I can’t believe we’ve finally made it to the best season ever - AUTUMN!!! And I sincerely hope all of you are surviving these…interesting times.

But as time flies by, that also means it’s time to begin planning the next RootsCamp!

I know we sent a survey after the event earlier this year — and I’m eternally thankful for all the responses. We love data a GAIN Power.

But I also don’t want to get too far into planning without checking in again with YOU, aka the people who make the magic at RootsCamp.

So, if you have thoughts or ideas about what the next convening should look like (dates, location, programming, etc), I’m begging you to let us know in the GAIN Power RootsCamp Slack Channel by the end of the month so we can keep the planning train going.

Talk soon!

Natasha

Saturday I attended the joint #NoKings/Pride parade in my hometown and it was the experience I needed.

Transparently, I’ve avoided mass protests to protect my safety. With everything going on in LA and Minnesota, I was honestly scared of how the day would end.

Well Winston-Salem showed up, and showed out with love, acceptance, and inclusion.

But what really moved me was the energy within the #NoKings walking groups.

Some groups went with the classic “this is what democracy looks like” chant.

Others chose to hype the crowd in other ways - with music or costumes.

And as someone who has been organizing for years, these images warmed my heart and make me hopeful for our collective future.

I’ve seen quite a bit of chatter about what happens next. Was this a demonstration without a strategy? Where do we go from here?

I’m thrilled to say we at GAIN Power have a plan for that. Or at least we have a plan for that particular conversation.

Next week, at the Democracy Expo, we have several panels that will be spaces for these questions and discussions.

Note: we’re still adding speakers to some of these panels, so make sure you read emails from us over the next week!

If you’d like to join us, grab your FREE ticket today!

I know many things, and one thing I’m certain of is this: we will not “win” if we don’t work together. For me that means hearing from everyone and creating solutions that are based in reality. We need your voices in the room.

And then make sure you come back on Wednesday for the awards ceremony as we celebrate these icons in the work:

Awards tickets

As always, yours in solidarity,

Natasha

That’s right, our Co-Chair will be moderating this panel with Representatives , , , and @Delia Ramirez.

We have other exciting programming that we’ll announce in the coming days as well so make sure you read your emails.

I am so excited by this announcement I can’t sit still.

This year, at the Powerful IDEA Awards we will be presenting Marquee Awards to nine extraordinary leaders with in the movement.

Join Us and Celebrate These Leaders

Side note: who is going to be beside me to prevent me from being the biggest fangirl ever and embarrassing myself during the Awards?

Lifetime Achievement Award

Congressman Steny Hoyer
Former House Majority Leader, Maryland's 5th Congressional District
Recognizing a career devoted to lifting others and building the next generation of progressive leaders.

Living Legend Award

Will Robinson
Founding Partner, The New Media Firm
Celebrating a lifelong trailblazer whose transformative impact has reshaped progressive campaign infrastructure across generations.

Lee Saunders Labor Leader Award

AFT President Randi Weingarten
President, American Federation of Teachers
Saluting the backbone of progressive power and unwavering advocacy for educators and working families.

Truth to Power Award

Maurice Mitchell
National Director, Working Families Party
Honoring courage that transforms systems and fearlessly confronts institutional barriers to advance equity and justice.

Next Up Award

Santiago Mayer
Founder/Executive Director, Voters of Tomorrow
Spotlighting tomorrow's changemakers who refuse to wait for permission to lead and forge new paths for the future.

Hidden Figure Award

Emmy Ruiz
Former Political Director, The White House
Recognizing the essential architects of progress whose strategic work forms the backbone of our most important victories.

Transforming Party Award

Ben Wikler
Chair, Wisconsin Democratic Party
Empowering Democratic evolution and making the party more inclusive, effective, and responsive to communities.

Transforming Democracy Award

Jotaka Eaddy
Co-Founder, Black Women For
Honoring visionaries who expand democratic power and build pathways connecting Americans to the levers of change.

Transforming Community Award

Anathea Chino
Co-Founder & Executive Director, Advance Native Political Leadership
Building the movement's foundation through deep community organizing and authentic relationship-building.

Learn More About Our Awardees

These nine leaders represent the North Star of progressive politics—from those who built the foundations we stand on today to those who are forging the paths we'll walk tomorrow.

Join us in celebrating their extraordinary contributions to our democracy.

Natasha & the GAIN Power Team

I have a hard time believing it’s been 3 months since we were together in Baltimore, but sadly the calendar doesn’t lie.

Over here at GAIN Power, we’ve been focusing on our next big thing: the Powerful IDEA Awards.

On June 24th and 25th, we’ll be gathering at the Capital Turnaround in DC for the 4th Annual Powerful IDEA Awards & Democracy Expo!

We are overjoyed to have two amazing co-chairs: Reyna Walters-Morgan, DNC Vice Chair for Civic Engagement and Voter Participation, and Chuck Rocha, President & Founder of Solidarity Strategies.

We're also excited to honor Congressman Steny Hoyer at the Awards Ceremony on June 25th for his decades of service and leadership in protecting our democracy. Please watch this space, as well as your inbox, as we announce additional speakers and other surprises.

So why this post today (other than making sure you’re in the know)?

We need you to VOTE! The voting period for the awards closes on May 31, and we need your input.

VOTE for your favorite nominee!

After you vote, make sure you buy your ticket (or sponsorship). We’d love for you to help us celebrate the people and organizations driving change!

