Theme: Persist Together, Inspire 

This was not just a banquet to eat and to hear speakers. There was an opportunity for hundreds of people and organizations to network. 4comculture took the opportunity to place whistles on all the tables. [If you want to know what the whistles were about hit the link: https://4comculture.com/building-a-whistle-campaign] At our table it was a great opportunity to share with volunteers with the League of Women Voters and La Prensa, Spokane’s Latino newspaper.

SPEAKERS

Laurel Fish, Senior Organizer, Spokane Alliance

Good afternoon. I see lots of familiar faces. As Gary said, my name is Laurel Fish, and my – I’m the senior organizer for the Spokane Alliance. My own formation as an organizer comes from a few different places. It comes from being the granddaughter of Jewish refugees, comes from experiences working in solidarity with Salvadoran communities, and experiences organizing alongside immigrant hotel and hospitality workers in the labor movement.

The Spokane Alliance, which far predates me, is a broad-based coalition of thirty-eight institutions, faith communities, labor unions, and nonprofits organizing for the common good. We’ve been doing this work for over two decades, but a lot of people don’t know about it because it’s not sexy. It’s not flashy. Developing everyday people as leaders in our democracy, bringing institutions together to hash out their differences, and stand up for their values, and figuring out what people actually want to do to change our community is not the headline-grabbing work that you’d think it would be. A civil rights leader, Ella Baker, said, “It’s spade work. It’s slow and steady.” It’s about persisting together. And The Fig Tree is geared towards sharing those stories.

For example, we can all acknowledge that housing is a major pressure in our community, but it has taken our lay-led housing team over a year of researching solutions, meeting with developers, studying policy, talking to business people, wrestling with how to create policy to start to come up with an idea for publicly financed housing in Spokane, right? And it’s just the beginning.

When I think about our work with the immigrant community, you might have read about the event at First Presbyterian Church, where the Haitian community shared testimony on the eve of the end of their temporary protected status. There were over four hundred and fifty people that packed the church that night. It was an exciting moment, but that public moment was preceded by years and months of hard work and relationship building by Luke, and Katia, and their dad, and Pastor Emily and Daniel Roberts, right? Many people here -that’s what it took. It wasn’t about the moment itself. It was about the persistence that comes afterwards and meeting the next day, the next month, the next year.

And that’s why I appreciate the work of The Fig Tree. They write about people and our motivations and the institutions that we are a part of. I talk a lot about institutions. They get a bad rap, but I think about them as the churches, unions, synagogues, organizations that have stood up for families for reforms like child labor laws, like a minimum wage, like workers’ compensation. They have created, and the people that are part of them have created, everyday miracles of sheltering, nourishing, and humanizing each other.

From my own perspective, my family has weathered some storms recently, and it has taken both strong public policy and strong communities to keep my family intact, right? It has taken paid family medical leave and union health coverage and the state childcare subsidy, and it’s taken grandparents. Thank you, Mom, for helping raise our kids. It’s taken friends picking them up from school. It’s taken colleagues reminding me to eat. All of those, it’s taken institutions and our families to figure out how we shelter and nourish and humanize each other.

Relationships begin by knowing each other’s stories, and I believe that’s what The Fig Tree does. The Fig Tree stories are, for me, a resource guide for the gifts and talents in this community. They’re a starting point for stirring our curiosity about each other, which allows us to act together. Thank you.

Luc Jasmine III, Eastern Washington Governor’s Representative

I want to start off by saying I’m not supposed to be here. I remember sitting in high school, and a teacher told us that most Black men do not make it past twenty-six without being dead or incarcerated. Remember, I was an adolescent hearing this. That comment felt like the heaviest weight ever landing on top of me. It felt that way until I got home. I remember asking my parents, “We are Black, immigrant, and everything is so hard. Even though we’re good people, the statistics show we will not make it. So why do we keep going? Why don’t we give up?” My mom, without hesitation, said in Creole, “Bon Dieu and community.” God and community. Then, just like my mom, she walked off. 

Fast-forward today, I fully understand what she meant. There’s so much fear right now. There’s so much to be exhausted by. There’s so many moments where giving up feels like the only logical choice. I look around at rooms like these and see people like you showing up for organizations like The Fig Tree. It energizes me, and it brings me back to that persistence my parents have modeled. Persistence in work, persistence in faith, persistence in love. Somewhere today, a kid will walk into a church, a clinic, a food bank. They will pick up a copy of The Fig Tree. They will see my face, someone who looks like them, someone who keeps going, and that kid will know they can keep going on, too. That moment will happen because of you. Thank you.

LaRae Wiley, Colville Confederated Tribes, Former Director of the Salish School of Spokane

I am going to call up my translator. I really want you to hear our language because it’s beautiful. It’s really critically endangered, so I want you to be able to hear:  hear it and hear the sounds, and then I’m gonna share a song too. 

