Some of you may know that one of my interests is post-apocalyptic science fiction. A reporter recently asked me: “Is that because you think we’re not going to make it?” As I explained to the reporter, it’s the exact opposite. I am attracted to those books and movies because I believe that hardship brings out the best in people. When we are confronted by adversity, we come together and pool our resources for the greater good.

I think this vision of the world aligns well with our mission at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Economic Justice. Founded at the height of the civil rights movement, we marshal the resources of the legal community to advance racial justice. In partnership with pro bono lawyers, we move the civil rights struggle from the street to the courtroom.

When I became Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee, some people said to me: “the civil rights movement is over.” They intimated that we are no longer relevant. I am proud that over the past year, we have repeatedly proved them wrong. We have demonstrated that we can make a difference in the world.

We’ve fought for students who experience bullying based on their identity.

We’ve fought for small business owners with big dreams and limited resources.

We took on giants like Amazon and Airbnb.

We launched the biggest non-partisan election protection campaign in Massachusetts history to ensure that everyone has equal access to the ballot.

None of this would have happened without support from people like you.

Today, our work is far from over and we stand ready to push for an aggressive civil rights agenda. Now more than ever, I challenge you to see our mission as your personal and moral obligation.

With your support, we can expand local and state protections and solutions. As a city – and as a state – we are poised to play an important role in the years to come.

Let’s remember that Boston gave birth to Abolitionists and Freedom Riders. We are the city where Martin Luther King became Dr. King.

While other states are busy becoming laboratories of bigotry, we are going to be a laboratory for justice. We are going to export models of freedom and equality. But we can’t do this without your support.

Giving can be a political act. I am making a personal contribution to the Lawyers’ Committee because I know that we are a good investment.

You’ve seen us in action – and you’ve seen us win! You know that we have the capacity and strength to champion civil rights. Now, show us some love! Give generously and invite others to support our work.

Together, we’ve got this!

Click here for our 2016 Year-in-Review.