From the moment Virtual RootsCamp began, you were there. The steady hands, the problem solvers, the community builders. Whether you were helping someone navigate the platform, ensuring a session ran smoothly, or simply offering a word of encouragement to a fellow organizer—you were the quiet force that made this space possible.

🌟 You weren’t just volunteers. You were architects.
You built the structure that held this gathering together. Every session you supported, every tech issue you troubleshot, every moment you spent making sure someone else felt seen and heard—those were bricks laid in the foundation of something lasting.

🌱 You weren’t just helping. You were planting seeds.
Every introduction you facilitated, every question you answered, every person you welcomed—you were creating connections that will grow beyond this week, beyond this space, into the movements and campaigns that will shape our future.

📣 You weren’t just behind the scenes. You were at the heart of it all.
The work you did may not always be the loudest, but it was essential. And in this work—where so much is urgent and the path forward can be uncertain—you proved that the most powerful movements are held up by those willing to serve, to support, to show up not for recognition, but for impact.

💚 This wouldn’t have happened without you.
💡 Your work made a difference.
🌍 And the impact you’ve made will last far beyond this week.

We could say thank you a hundred times and it still wouldn’t be enough. But know this: You are valued. You are appreciated. And you are part of a legacy of changemakers who make the impossible possible.

Now, we want to hear from you. Drop your favorite memory, moment, or takeaway in the comments below.

What will you carry forward from this experience? What inspired you? What made you laugh, cry, or reflect? ⬇️✨

Leave a comment

At RootsCamp 2025, we are all about collaboration, innovation, and powering progress. That’s why we’re thrilled to have Quiller hosting special office hours in the RootsCamp Expo on Wednesday and Thursday from Noon–1 PM and 3–4 PM ET.

If you have questions, curiosities, or even quandaries about artificial intelligence and how to deploy it effectively and responsibly in our space—this is the place to be!

Why AI Matters in the Progressive Movement

AI is transforming the way mission-driven organizations operate. Quiller, an AI copilot designed for progressive campaigns, advocacy organizations, and movements, helps teams streamline content creation—from fundraising emails to direct mail—instantly moving from concept to final draft.

But responsible AI adoption is just as important as efficiency. During these office hours, Quiller’s expert team will help you:
✅ Evaluate AI tools to align with your mission
✅ Explore practical applications in campaigns and advocacy
✅ Understand the role of AI in movement-building
✅ Develop responsible adoption guidelines that match your values
✅ Talk through big-picture AI strategies

This is not just a product demo—these office hours are meant to be a sounding board for all things AI in progressive organizing. Whether you’re curious about AI-driven campaign strategy, digital organizing, or ethical concerns, Quiller is here to share insights and best practices from across the movement.

Find Quiller in the Expo!

If you're already registered for RootsCamp 2025, you can find Quiller by going to the Expo and popping into their booth during their office hours.

🚀 Not registered yet? Secure your spot now and join Quiller’s office hours by registering here: rootscamp.link/apvirtual25

💡 Want to learn more about Quiller? Visit quiller.ai to explore how their AI copilot can help your mission-driven organization create high-impact content.

Let’s navigate AI responsibly and effectively—together! See you at RootsCamp.

It's not too late to Register!

🚨 Missed Yesterday at RootsCamp? Here’s What Went Down! 🚨

If you weren’t in the mix yesterday, you missed out—but don’t worry, most recordings are available! We spilled the tea, strategized for the future, and even got a little messy in the best way possible. Here’s a taste of what went down:

If you weren’t in the mix yesterday, you missed out—but don’t worry, most recordings are available! We spilled the tea, strategized for the future, and even got a little messy in the best way possible. And a special shoutout to whose session “All Tea, All Shade” was the most popular of the day! 🎉👏. That’s me with Channel at our in-person RootsCamp last month above :-).

🔙 Yesterday’s Highlights & Speakers

🫖 All Tea, All Shade: Untold Stories from the Field – Channel Powe
💥 What do you wish people knew about what happened on the ground? This was a space to share real experiences that can ignite bold change!

🇺🇦 How Ukraine Advocates Engage to Build Broad Coalitions – @Jim McBride
💬 Despite setbacks, Ukrainian-Americans and allies have built powerful coalitions in Washington. Learn lessons from one of the movement’s most experienced activists!

💰 Making the Economic Case (Without Sounding Like an Elitist Jerk) – John Neffinger, Sarah Flowers
🧐 Progressives support workers, but sometimes we sound out of touch. This session shared research on how to connect with people in meaningful ways!

🔥 Memes, Hashtags & Pixels: Charting a Career Path in Digital Strategy – Shelby Cole, Han Nguyen, Caleb Cavarretta, Paulina Mangubat, Tessa Simonds
📱 How do you turn digital strategy into a career? Digital veterans shared unconventional paths, insider tips, and lessons they wish they had known earlier.

🤖 Disrupting Disinfo in 2025: Search, AI & the Battle for Truth – Meg Simons, Britt Bischoff
🚨 As extremists weaponize AI and search, progressives need strategic defenses. This session shared real-world tactics to fight digital manipulation.

🎤 Branding Your Career: From Resume to Interview Success – Sarah Hummell, Kimberly Naff
💼 Your resume and interview are more than a checklist—this session taught how to turn them into a compelling personal brand!

