Message From the Chair - May 17, 2025
In considering my message this month, I’m struck by how quickly change is taking place across the country, in our state, and in our community. It’s everywhere, and we’re just beginning to feel the disturbing effects. We are all running in different directions, relying on existing skills and experiences to counter these changes. Some efforts help, while others make things harder. This is just the beginning of what will likely be a tumultuous few years.
If the last election taught us anything, it’s that we must be resilient, inclusive, and organized to overcome a common threat. Using these strengths, we’re seeing progress in LD17 through community engagement, protesting, and speaking out for human and civil rights. We’re standing strong in the face of adversity, and I thank our wonderful volunteers for their bold actions.
In the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, we’ve seen threats to immigrants, minorities, women, and the poor—along with attacks on education, science, health care, public lands, and social services. These threats are unfolding in real time, and their impacts will linger.
It’s hard to witness such disregard for democracy and humanity. I’m now concerned these actions have spurred a new threat—an attack on the diversity and individual perspectives that form the foundation of the Democratic Party.
We must reject Trump-style chaos and self-interest, and instead work together to defend civil rights, protect safety nets, fight environmental degradation, defend public schools and demand lawful immigration actions. Our party has a rich history of success, built through the hard work of a diverse and committed group united by common goals.
I’m reminded of the words of Rosa Parks: As long as people use tactics to oppress or restrict other people from being free, there is work to be done.
We still have far to go. Now is the time to solidify our foundation, embrace different perspectives, and stay unified. If we follow Ms. Parks’ advice and stand up to those who threaten freedom, we will bring about the change Arizonans truly need.
Nancy Burton