Task Force takes part in the American Dream Movement

The Take Back the American Dream conference took place in Washington this week, giving a platform for progressive organizers to share innovative movement-building strategies. Task Force Deputy Executive Director Darlene Nipper spoke on a panel about turning wedge issues into winning issues. The panelists explained how they took on attempts by conservatives to use issues such as reproductive rights, LGBT equality, immigration reform and civil rights as a wedge between our communities, and fought back in a united way. One of the ways we can fight back is through telling our stories to supporters, legislators and the opposition. There was a lengthy discussion about the DREAM Act and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” While both pieces of legislation were moving in Congress last fall, many tried to divide our communities so that we would fight against each other instead of together. Yet, we refused to let that happen, and working together we were only able to secure one victory, but if they had successfully divided us we would have been much more likely to fail.

One theme that arose from the panel was that our issues only become wedges when we allow them to be. If we stand united as the American Dream Movement is choosing to do, then we have the strength to work together to create change. That’s why the Task Force has partnered with over 70 organizations to rebuild the American Dream so that we can achieve equality for all.