📣 Beyond Boom & Bust Organizing: Building & Sustaining Grassroots Teams Year-Round – Thaddeus Walls, Matt Caffrey, Janna Kaplan
💪 Campaigns end, but movements shouldn’t. This session tackled strategies for keeping volunteers and teams engaged between election cycles.

🔧 Oops! I Did It Again: Fixing Common Digital Mistakes to Help You Win – Tessa Sainz, Matt Denner
❌ Running a digital program is hard—this session covered common mistakes and how checklists and audits can prevent them!

📝 Audience, Brevity, Clarity: Understanding the ABC’s of Messaging – Vicki Roush, Sanha Tahir, Arshad Hasan
📢 Want your message to land? This session broke down the essentials of effective, audience-driven communication.

🎟️ Missed these? No worries—check out the recordings!

👀 What’s On Deck TODAY?

🔥 First Block (12pm - 1:15pm ET)
⚖️ Holding Election Officials Accountable – Nick Pressley, Scott Seeborg
🗳️ Election deniers are still in power—so how do we hold them accountable? Learn real-world strategies for defending democracy.

🐕 Concrete Ways to Stop DOGE in Its Tracks! – Beverly Schreiber, Heather Cronk
💻 Federal workers hold the key to stopping dangerous government takeovers. This session explored how to inspire resistance from inside the system.

💼 More Than a Hard Ask: Organizing Skills for Job Negotiation – Chelsie Ouelette
💰 Advocating for yourself is just as important as advocating for your cause. This session introduced a Harvard-taught framework for salary negotiations.

🚀 What’s Next? Career Planning Between Administrations – Kristin Avery, Gautam Raghavan, Marcus Coleman, Vanessa Millones, Brooks Mears
🔄 Public service careers don’t stop between elections—this panel helped folks navigate transitions and plan their next steps.

🎯 Second Block (1:30pm - 2:45pm ET)
🎬 Creators: How Do We Make a Living? – Annie Wu, Laura Packard, Lucy Ritzmann, Emma Mont
📹 For digital creators, financial stability can be tough. This session explored strategies to monetize content and sustain creative activism.

🏆 Grassroots Power: Organizing to Win Without the Help of the DNC – D’Angelo Virgo
✊ Winning local elections and driving change without the establishment—this session was all about people-powered movements.

📖 Science-Based Storytelling to Persuade & Motivate – Frank A. Spring
🧠 Messaging isn’t just an art—it’s a science. Attendees learned how to use storytelling frameworks to inspire action.

⚡ Third Block (3:00pm - 4:15pm ET)
🌱 Path to an Equitable Clean Energy Economy: A Community Discussion on Just Transition – Kieran Elia
🌍 Labor, climate, and community leaders explored organizing for a fair and sustainable clean energy future.

🎨 Lessons from 2024: How We Activated Creators – Ashwath Narayanan, Sabrina Collins-Childers, Maria Hurtado, Ellie Artone
📢 What worked (and what didn’t) in 2024? This session broke down key learnings from creator-led voter engagement campaigns.

☕ The Art of Having Coffee: Building Meaningful Connections – Sarah Hummell
🤝 Networking isn’t just about coffee—it’s about real relationships. This session provided tools for authentic, strategic connections.

📊 The Consultant’s Survival Guide: Hustle, Chaos & Winning Strategies – Scott Simpson, Atima Omara, Dan Black, Alicia Sisneros
💼 Thinking about consulting? This panel of seasoned pros shared real talk on surviving and thriving in the industry.

💡 Over 500 people are registered, and we’re just getting started! Be sure to check out the expo, meet amazing organizers, and take full advantage of our space for learning, sharing, collaborating, and networking.

🌍 RootsCamp is by and for the people fighting to protect our democracy. While GAIN Power is the host, the sessions are 100% user-driven, focusing on:
✅ Professional development & career opportunities
✅ Organizing & mobilizing
✅ Messaging & communication

It might seem scattered, but that’s because there’s something for everyone who wants to make a difference!

💻 It’s not too late to register! Whether you’re coming for the sessions, the connections, the expo, or just to see what it’s all about—you can still be part of it! Registration closes when we end on Friday, but the sessions and connections will live on long after.

👉 Join us now: https://rootscamp.link/apvirtual25

💬 Who are you most excited to hear from today? Drop your thoughts below! ⬇️

#RootsCamp #PoweringProgress #GrassrootsMovements 🚀

Register Now

“History has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own." — Michelle Obama

The time for waiting is over. Virtual RootsCamp begins NOW. The rooms are open, the conversations are starting, and the movement is in motion. Over 500 organizers, strategists, and advocates have registered—will you be one of them?

This isn’t a conference. This is a call to action. A space to share, strategize, and build power together. The doors are open, but the moment won’t wait.

📅 Starting TODAY—March 17-21
💻 Online. On-demand. On your terms.
🔥 A space to strategize, build, and win.

Power Belongs to Those Who Show Up

Right now, across the country, organizers and advocates are preparing to step into a space that doesn’t just talk about change—but builds it.

🔹 No barriers, just access. Whether you're employed, underemployed, or in transition, there’s a way in.
🔹 No fear of missing out. Sessions are recorded, so you can engage on your time.
🔹 Not an all-day event. We meet from 12-4 PM ET, so you leave energized, not drained.
🔹 A community that doesn’t end when the sessions do. Once you’re here, you’re part of something bigger.

