When resisting a fascist movement, it is easy to forget our own humanity. It is easy to look at people like MLK, Gilbert Baker, Susan B Anthony, Fredrick Douglas, Marsha P Johnson, and Malcolm X and think only about their work in movements, and wonder why we can’t devote ourselves like these heroes. But to deny the moments between their work is to deny their humanity.

All these people needed rest. All these people faced doubt. They felt fear. They were not weak for it. And neither are you.

We just had a major win after what I can only describe for myself as loss after loss after loss. Do not fault yourself for taking a moment to breathe. Take as many moments as you need. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and resistance takes a lot. Recognize your humanity, accept you have limitations, and realize that there is always more work to be done.

When you can fight, fight. When you need healing, heal. When you need to mourn, mourn. And when you need to celebrate, celebrate. At the end of the day, we are fighting for people. We do that best when we recognize we are people, too.

MJ Mac (22, he/him)