is for you! Register here for the webinar today at 12:00 pm ET-https://lnkd.in/eq5sqXFe When people think about “politics”, they often immediately jump to thinking about all the preconceptions related to Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Green Party members and more. However, there's a big difference between “politics” and “public policy”. Public policy includes the laws and governmental actions that make it easier or harder to start, run and grow your business. Join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn 🍲💼 Topic: Influencing What Public Policy, Legal Changes and Related Incentives Will Be Impacting Your Business This Year Speaker: Emily Parks Date: Tuesday, March 5, 2024 Time: 12-1pm (eastern time) Free registration Attend this online presentation to demystify hard-hitting topics from the news and translate public policy tools into resources for bolstering your business, directly affecting what public policy is rolled out in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. You'll garner 5 easy ways to use your voice as well as resources to aid your efforts in utilizing available public policy for your business’ benefit. Sign up at ✍ www.nawbodc.com/events hashtag #nawbodc hashtag #advocacy hashtag #lunchandlearn hashtag #publicpolicy"

Our #PassTheTorchJoe2024 movement is gaining momentum. If you care that a Democrat defeats Donald Trump in November, please take 10 mins to help make this movement real. Because of our pressure, President Biden is now seriously considering withdrawing from the race and passing the torch to the next generation of Democratic leaders. Even for President Biden, his only care is to defeat Donald Trump in November. Imagine a 6-week primary where 4-6 solid candidates debate, give interviews, talk to ordinary Americans across the country in order to earn the nominee for President? This can happen if Joe passes the torch. Let's keep the heat on. Participate in any way you can. An easy way is to sign this petition (https://lnkd.in/gDgMSqQF; photo below) and send a copy to our Democratic leadership (links below). Thank you!! If you want a solid 10 min read on the topic - read "If Trump Wants To Be King, Then Biden Should Be George Washington and Give Up a Potential 2nd Term," here - https://lnkd.in/gJ3hnz4h LINKS AND LETTER TO DEMOCRAT LEADERSHIP President: https://lnkd.in/gAd96Hx5 VP: https://lnkd.in/gKeUTBCi Sen. Schumer: https://lnkd.in/gXjGvrzn Leader Jeffries: https://lnkd.in/guEXTA-H Jamie Harrison, DNC chair: https://lnkd.in/g9XkGNpY Dear ____________ - please urge President Biden to #PassTheTorch! Please urge President Biden withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, giving the next generation of Democratic leaders the platform to defeat Donald Trump and solidify his legacy of 50 years of civil service and leadership as the 46th President of the United States of America. It is so important for a Democrat to defeat Donald Trump in November, to continue progress on crucial issues like the economy and jobs, healthcare and reproductive rights, climate change and investment in America’s future, appointing new Supreme Court justices, national security, supporting Ukraine against Russia, stability in the Middle East, managing relations with China, and addressing immigration. To lead us back to the middle and to reasonable respectful productive discourse. Unfortunately, respectfully, and with immense gratitude and admiration for all President Biden has done for America, he is no longer that Democrat. For the future of our planet and our country, for ordinary Americans, for me and my children and their childrens’ children, please, influence President Biden to #PassTheTorch and let the Democratic leadership run a process to select the next President and Vice President of the USA! His decision to #PassTheTorch will match his selfless lifelong commitment to represent the views, hopes, and values of ordinary Americans. Sincerely, [your name here]

Sure, I would love for Melinda French Gates to use her new freedom (and cash) to give us a hand. But in the meantime, I am here for Julie Bort's sharp commentary on a lesser-discussed (but broadly felt) reality of how even the agreements that get folks out of toxic, often discriminatory, workplaces kick them in the a** on the way out the door. Let's stop conditioning a humane exit on non-disparagement and non-disclosure provisions. Let's talk to our allies about what we make (because let's be real, you won't know if it ain't enough unless you have real benchmarks). And here's a crazy idea: if you work in the civil rights space in WA or CA - consider this my plea to you to put out free, comprehensive resources for employees on each state's "Silenced No More Act" (RCW 49.44.211 and SB 331). We (yes, even I) don't know enough about these laws designed to protect us. We (yes, even I) are still afraid to speak freely. In Julie Bort's words: "Think how the threat of outspeak could push humans in positions of power to build cultures that didn’t need outing." https://lnkd.in/dt4_agmX