Movements Run on People Power—Will You Step Up?

Organizing doesn’t happen alone. It happens when we come together, uplift one another, and do the work—side by side.

🌟 Virtual RootsCamp needs YOU.

Every great movement relies on volunteers—people willing to take action, create space, and keep things moving behind the scenes. Volunteering at Virtual RootsCamp isn’t just about helping—it’s about shaping the experience, strengthening our shared work, and building the relationships that will carry us forward.

💻 Tech-savvy? Help ensure smooth sessions and troubleshoot where needed.
👥 Love community-building? Welcome attendees, guide conversations, and create an inclusive space.
🔊 Want to amplify voices? Help share important takeaways and spread the word.

This is a movement powered by us all. Will you step up?

The Future of Organizing Is Being Written—Be One of the Authors

This is your invitation.
To learn.
To teach.
To build.
To organize.

⏳ Time is moving, and so is the movement. Will you step in?

🪑 Register for Virtual RootsCamp NOW
🏆 Sponsor Virtual RootsCamp
💙 Volunteer and be part of the team

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“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” — Shirley Chisholm 🪑

Virtual RootsCamp isn’t just about finding a seat—it’s about building the whole damn table. It’s about removing barriers, opening doors, and ensuring every organizer, activist, and changemaker has a space to strategize, collaborate, and grow.

On Monday, March 17, Virtual RootsCamp begins.

That means there are only three days between you and an incredible week of connection, strategy, and movement-building. Three days until changemakers from across the country gather—not in one city, but everywhere.

If you’ve been to a RootsCamp before, you already know—it’s not a traditional event. It’s not a conference. It’s an open space. A space where we don’t just talk about change—we build the blueprint for it.

And if you haven’t been before? Now is the time because this space is for you.

Subscribe now

1️⃣ No Barriers, Just Access

Everyone should be able to learn, connect, and build power—no matter their situation. That’s why Virtual RootsCamp is open to all.

🌍 Join from anywhere—no travel expenses, no stress.
🤝 No barriers—show up and be part of the movement.
🚀 All you need is your passion and a Wi-Fi connection.

Change happens when we come together.

2️⃣ No Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

Worried about missing sessions? Don’t be. Virtual RootsCamp is designed so you can stay engaged—on your time, your way.

📺 Sessions Are Recorded – Unless there's a privacy concern, every session is recorded and available for playback. If you miss one, you can always catch up later.
⏳ Watch When It Works for You – Life is unpredictable. Whether you’re in back-to-back meetings, picking up the kids, or juggling priorities, you won’t have to choose between showing up and missing out.
🎯 Engage at Your Own Pace – If multiple sessions happen at once that you want to attend—no stress. Join the one that calls to you in the moment, then revisit the others later.

Virtual RootsCamp isn’t about being everywhere at once. It’s about making sure you get exactly what you need—when you need it.

3️⃣ A Space That Fits Into Your Life

This isn’t an all-day event that demands your full schedule.

🕛 Sessions run from 12 PM - 4 PM ET.
⚡ Focused, high-energy, action-driven conversations that leave you with real takeaways.
🔄 And again, if two incredible sessions happen at the same time? Catch the playback!

We’re here to energize you, not exhaust you.

4️⃣ The Conversations You NEED to Be Part Of

We’re diving into the most pressing issues in organizing today.

🔥 Concerned about Musk, DOGE, and the ever-changing digital landscape? We’ve got a session for that.
💡 Want to level up your campaign strategies and voter engagement tactics? We’ve got you covered.
🌍 Looking for fresh perspectives on grassroots power and movement tech? Learn from the best.

This is your space not just to listen—but to ask, share, and shape the conversations that will drive progressive movements forward.

5️⃣ A Community That Doesn’t End When the Sessions Do

RootsCamp isn’t just an event—it’s a network, a support system, a movement.

🌱 Once you’re in, you’re in. Your registration means staying connected to the people, ideas, and resources that fuel change.
💬 Join discussions, build collaborations, and keep the momentum going long after March 21.
🤝 Because we’re not just here to talk. We’re here to win.

6️⃣ It’s More Than an Event—It’s a Legacy

RootsCamp has always been a space for organizers, by organizers. A place where strategies are exchanged freely, and lessons from the field become blueprints for success.

This year, we’re not just keeping that tradition alive—we’re making it more accessible, more flexible, and more powerful than ever before.

7️⃣ Because Your Voice Matters

Movements are built by people who show up.

💡 Your ideas, your experience, your voice—it all matters.
🔥 Whether you’re a seasoned organizer or just getting started, something is here for you.
⚡ The work ahead is big, but we are stronger together.

So, are you ready? Are you in?

Let’s Make This Space Accessible for All

We offer flexible pricing—if you’re under- or unemployed, you can attend for free.

If you can support this work, we encourage you to buy a ticket or sponsor to help keep this space accessible for all. Movements are fueled by collective investment, and every contribution strengthens our shared work.

👇 Take action now:

📆 Register for Virtual RootsCamp
🏆 Sponsor Virtual RootsCamp
💙 Volunteer and be part of the team

📆 March 17-21 | 📍 Wherever you are | 🎟️ Your access, your way

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🌟 Virtual RootsCamp Lobby Now Open: Your Guide to Effective Networking 🌟

Great news, organizers! The lobby for Virtual RootsCamp is now open. While we're still updating some sessions and adding speakers, exhibitors, and expo booths, now is the perfect time to register, log in, and familiarize yourself with the platform before we officially kick off on Monday, March 17th.