Hello, I am  N̓ʔiy̓sítaʔtkʷ the water woman, and I am a leader at Salish School of Spokane. And this guy is Chris, the principal, and he takes care of the finances and the school and the kids. And that’s my husband, too. He’s a good man.

The Fig Tree has really helped us. Even when we were small, there was just a few of us down in that basement with a few kids. And that Mary and the Fig Tree helped me, and they’re still helping me. In helping the school, helping us tell our story and to get the word out. And so thank you so much. You’ve done well by us Fig Tree. 

I want to sing for you an honor song – a good way to honor your good heart at the Fig Tree. 

Reverend David Gortner, Rector, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Greetings, everyone, and what a joy to gather together as people eager to make a difference. I’ve had the honor and joy of serving on the board of the Fig Tree for four years, and I continue to be impressed with the care, dedication, and energy of its staff and volunteers. I’m grateful for the stories they share, the connections they build and strengthen, the resources and good work they highlight, and the positive influence they nurture here in our strange little corner of the world. 

I want to focus on those first two words of our theme, persist together. These are essential for the good of the world. To persist is to continue firmly and resolutely on a path through thick and thin, not just when it’s smooth sailing, but also when it’s hard, when there’s opposition, when there are barriers or challenges or intermittent failures. We in this room represent a wide range of organizations and groups making a difference in people’s lives, large and small, spiritually, emotionally, physically, relationally, environmentally, economically, educationally. 

And a key part of our work is persistence. That dogged showing up and offering what we can steadily and consistently. Building and rebuilding, strengthening and growing where we can. The Fig Tree has provided us at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Coeur d’Alene with opportunities to share some stories of ways we are trying to make a difference, large and small, as we persist in a challenging region. By how we model and provide space for courageous, caring conversations. By how we build purposeful partnerships with organizations like North Idaho College and the Human Rights Education Institute. By how we help people follow Jesus’s profound example of unwavering self-giving. That’s today, and we have persisted as the only church in recent years visibly supporting North Idaho College’s faculty and staff through what we might call the recent unpleasantness. 

I’m grateful for the ways that the Fig Tree has highlighted our work and the work of so many others. There’s a community being built through these shared stories, so we know we’re not alone, so we learn from each other, so we can form partnerships to persist together with creative passion. The Fig Tree and its resource directory lay out for us a menu of possibilities, but it’s up to us to take the next steps, to reach out and connect with others we haven’t met yet, to encourage each other, to explore ways we can strengthen our impact together. I encourage you to do that today with someone you don’t know. 

My wife and I experienced life-changing encounters with leaders of faith-informed organizations during our sabbatical this last summer in countries around the Mediterranean. You may have read about some of what we have to say. We’re going to continue to be saying some things. We’re happy to talk with you today more about the amazing work being done, just to highlight three countries, in Morocco, Spain, and Albania, that involve dedicated interfaith and intercultural partnerships and collaboration. The post-communist resurrection of religions in Albania is nothing short of miraculous. 

We came back inspired and eager to build similar partnerships here and to join with partnerships here. You’ll see columns from us in the months to come as we share insights and highlight some of those organizations to support, especially those that have been hurt by the dry up of USAID funding. These organizations in other countries are models for us, persisting, forging new partnerships together, and adapting to new realities. They’re not giving up. 

Persisting together begins with getting together like we are today and building relationships together. Yes, we need courage and passion and confidence to step forward. Yes, we need perseverance to stick it out and keep going. But even more, we need each other. So we need to bring a mix of curiosity, humility, and respect to every encounter with each other, to build up new relationships, to sustain and create partnerships, and to keep coming to the table and showing up and inviting others to the table. 

Together is a big word, so let’s let our tents stretch wide, and let’s continue to support The Fig Tree in its persistence of giving good voice to the good work being done across our communities, so people will know they’re not alone, that there are partners for the good work we’re all trying to do. We’re all seeking together to make miracles possible. Thank you.

The Fig Tree: Independent, nonprofit newspaper and resource directory in the Inland Northwest https://www.thefigtree.org/

It’s deeper than a black leather jacket, a black beret and a gun. Get the full story.

