When Protest Isn’t Enough
This week on A Couple Thinks, we’re revisiting a topic from one of our earliest episodes: the relationship between protest, resistance, and disruption—and how that dynamic is shifting in this very urgent moment.
It started with a conversation between us about whether calling our elected officials is still effective. The recent passage of the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” (or, as we’ve taken to calling it, the large lousy legislation) raised doubts. Many of us called, emailed, protested, pleaded—and still watched it get signed into law.
So what now?
We reflect on how, in moments like this, protest often morphs into resistance. Inspired by a video from historian Tad Stoermer and a recent Indivisible email calling for “1 Million Rising,” we dig into what it means to stand in the way, not just ask for change.
We talk about historical examples—from Thoreau to Mario Savio—and modern ones, like blocking ICE vehicles. We also share our own anxieties and hopes as we sign up for resistance training, explore local opportunities for solidarity, and remind ourselves that even small acts—like calling a rep, sending a postcard, or showing up for a neighbor—can matter.
As always, we round things out with our joyful moments. This time: a trip to the Temescal Street Fair and a deep appreciation for community creativity (and a hot tub soak).
Links we mentioned:
* Tad Stormer video on protest vs. resistance
* Indivisible's 1 Million Rising training from Indivisible Project
Here’s the promised picture of Aaron and the Box of Unknown Power Cords! at the East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse.
Call to Action:Join a protest on Good Trouble Day, July 17. And if you can’t be in the streets, consider resistance in other forms: taking a training, making a call, offering support to immigrant families in your community. Let’s each do something. And together, that can become everything.