Register Now If You Haven't Already

🚪 Lobby Access & Platform Navigation

The virtual platform is your home base for the event (March 17-22). If you log in now, you'll see the full schedule of sessions so you can start planning which ones you want to attend next week when we're live! Take some time to explore:

• Check out the evolving schedule

• Review speaker profiles

• Locate and explore the virtual expo booths

• Connect with our amazing sponsors

• Test your audio/video settings

• Customize your attendee profile

Pro tip: Set up your profile completely with your photo, bio, and areas of interest to make meaningful connections faster!

🤝 Maximizing Virtual Networking: Your RootsCamp Strategy Guide

Let's be honest—networking in virtual spaces presents unique challenges, but it's absolutely crucial for building the movement connections we need right now. Here's how to make the most of Virtual RootsCamp:

Before Sessions Begin:

1. Update Your LinkedIn/Twitter/Socials: Include that you're attending RootsCamp and what topics you're most interested in discussing.

2. Create Your Introduction: Craft a concise, compelling 30-second introduction about who you are, what you do, and what you hope to learn/share at RootsCamp.

3. Research Speakers & Attendees: Review the participant list (if available) and identify 5-10 people you want to connect with during the event.

4. Prepare Your Space: Set up a professional background, ensure good lighting, and test your audio/video. First impressions still matter, even in virtual settings!

During Virtual Sessions:

1. Use the Chat Strategically: Don't just lurk! When you have a relevant thought or question, share it in the chat with your name and organization.

2. Active Participation: Turn your camera on when possible, nod along, and use reaction features to show engagement.

3. Take Notes Visibly: Mention in chat when something resonates: "Really appreciating this point about [topic]."

4. Follow the "Rule of 3": Aim to make at least three substantial comments or questions in each session you attend.

Making Direct Connections:

1. Direct Message Strategically: When messaging someone, reference a specific point they made that resonated with you rather than sending generic "nice to meet you" messages.

2. Visit the Expo Area: Explore the virtual expo booths and chat with our sponsors. These interactions are valuable networking opportunities and a great way to learn about new tools and resources while supporting the organizations that make RootsCamp possible.

3. Create Connection Points: Share a relevant resource, article, or tool related to their work or interests.

4. Be Specific About Follow-Up: Instead of "Let's connect sometime," try "I'd love to continue this conversation. Would you have 15 minutes next week to discuss [specific topic]?"

5. Session Hopping Strategy: Review the schedule and attend sessions that attract people in your target network. Remember, RootsCamp encourages session hopping!

Post-Session Networking:

1. Quick Follow-Up: Send connection requests on LinkedIn/Twitter within 24 hours, referencing the specific session you shared.

2. Create Shared Documents: Offer to compile and share notes from sessions with other attendees.

3. Volunteer for Collaborative Work: If breakout rooms lead to shared interests, volunteer to help organize or lead future discussions.

4. Join the Slack Community: Continue conversations in our new GAIN Power Slack community: and join the RootsCamp channel for questions

💬 Remember RootsCamp Rule #2: "Everyone Participates, No One Spectates"

Even in a virtual setting, RootsCamp thrives on active engagement. If you see a discussion that's missing, step up and propose it! The unconference format means your voice shapes the conversation.

Ready to join the movement? Register now and start exploring the virtual space!

See you in the virtual halls of RootsCamp starting Monday, March 17th!

P.S. Don't forget to check out previously announced sessions like "Wizards of Ops," "Building a Leadership Ladder to Organize Donors," and "Audience, Brevity, Clarity: Understanding the ABC's of Messaging" – or propose your own session if you don't see what you're looking for!

P.P.S. Please take time to visit our sponsors in the expo area – their support makes RootsCamp possible, and they offer valuable resources and tools for your organizing work!

Register Now

Subscribe now

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In a world where miles divide us, but purpose unites us, Virtual RootsCamp 2025 is a bridge across the distance. Just as past movements were built through kitchen-table meetings and handwritten manifestos, we now gather in digital town squares, weaving ideas through screens and signals. 💻✨

The future of organizing isn’t bound by physical spaces. It’s built on the voices of those who dare to dream and act—wherever they are. Virtual RootsCamp ensures that no one is left out due to geography or logistics. This is organizing for the future, accessible to all.

Beyond accessibility, virtual gatherings have proven to be powerful learning spaces. Studies from Harvard Business Review show that virtual discussions often foster deeper engagement, with attendees more likely to ask questions and interact in digital formats. Breakout sessions and chat functions allow for real-time discussion, making learning immediate and participatory. 🎓📢

Additionally, virtual learning offers flexibility. Attendees can balance participation with their daily responsibilities, whether that’s caregiving, work, or activism. Virtual RootsCamp is designed for the single parent juggling childcare, the organizer in a red state looking for community, the disabled activist who finds digital spaces more accessible than physical ones.

Virtual RootsCamp is more than a convenience—it’s a commitment to breaking down barriers, ensuring that anyone with the passion to make change has the tools to do so. Whether you’re an experienced organizer or new to the movement, this is your space to grow, connect, and strategize. 🏆

🚀 Join us online from March 17-21, 2025 — no flights, no hotels, just pure organizing energy from the comfort of your space. Let’s redefine movement-building in the digital age.

