Over the past few weeks, I have been hearing from New Mexicans in truly unprecedented numbers. People from every corner of the state have been reaching out to me in letters, phone calls and emails to ask the same question: what can I do to make a difference?
I want to thank each and every one of you who has taken the time to contact me; I hear your voices, I am listening, and I am taking your opinions into account when I cast my votes.
There is a lot at stake today. Especially now, when our country seems so divided, it is easy to lose hope. But I am urging you not to lose sight of the incredible power our democracy gives to each and every one of us. Your voices matter now more than ever. I am telling you: Washington is listening. Keep speaking up.
But progress doesn’t just come from the halls of Congress or the White House. Change happens when people gather in living rooms, on campuses, and at matanzas across our state and decide to work together to make a difference. Here are some of the many ways you can effect positive change in New Mexico and across our nation:
- Contact your U.S. representative and both your senators via mail, telephone or email.
- Start a letter writing campaign with your friends or family.
- Organize or join a community group focused on an issue that you care about.
- Schedule meetings with your local, state and federal representatives to advocate for your cause.
- Attend local city council meetings, business meetings, town halls, and forums--and speak up!
- Organize a demonstration or a rally to make your voice heard.
- Register to vote and help get out the vote on local, state, and general election days.
I’ll keep fighting in the Senate for opportunity and progress for every New Mexican. I hope you’ll keep fighting with me. As Margaret Mead, the accomplished American anthropologist, once said:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
