Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We are experiencing a watershed moment in our nation’s history—one that is marked by courage and transformative change. We have just witnessed a sitting President step aside, prioritizing unity over ego and divisive politics. In doing so, the door has been opened for a new leadership that champions the fight against white supremacy, misogyny, and patriarchy. This is a call to action for all of us to engage in the critical work of organizing for social, racial, gender and economic justice. President Biden’s decision is fearless and selfless, demonstrating that progress requires us to take risks.
Let’s be honest: greatness never emerges from the comfort of complacency. As I always say, “If we’re comfortable, we’re doing it wrong.” Social change demands courage because our adversaries are relentless in their attempts to intimidate us and convince us that obedience to an unjust system is more important than fighting for our needs. But here at NJCU, we refuse to accept that narrative—and we know that when we fight, we win.
Make no mistake: Vice President Kamala Harris embodies the future. She stands as a powerful symbol for women; Black women, Women of Color, immigrant women, and Latinas—the very backbone of our membership at NJ Communities United.
At the heart of our organization lies the vital work of early childhood education, predominantly carried out by women. These dedicated individuals care for the most vulnerable among us—our children. They show up every single day, enabling families to participate in the workforce while often remaining unseen, underpaid, and undervalued. At NJ Communities United, we are committed to transforming the early childcare industry into one that embraces social, racial, economic, and gender justice.
NJCU organizers are in the field daily, working with our members to strategize direct action, improve working conditions in the early childhood sector, enhance services for families, and strengthen our communities. This work is neither easy nor comfortable; it takes personal risk and sacrifice. Yet, it is precisely through this struggle that the magic of social change unfolds.
I urge you to take a moment to support our fundraising efforts this year. Join us in rejecting the politics of racism, sexism, hate and violence. Together, let’s create a world where the most vulnerable thrive, and where the contributions of Black, Brown, Latina, Women of Color and immigrant women—often excluded from history, are celebrated and valued for the strength they bring to our economy and our society.
See you at the Solidarity Awards!
In Solidarity,
Trina Scordo, MSW
Executive Director
NJ Communities United