🔗 Register Now
💙 Support Our Work
📚 Fund A Scholarship

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Every movement has its poets, its strategists, its fighters—but none of it happens without the ones who stand behind the scenes, ensuring the work unfolds seamlessly. They are the ones who welcome, guide, and troubleshoot before a single speech is given. They are volunteers, and they are the heartbeat of Virtual RootsCamp , happening March 17-21, 2025.

This gathering doesn’t run itself—it runs on the energy of people who believe in something bigger than themselves. Volunteers make it possible for changemakers to connect, learn, and strategize by:

✅ Providing tech support – Helping attendees navigate the virtual space, ensuring smooth sessions, and troubleshooting when needed.
✅ Moderating discussions – Keeping conversations engaging, inclusive, and on track.
✅ Assisting with accessibility – Supporting live captioning, chat engagement, and ensuring an equitable experience for all.
✅ General event support – Answering questions, managing virtual rooms, and helping create a welcoming, well-organized experience.

And the best part? Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing. Studies show that volunteering increases happiness, strengthens community bonds, and can even open doors to new career opportunities. According to Independent Sector, the estimated value of a volunteer's time in the U.S. is $31.80 per hour—a testament to the priceless impact volunteers make.

But beyond numbers, the real value of volunteering is in the relationships built, the networks strengthened, and the ripple effects of a single act of service. RootsCamp is more than just an event—it’s a movement. By offering your time, you become part of something transformative, helping to create a space where progressive organizers, campaigners, and activists can come together to strategize, share lessons, and inspire one another.

This work matters. And we need you to help make it happen.

Ready to be part of the magic?

🔗 Sign up now: VOLUNTEER HERE

For questions or to connect, reach out to me directly:
📧 Roderick Smith – roderick@gainpower.org
📞 313-404-5532

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My work continues! With Virtual RootsCamp just 2 weeks away, I want to encourage you to submit a session YOU want to lead — they're due at midnight, March 5.

Submit A Session

We're looking to continue conversations that started in Baltimore AND launch new ones during Virtual RootsCamp. So don't be afraid to submit something that was already covered or a brand new idea. Both are welcome!

Need a little more inspo? Here are some convos we'd love to see folks in this community lead:

• Anti-Elon resistance — how can we undermine the president nobody voted for?

• Supporting federal civil servants — what can we do to support, organize, and do more for the thousands of people who are now out of a job because of Trump + Elon?

• Workplace dynamics — from unionizing to conflict resolution to giving feedback, how can we keep making our workplaces better?

• Going local — whether it's running for office or getting involved in your county political party, what's the big impact we can have outside of federal elections?

Just like in-person RootsCamp, your session doesn't have to be fully baked. It just needs to be something you want to talk with others about! Submit yours today — and be a key part of Virtual RootsCamp.

The air in Baltimore was thick with purpose. A cold February wind wrapped around us as we stepped inside the Maritime Conference Center—not just seeking warmth, but answers, energy, and the spark to keep going.

We came from 43 states, from bustling cities to quiet towns where organizing happens around kitchen tables. Some arrived as seasoned strategists, battle-tested and wise. Others stepped in with fresh eyes, ready to soak in every lesson.

What unfolded was more than a gathering. It was a reckoning, a renewal, a realization: we need each other, and we need more.

You spoke. We listened. One weekend wasn’t enough. Too many moments missed, too many “I wish I could have been in two places at once” moments.

So, we’re making sure no one is left out.

🚨 Virtual RootsCamp is coming—March 17-21! 🚨

💡 What to Expect:

✅ Expanded Access – Join from anywhere and connect with even more progressive activists, strategists, and organizers.
✅ Live & Recorded Sessions – Revisit key conversations from the in-person event plus brand-new virtual exclusives!
✅ Lessons from 2024 – Debrief what worked, what didn’t, and how we build power for 2025 and beyond.
✅ Advocacy & Resistance – Discuss strategies to resist and defeat Trump’s agenda while mobilizing for progressive victories.
✅ Flexible Attendance – Tune in live or catch up with recordings on your schedule.
✅ Interactive Discussions – Engage with speakers, panelists, and fellow changemakers in real time.
✅ Networking Opportunities – Virtual breakouts and small groups to connect with organizers working on similar issues.
✅ Innovative Tools & Resources – Access materials, recordings, and follow-up discussions in an interactive digital hub.

The movement isn’t waiting. The work doesn’t pause. This time, everyone moves forward together—every voice heard, every lesson shared, every organizer empowered.

🔗 Register now and be part of the movement: Sign up here!

🚀 Rootscamp Virtual is coming. Are you ready? 🚀

Leave a comment

Whether you were there for the full conference, just one day, or virtually, we want to get your thoughts on the event.

At this moment in time, we recognize that strategy and organizing are the path forward, and we want to help support that work.

Please take a few minutes (truly, shouldn’t take more than 5) to complete this survey. It will help us tremendously as we work to plan future events.

Onward together,

Natasha & the RootsCamp team

PS: Please keep in touch. Join our GAIN Power Slack community. And if you didn’t join any of the Signal caucus groups, reply to this email and we’ll get you added.

(Special shoutout to Arianna Trujillo-John convening a session here, who was the one that invited me to this space)

Skip 8 bars to today, and it really does feel like we’re in another loop. Once again, Donald Trump is our President, and all the bad things are happening. But I am also older, wiser(ish?), more grounded in community spaces, and still itching for a fight. That’s why it was immensely satisfying to participate this time as a Rootscamp organizer where I did my best to foster the type of space given to me all those years ago.

