As we commemorate the anniversary of January 6th, we are reminded of one of the most unsettling moments in modern American history—a day that tested the strength of our democracy and exposed deep fractures in our collective commitment to the principles of justice, equity, and civic responsibility.
The attack on the U.S. Capitol was more than an assault on a building; it was an assault on the foundational ideals that have guided our nation since its inception. It laid bare the consequences of misinformation, political polarization, and a widening gap in our ability to engage in meaningful, respectful discourse across differences.
Democracy is Not Self-Sustaining
Democracy requires active participation, informed citizens, and leaders committed to truth and transparency. As Horace Mann once said, "Education is the great equalizer of the conditions of men, the balance-wheel of the social machinery." Education—whether formal, experiential, or community-driven—remains one of the most powerful tools we have to protect our democratic institutions and foster a society rooted in empathy and understanding.
Thomas Jefferson also understood this, writing, "An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people." The health of our democracy depends on our ability to nurture informed, critical thinkers who can discern fact from fiction, engage thoughtfully in civic life, and advocate for justice without resorting to violence or hatred.
The Role of Higher Education and Community Leadership
Educational institutions have always played a crucial role in shaping the moral and intellectual fabric of society. Beyond imparting knowledge, they instill values—curiosity, humility, critical thinking, and civic responsibility. Similarly, community-based organizations like Pridelines serve as vital hubs for dialogue, education, and empowerment.
But education and dialogue alone are not enough—they must be paired with action. We must ask ourselves:
Are we creating spaces for meaningful conversations across ideological divides?
Are we empowering young people with the tools to critically engage with information?
Are we prioritizing empathy, emotional intelligence, and active listening in our leadership?
At Pridelines, we believe that these principles are not optional—they are essential. Our work with LGBTQIA+ youth and adults extends beyond offering resources and support; it’s about building a community grounded in respect, dialogue, and mutual understanding.
My Personal Commitment
As the Executive Director of Pridelines, I am deeply aware of the responsibility we carry—not just to serve our community but to help shape the future leaders of our democracy. Through Pridelines' programs, partnerships, and community initiatives, we are committed to:
Creating safe spaces for dialogue and learning.
Educating our community about their rights, civic responsibilities, and the importance of advocacy.
Encouraging active participation in local governance and decision-making processes.
Addressing misinformation with compassion, clarity, and facts.
Building bridges across divides—whether they are political, cultural, or generational.
A Collective Responsibility
The preservation of democracy is not the responsibility of politicians alone—it is a collective effort that requires every one of us to step up, speak out, and engage thoughtfully. Whether you're a teacher, a student, a community leader, or simply someone who cares about the future of this nation, you have a role to play.
We must all strive to be the kind of citizens that James Madison envisioned when he said, "Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives."
A Vision for the Future
At Pridelines, we see a future where every person, regardless of their identity or background, feels empowered to participate in our democracy. We envision a world where differences are celebrated, not feared; where difficult conversations are approached with humility and respect; and where civic responsibility is not seen as a burden but as a privilege.
Join Us in This Commitment
As we reflect on January 6th, let us not only remember the events of that day but also take action to ensure that such a breach of trust never happens again. Let us commit to building stronger, more resilient communities that stand as safeguards against division and extremism.
At Pridelines, we will continue to lead by example here in South Florida—through education, community building, and unwavering advocacy for equity and justice.
This is our pledge. This is our responsibility. And this is our hope for the future.
Dr. Edward Summers (he/him/his)
Executive Director
Pridelines
Comments