During an insightful discussion, Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, emphasized the ongoing threats posed to democracy by the Trump administration. As the nation observes Black History Month, Johnson reflected on the current sociopolitical climate, describing it as a time of mourning and concern for the legacy achieved through the Civil Rights Movement. He argued that efforts to undermine this legacy seem aimed at restoring a historical status quo reminiscent of the Gilded Age and the Jim Crow era.
Johnson noted that the phrase “Make America Great Again” is often interpreted as a call to “Make America White Again.” He highlighted this as part of a larger strategy to erase the accomplishments of marginalized communities. Yet, he remains hopeful, asserting that the historical successes of the Civil Rights Movement provide a blueprint for resisting and ultimately overcoming Trump’s influence.
Understanding the Current Political Landscape
In discussing the disorienting effects of the Trump presidency, Johnson stated, “It is 2026 on the calendar, but it feels like we are in some alternate universe.” He pointed out that despite advancements in technology, these same tools are being misused to limit freedoms and suppress democratic principles.
To navigate this landscape, Johnson emphasized the need to clarify the intersection of race and class in America. He explained that race is often weaponized to maintain control, creating a false narrative that blames economic struggles on minority groups. “If you can sell a narrative to white Americans that the reason why they’re struggling is because of Black and brown people, you are moving them to make decisions that will actually harm them too,” he stated.
Mobilizing for Change and Protecting Democracy
The NAACP’s role in this charged environment is critical. Johnson pointed out that the current political situation is rooted in a long-standing movement aiming to dismantle social safety nets and progressive taxation. With the right-wing now controlling all branches of government, the NAACP is focusing on mobilizing voters ahead of the upcoming elections.
In the 2024 elections, African Americans accounted for only 11% of total ballots cast, despite representing 13% of the population. Johnson called for increased voter turnout to ensure that African American voices are heard in shaping the nation’s future.
The NAACP is also actively engaging in legal battles to defend voting rights and protect the constitutional rights of all citizens, particularly in areas like Minneapolis, where federal enforcement actions have escalated.
Johnson expressed concern over recent actions taken by the Trump administration, including directives that appear aimed at undermining the integrity of electoral processes. “We live in a democracy. We don’t have kings. Our vote is our currency, and the Trump administration is trying to figure out how to undercut the currency of the American people,” he remarked.
He condemned the reallocation of the civil rights division of the Department of Justice, which he believes has shifted from protecting vulnerable Americans to serving the interests of specific demographics. “This is a cruel joke on the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement,” he stated, highlighting the surreal nature of contemporary politics.
As federal agencies like ICE and the Border Patrol intensify their operations, particularly in areas with significant immigrant populations, Johnson noted a growing awareness among white Americans regarding the systemic injustices faced by Black communities. He described Minneapolis as “Ground Zero,” where the killing of George Floyd galvanized global protests and increased solidarity across racial lines.
In closing, Johnson urged those participating in protests to remain committed to their cause. He reminded them that today’s struggles, while painful, are part of a longer journey toward justice and equity. “It is their community today, and it could be your community tomorrow,” he warned, stressing that the forces of oppression do not discriminate.
As Black History Month unfolds, Johnson believes it serves as a reminder of the resilience of Black America. He encourages leveraging historical successes to inspire hope and action in the current struggle for democracy. “We can’t go into a fight preparing to lose,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of agency in shaping the future.
With the stakes higher than ever, Johnson’s call for unity and mobilization resonates as America continues to navigate a fraught political landscape.