I was particularly excited to see that one of our breakout sessions has evolved into a permanent organizing chat focused on inspiring bravery among our federal workers to resist the illegal takeover of the bureaucracy by Elon Musk’s DOGE - while intentionally building more durable roots to inspire courage and action among our communities to match this moment.

A fellow organizer has written the following summary of our direct action this Friday. With the support of GAIN Power, we are excited to see the momentum from our conference directly inspire the type of courage and initiative to do good things. Stay tuned for more about Rootscamp as we prepare for next steps after our conference, but for now - we’d like to highlight the urgent work of this organic action led by everyday people that mirrors the power of love and resistance occurring all across the DC area and the country.

Forever in gratitude and solidarity,
Tim Phan

Not Game Over Yet – Join Federal Workers as they Tell Musk to Fork Off 

This Friday, it is Federal workers against DOGE at the Health and Human Services Building at 8:00 am at 200 Independence Ave SW. Please join us! 

We will be there Friday morning because DOGE is heading to Health and Human Services (HHS) next.  HHS is where public servants administer Medicaid and Medicare for over 130 million Americans, process 800 million Social Security payments a year, oversee our food and drug safety through the FDA, guard against future pandemics through the Center for Disease Control, and in general safeguard the public health of our country.  

Our public servants have been holding the fragile threads of our country together despite being told their new bosses want to see them “traumatized” and having their workplaces violently shaken. They were sent an ominous “Fork in the Road” email from the muskrat team telling them to resign or to get ready for a miserable workplace and mass firings. Yet only 1% have taken the bait so far and resigned.  99% are holding firm for the rest of us. It is time to go thank them and flank them.  

We heard all this directly at Rootscamp where a civil servant in attendance stood up and told us how critical, lifesaving services were grinding to a halt.  He recognized that the federal systems that are supposed to take care of us are only as strong as our social movements make them. He also shared that when Trump and Musk feel they have the permission to tear it all down, we need to give federal employees the permission and support to stop these bulldozers in their tracks. At that moment, we all committed to Federal Workers Against Doge. 

Our public servants are the frontline, and they need to know that we appreciate and need them standing firm. They need to know we see them and support them.  We need to send this Administration a message that we will not have our civil service destroyed, our services taken, and power and resources handed over to a tech billionaire leaving working people with nothing. 

It is difficult to lead with an open heart in such cynical times, but our public servants have shown us how. Come this Valentine’s Day to surround HHS with the love they deserve for the heart they have shown. 

Digital Toolkit for anyone who wants to support online : bit.ly/fedsagainstdoge

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RootsCamp began with electrifying speakers. Reggie Hubbard, the resident political wellness guru, discussed what it takes to sustain a movement—caring for yourself and recognizing when something is wrong. We're mad, scared and angry, but we know it can get better.

So, we took a collective deep breath, cleared the spiritual gunk from our systems and committed to finding new paths forward. That is the goal of RootsCamp. We are no longer at a time to wait and see; we will no longer wait for someone else to tell us what we need to do.

We are with some of our movement's most impactful and influential leaders—those who joined this fight in just the past five months and those who have been fighting for nearly 50 years, such as Heather Booth, who reminded us that while the tactics are horrifying, this is nothing new. She shared lessons from her decades of community organizing experience, from traveling in the South during Freedom Summer 1964 to starting a pre-Roe underground abortion fund to founding the Midwest Academy.

The bottom line? Even if it feels insurmountable, when we organize, we can still create change with a ripple effect of outcomes, informing the answers we need for the unknown obstacles we’ll face.

RootsCamp is the starting point for the path forward. It’s our collective opportunity to have the conversations we need to start innovating, planning, strategizing, and acting. And that is EXCITING… it's liberating. We are the change we’ve been waiting for.

Tune into our plenary today at 4:15 pm ET to hear from Rep. Romman, GA State Representative for HD 97 and co-founder of the Georgia Volunteer Hub, and A'shanti Gholar, the First Black woman to lead Emerge and founder of The Brown Girls Guide to Politics.

Learn more about Reggie Hubbard: Active Peace Yoga

Register for the RootsCamp Event App

We're just a few hours away from the start of RootsCamp, and I'm super excited to see so many movement leaders at the in-person gathering that GAIN POWER is organizing along with a kickass group of staff, consultants, sponsors, partners, panel leaders, guest speakers, and awesome venue team. We decided to pull this event together after the election, just before the holidays. It has been a chaotic experience over one of the most distressful periods that I can remember in my life, but I'm so glad we're doing it. Reviewing my opening remarks, I’m overwhelmed by what we have accomplished quickly. It is IMPERFECT, MESSY, and 100% not how I wish it would be. The list of things I wish we had more time to better organize is long, but I'm so glad we're doing it anyway.

For those coming in person, I’m excited to see you shortly.

For those who have signed up for this newsletter but cannot attend in person, you can still participate!

We will be live streaming some of what happens live. Many sessions WILL NOT be recorded. This is at the discretion of each panel organizer. And maybe somewhat on the fly.

Register to be part of what is online and learn more about what isn’t in our Zoom event

Join The RootsCamp Event App

This is the general schedule/time slots.

