“Good Trouble Lives On”: A Bipartisan Call to Conscience

Summary
On July 17, 2025, more than 1,600 rallies nationwide will mark the fifth anniversary of Congressman John Lewis’s passing under the banner “Good Trouble Lives On,” uniting communities against threats to civil and human rights. To ensure this movement transcends party lines, legislators must root their messaging in shared democratic values, spotlight cross‑aisle champions, and issue neutral calls to civic duty. Below we unpack the origins of “good trouble,” examine bipartisan examples, and offer a four‑point framework for inclusive, impact‑driven advocacy.

1. Honoring Non‑Partisan Roots

John Lewis coined “good trouble” to describe principled, peaceful dissent that cuts across party allegiances in service of justice. In his 2010 DNC address, Lewis praised legislators of both parties, such as the Republican governor who partnered with him on prison reform, underscoring that moral courage isn’t owned by one side. By anchoring every “Good Trouble” event in Lewis’s universal appeal, organizers can invite all elected officials to participate.

2. Framing Around Shared Civic Values

Voting Rights as a Collective Responsibility
“Good Trouble” actions—marches, vigils, voter‑registration drives—should be cast as defending every citizen’s franchise, an oath each legislator swore at inauguration.

Equity in Service Delivery
Highlight bipartisan gains like expanding telehealth in rural areas, where both parties overwhelmingly agree on closing digital divides.

Public Safety Through Dialogue
Promote nonviolent teach‑ins on criminal‑justice reform, partnering with law‑enforcement and advocacy groups to emphasize community‑centered solutions.

3. Showcasing Cross‑Aisle Champions

Federal Co‑Sponsors
The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (H.R. 14) boasts Republican co‑sponsors, illustrating unity on enfranchisement.

State Leaders
In Georgia, leaders from both parties joined in the “Hands Off Our Votes” coalition—profiling both demonstrates state‑level solidarity.

Local Voices
Invite city council members of any party to co‑host neighborhood voter‑registration drives under the “Good Trouble” umbrella.

4. Issuing Inclusive, Neutral Calls to Action

Engage, Empower, Elevate
Encourage constituents to attend a rally, register to vote, or submit public comment on pending redistricting, without mentioning candidates or party platforms.

#DutyToDemocracy
Use hashtags that speak to shared democratic responsibilities rather than ideological slogans.

Toolkit Language
Provide graphics stating, “Join us in making ‘Good Trouble’ for fair maps, full participation, and equal opportunity,” focusing on outcomes rather than politics.

5. Building Broad Coalitions

Partner with non‑partisan entities such as senior advocacy groups on access, chambers of commerce on economic equity, and faith networks on community dialogue to convene multi‑stakeholder forums. Issue a joint statement signed by Democrats, Republicans, and civic leaders affirming that “Good Trouble” honors Lewis’s call to collective action.

Conclusion & Next Steps

“Good Trouble Lives On” offers a powerful rallying cry when framed as a bipartisan civic mission. By honoring John Lewis’s non‑partisan legacy, centering inclusive values, amplifying cross‑aisle champions, and issuing neutral calls to action, NOBEL Women can lead a united front for justice. Let every member wear their party affiliation lightly in service of a higher commitment: preserving and expanding democratic rights for all.

::contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}