Every time you did something brave—showed up to a protest, put up that yard sign, made music, created art, shared that sermon, said the hard thing, did the hard thing, refused despair, kept yourself in the light, lifted others into the light—it mattered.
– Valerie Kaur

This ExchangeEveryDay is taken from a recent bulletin prepared by Nicky Byres, on behalf of Margie Carter and Ann Pelo, entitled “Call to Action: Sustaining Early Childhood Education as a Foundation for Democracy.”

“We write this Third Call to Action Bulletin in this fresh new year. A year ACTION matters and YOU matter.

“Our colleague Rukia Rogers in recent conversation with Margie offered not just her wisdom but an example of a clear Call to Action. We humbly add our call to hers with gratitude for her leadership as we launch 2026.

“Rukia offers this background: The Weelaunee Coalition of Atlanta is a multi- racial, intergenerational group of educators, students, families and neighbors calling for a Week of Action beginning January 18 and ending January 25, 2026…. As educators and organizers working toward the reimagined world our young people deserve, we call upon all our relatives across the country and around the world to bring this generation’s Movement of anti-war and peace into their classrooms, schools, and communities.

“The Weelaunee Coalition calls all educators, students, parents and caregivers to a WEEK OF ACTION, January 18-25, 2026.” See details in the complete Call to Action bulletin.

The Exchange Reflections, “Creating a Beloved Community in Your Organization,” offers insight into how Rukia Monique Rogers, inspired by the legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and bell hooks, built a school community rooted in relationships, empathy, and social justice.

This Reflections offers ideas for discussion on ways to build strong connections with children, families, and the wider community, that will empower everyone to contribute to a more just and compassionate society.

P.S. Did you receive the second issue of Exchange Community Voices in your inbox today? If not, become an Exchange member to start receiving it.