We are Indivisible: A Blueprint for Democracy After Trump is all politics. Authors Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin started a grassroots movement in the wake of the 2016 election results. In this book, they explain what led to those results, and what the potential repercussions are. More importantly, they lay out a six-point agenda to help restore democracy. As they say, “small d” democracy.
The book balances idealism and practical strategies, including examples of how Indivisible groups around the country started holding their elected officials accountable. Reading it, I felt inspired again to get involved. And that’s Greenberg and Levin’s point, I think. First they want to document what’s been successful in the past 3 ½ years, and historically before that. Second, they want people to reach out and do more as we approach the 2020 election and its results.
My conclusions
Their agenda is ambitious, and the authors know it. Indivisible can’t be accused of playing small. The items on their list start by eliminating the fillibuster. Then they move on to democratizing both House and Senate. And more. Not playing small, right? But understand, this agenda isn’t the book’s opener. Greenberg and Levin offer plenty of explanatory lead-in information.
And none of it will happen if the White House, Senate, or House remain controlled but the GOP. So, my main takeaway from this book is to get involved in every race that affects me. House, Senate, and Presidential.
One major additional topic is voter suppression, and Indivisible groups already fight hard against this. Greenberg and Levin offer plenty of reasons why making sure everyone votes is a positive thing.
My final comment is that these authors mention many political and history books. I can’t find a list in the ARC I have, nor on their web site. It’s so substantive that I’m considering developing my own bibliography, even if no on sees it but me. I love when a book sends me to 10 more good books!
I recommend this book if the political process this year or any other year interests you. It’s highly informational and inspiring.
Pair with Hiding in Plain Sight by Sarah Kendzior, for more politics with a grassroots bent.
Acknowledgements
Many thanks to NetGalley, Atria / One Signal Publishers, and the authors for the opportunity to read a digital ARC in exchange for this honest review.
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