The Fuller Story – hit the link: My People Are Rising

See Aaron Dixon’s Advice for Contemporary Movements in Section 9 https://4comculture.com/my-people-are-rising

198 Methods of Nonviolent Action

Practitioners of nonviolent struggle have an entire arsenal of “nonviolent weapons” at their disposal. Click here to see 198 of them, classified into three broad categories: nonviolent protest and persuasion, noncooperation (social, economic, and political), and nonviolent intervention. A description and historical examples of each can be found in volume two of The Politics of Nonviolent Action, by Gene Sharp

To build coalitions and bridges beyond our own special interests:

1. Identify Common Goals: Successful coalitions often start with a clear understanding of the common goals and the necessity of collaboration. The process involves identifying the problems or goals that bring organizations together, understanding the community’s needs, and assembling a diverse group of stakeholders who can contribute to achieving the coalition’s objectives [7].
2. Engage Diverse Stakeholders: Include those most affected by the issue and leverage their unique perspectives and resources. This diversity can lead to more comprehensive and effective solutions.
3. Focus on Shared Interests: Cross-racial coalitions, for example, have been successful in addressing issues like voting rights and economic opportunities by focusing on shared interests or common threats [8].
4. Utilize Frameworks: Employ frameworks like the Health Impact Pyramid to assess local assets and challenges, coordinate activities, and monitor interventions effectively [9].
5. Promote Open Communication: Foster a culture of open dialogue and shared responsibility among coalition members to ensure all voices are heard and valued.

It’s imperative now more than ever before—to unite across divides—to resist tyranny where it manifests through oppressive ideologies fueled by greed, hatred, discrimination! We cannot allow fear, apathy and complacency to dictate outcomes anymore.

We stand at an inflection point demanding accountability, transparency and integrity from those wielding power. Our collective voices matter—they hold weight capable of shifting tides if harnessed correctly.

Rev Barber

The park is between Division and Normandie St., Garland and LaCrosse.

We Will Not Bow

Our demonstration of moral strength is in opposition to the tyranny that threatens our very existence as a country. And this kind of gathering can unite us, in a moral movement to save America. And we will not stand down, not now, not ever. 

What can these protests accomplish?

3100 protests across the nation busts through that bubble, that air of inevitability, that Trump is invincible, unstoppable. 

The protests are not just in large cities but communities in rural and red parts of the country.

They are organizing not only for March 28 but for what comes next.  

Standing in a crowd matters

but it’s not enough

on its own

This moment is about turning frustration into movement, concern into commitment. If you’ve been wondering what you can do, this is where you start.

NO KINGS 3

Take Action – Do Something

At B A Clark Park in Spokane:

Bring a relative, bring a friend, bring a neighbor!

Speakers will address issues that stood out in Indivisible surveys of where support, resources and action were actually needed – the environment, affordability, voting rights, immigration, racial injustice, and government corruption.

Over 35 organizations will have tables with opportunities to learn what is happening and where to plug in.

Stand Up For Our Country!

Stand Up For Our Rights!

Stand Up For Our Neighbors!

When the choice is tyranny or revolution, to keep your head in the sand is to choose tyranny. If you choose revolution the question is nonviolent or violent.

The Scenario

1. A presidential candidate has won the election and gained control over all branches of government.
2. The new administration refuses to follow court rulings and historical norms.
3. Democratic processes and checks and balances have broken down.
4. The leadership style is modeled after authoritarian regimes like Russia, North Korea, and China.

This situation represents a significant threat to democratic institutions and the rule of law, which are fundamental to a functioning democracy.

Can We Trust This Man?

Options for Grassroots Movements

In such a scenario, grassroots movements and civil society organizations face a critical decision: whether to accept the new regime or to resist. Based on historical examples and research on civil resistance, there are several potential courses of action:

Nonviolent revolutions have endured longer

1. Nonviolent Revolution

Historically, nonviolent revolutions have been more successful and led to more stable democratic outcomes than violent uprisings. Research by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan has shown that nonviolent campaigns are twice as likely to succeed as violent ones.

Strategies for nonviolent revolution could include:

a) Mass Mobilization: Organizing large-scale protests, strikes, and boycotts to demonstrate widespread opposition to the regime. This was effectively used in the Philippines People Power Revolution (1986) and the U.S. Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s).

b) Civil Disobedience: Engaging in coordinated acts of nonviolent resistance, such as sit-ins, blockades, or refusal to pay taxes. The Indian Independence Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi successfully employed these tactics.

c) Alternative Institutions: Creating parallel governance structures or “shadow governments” to challenge the legitimacy of the regime and provide essential services to the population.

d) International Solidarity: Appealing to international organizations and foreign governments for support and sanctions against the regime. This strategy was crucial in the South African Anti-Apartheid Movement.

2. Civic Engagement and Grassroots Organizing

Even in challenging political environments, there are legal and peaceful methods to resist authoritarianism:

a) Stakeholder Engagement: Identifying and mobilizing key stakeholders who can influence the political process.

b) Effective Communication: Using clear, consistent messaging to articulate grievances and demands.

c) Technology and Social Media: Leveraging digital platforms for organizing, information sharing, and mobilizing support.

d) Educational Interventions: Implementing programs to promote civic engagement and democratic values.

e) Building Trust and Relationships: Establishing networks of trust within communities to strengthen resistance efforts.