These are some of the approved individual sessions. Please note that this is subject to change. Some may not happen, and others will be added. Don’t depend on this list; use it to learn about what will happen.

We will invite every session leader to repeat their session virtually in a few weeks, so stay tuned for an announcement about this next week. Please know we’re trying to make as much of RootsCamp available as possible for those who could not join us in person this week.

If you want to watch the live stream, you can register here:

Register To Attend

Saturdays bring a different kind of energy. The work of the week is behind us, but momentum doesn’t stop—it accelerates. ⚡ It’s the day where ideas turn into plans 📝, where movement turns into action 🚀, and where we decide that the fight for change doesn’t rest.

At RootsCamp, Saturday isn’t just the last day—it’s the launchpad. 🚀 It’s when connections solidify 🤝, strategies sharpen 🎯, and we take everything we’ve built and push it forward. This is where organizers, activists, and changemakers come together to make sure progress doesn’t just happen—it gains power. 💪⚡

This is where we step into the future, together.

Let’s get to work. 🔥

🌟 What to Expect at RootsCamp 2025 🌟

🔹 It’s an unconference—YOU shape the agenda, lead sessions, and bring the knowledge, experiences, and strategies that drive real change.
🔹 It’s collaborative—Expect real conversations, deep connections, and game-changing ideas.
🔹 It’s about action—We don’t just talk about change—we make it happen.

🎤 Featured Speakers 🎤

Heather Booth — civil rights activist, feminist, political strategist, and co-founder of JANE, a pre-Roe abortion fund, the first campus women’s liberation organization, and the Midwest Academy

A’shanti Gholar — first Black woman to lead Emerge, the nation’s largest network of women elected officials and candidates, and founder of The Brown Girls Guide to Politics

Reggie Hubbard — certified yoga teacher who also worked as congressional liaison and senior political strategist for MoveOn.org, Bernie Sanders presidential campaign, and the Obama White House

Stephanie Noguera — president of GAIN Power

Georgia Rep. Ruwa Romman — first Muslim woman elected to the Georgia State House and first Palestinian elected to any public office in the state, co-founder of the Georgia Volunteer Hub

Emmy Ruiz — senior advisor to President Biden, director of the Office of Political Strategy & Outreach

Judson Scanlon — the first openly transgender candidate to run for a seat in the Arkansas legislature who has worked in politics for 30 years

Emma Sharkey — partner at Elias Law Group where she is one of the nation’s leading ballot measure attorneys

Reyna Walters — vice chair of civic engagement and voter protection at the Democratic National Committee

Billy Wimsatt — executive director of Movement Voter Project who has advised donors to strategically invest tens of millions of dollars in 100s of organizations and initiatives in 48 states

📅 Schedule Overview 📅

🗓 Thursday, February 6
🍽️ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM | Lunch
📝 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Registration
👋 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM | Welcome
🤝 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM | Caucuses
🥂 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM | Dinner
🔥 6:15 PM - 7:00 PM | Plenary
🎉 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM | Happy Hour
🎭 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM | Fun/Meetings

🗓 Friday, February 7
☕ 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Breakfast
🎤 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM | Morning Assembly
💡 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM | Breakout Session 1
☕ 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM | Morning Break
💡 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM | Breakout Session 2
🍽️ 12:15 PM - 1:30 PM | Lunch Break
💡 1:30 PM - 2:45 PM | Breakout Session 3
☕ 2:45 PM - 3:00 PM | Afternoon Break
💡 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM | Breakout Session 4
🔥 4:15 PM - 5:45 PM | Plenary
🍽️ 5:45 PM - 7:00 PM | Dinner
🎭 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Fun/Meetings

🗓 Saturday, February 8
☕ 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Breakfast
🎤 9:00 AM - 9:15 AM | Morning Assembly
💡 9:15 AM - 10:30 AM | Breakout Session 5
☕ 10:30 AM - 10:45 AM | Morning Break
💡 10:45 AM - 12:00 PM | Breakout Session 6
🍽️ 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM | Lunch Break
🔥 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM | DNC Vice Chairs
💡 1:30 PM - 2:45 PM | Breakout Session 7
☕ 2:45 PM - 3:00 PM | Afternoon Break
🔥 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM | Plenary
🎤 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM | Closing Assembly

🚀 For Employers: Join the Expo & Career Fair 🚀

Are you looking to connect with passionate changemakers, find top talent, or raise awareness about your organization? The RootsCamp Expo & Career Fair is your opportunity to engage with hundreds of progressive leaders, organizers, and advocates.

💼 By sponsoring RootsCamp, your organization gains:

✅ A platform to showcase your mission and work
✅ A direct pipeline to progressive talent looking for new opportunities
✅ A chance to network with key movement leaders and stakeholders

💰 Sponsorship Levels 💰

From Principal Sponsor ($75,000) 💎 to NanoWatt Sponsor ($1,250) ⚡, every sponsorship package includes a table at the Expo and Career Fair. You can explore additional benefits for each sponsorship tier here.

🎟️ Ready to Join Us? 🎟️

📧 Contact Natalie Rojas at natalie@simplemajority.org to secure your table.
📞 For more details or to discuss a custom package, reach out to Akilah Ensley at akilah@invictusstrategygroup.com or 919.671.5363.

📍 Join Us in Linthicum Heights, MD! 📍

📅 February 6-8, 2025

🔥 Register now and step into what’s next. The movement needs you. And so do we. ✊💥

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