3. Seeking International Support

Grassroots movements can appeal to international democratic support systems and diplomatic channels:

a) International Organizations: Engaging with bodies like the UN, OSCE, and International IDEA to highlight democratic backsliding and seek support.

b) Foreign Diplomatic Pressure: Encouraging democratic nations to exert diplomatic pressure on the regime, similar to Sweden’s “Drive for Democracy” initiative.

c) NGO Partnerships: Collaborating with international NGOs like Freedom House to document and publicize human rights violations and democratic erosion.

Violent Revolution as a Last Resort

While violent revolution might seem like an option, it’s important to note that:

1. Violent uprisings are statistically less likely to succeed than nonviolent movements.
2. They often lead to prolonged conflict and instability.
3. Violent revolutions can delegitimize the movement in the eyes of both domestic and international observers.
4. They may provide justification for increased repression by the regime.

Conclusion

In the face of democratic breakdown and the rise of authoritarianism, grassroots movements have historically been most successful when employing nonviolent strategies. These strategies, combined with effective civic engagement and international support, offer the best chance for restoring democratic norms and institutions.

The choice between accepting tyranny and forming a revolution is a complex one, with significant consequences. However, the historical record suggests that nonviolent revolutions, when well-organized and widely supported, can be effective in challenging even the most entrenched authoritarian regimes.

It’s crucial for grassroots movements to carefully consider their options, build broad coalitions, and maintain a commitment to nonviolent tactics to maximize their chances of success and minimize the risk of further destabilization or violence.

When tyranny and revolution appear to be the choices, which do you think we ought to choose? The choice should be made with deep thought. If you keep your head in the sand and refuse to recognize the current conditions, you have chosen tyranny.

But if you choose revolution the question is nonviolent or violent.

War has been declared not only on marginalized people but our democracy. We are at a point in our history where we are moving rapidly toward tyranny. The presidential candidate won the election and has total control of all branches of government and refuses to follow any of the court rules and the historical norms. If the democratic process has fallen apart and checks and balances are not working, what are the choices of the grassroots? A non-violent revolution. This site seeks to bring a progressive perspective and activist strategies to meet the challenges in our communities.

We believe that no one will do it for us but us. We are not a large organization or institution. We are individuals doing the best we can with what we’ve got. We cannot do it alone. If you would like to share with 4comculture.com contact us at info@4comculture.com.

This site is always under construction.

In the wake of a Black Corrections Officer being abducted out of his car by seven ICE agents in Portland, Maine on Saturday, January 24, 2026, I have something to share with white people of good intention.

Dear White People,
            Here are some considerations I think you may find valuable:

1. Don’t wallow in your sense of helplessness. Do not decide there is nothing you can do. Coming to that conclusion is you giving yourself permission to do nothing, not even look for what you can do, when realistically, you’re more likely to have a range of options and the challenge will be how to optimize your time and effort. Until you find the “best” answer to that question, do something. Do not do nothing.

2. Recognize that your protests are important. Your efforts to resist and record are valuable. Things would be so much worse than they are now if you weren’t engaged in these actions.

3. That said, there’s still more to do.

4. In the face of white craziness, it is more important than ever that you examine your own systemic white skin privilege, so that you don’t inadvertently support those who hate you.

5. Yes, Black and Brown People need to be involved. Our assignments are different.

6. Recognize that Black and Brown People have been in this struggle for generations, while the majority of white people have sat back in their systemic white skin privileges and/or indulged their white fragility.

7. Consider that Systemic Whiteness messages that Black and Brown People only exist for a White agenda. White people may argue with each other about which white agenda, but there is tacit agreement on our worth being based on your agenda. 

8. Consider that our mutual White opposition wants Black and Brown People to get angry, stupid, and violent. They are hoping to provoke us into coming onto the front lines. This is part of their white agenda. It shouldn’t be part of yours. 

9. Recognize that when you stop telling each other (and Black and Brown People) what we “should be doing” (in your opinion), you become part of the solution.

10. Recognize that there is not enough of my Black self to plug in everywhere that I can be useful.

11. Remember that listening to understand is a good thing. *

12. It’s really okay if you are motivated by self-interest. Caring about me actually promotes and protects your prosperity and security. We are living in a Pastor Martin Niemoller moment in history.

Sincerely Denise K. Tuggle

PS: As I write this, there has been no further news on the unnamed Black Corrections Officer. He has been disappeared. Imo, this is reminiscent of Nazi Germany, the Russian Pogroms, historic US slave patrols, and secret police in various countries. 

*especially to Black Women, cause we been trying to keep you out of this mess for years, you damn fools! And yes, it gets tiresome.

See THE 14 PRINCIPLES at

https://4comculture.com/archives/14346