Today, we honour Martin Luther King Day, a moment to celebrate a man who stood for justice, equality, and the power of love over hate. His vision of a compassionate world has inspired generations to dream of a future free from oppression and fear.
And yet, today also marks the inauguration of Donald Trump as President of the United States. The contrast couldn’t be starker. While King’s legacy reminds us of the power of unity, empathy, and truth, Trump’s return to power signals a period of division, disinformation, and uncertainty for millions.
Donald Trump’s return to the presidency is a moment many of us have dreaded. Aside from the cruelty of so many of his policies and his catastrophic climate denial, his approach to governance – wielding Executive Orders with little regard for accountability – places immense power in the hands of one man. And with the backing of tech billionaires who profit from division, Trump’s ability to destabilise democracy, spread disinformation, and embolden hate cannot be underestimated.
It’s a moment of fear, particularly for marginalised communities who know all too well what this kind of leadership means for their safety and rights. For many, this day will feel like a step backwards, a validation of values that run counter to everything King stood for.
Trump’s success is also a warning signal to all democracies. The far right is on the rise and here in the UK we have already had a taste of what is to come with Musk’s vituperous attacks on British politicians. We have seen him whip up hate with toxic lies amplified by social media.
And so, on this day, we must acknowledge both the fear and the responsibility we carry. It is not enough to be outraged by Trump’s return or despair at what lies ahead. We are on notice and we must take action to ensure the values King championed – truth, justice, and accountability – are reflected in our own political system. That means taking decisive steps now to protect our democracy.
We need to ensure that Westminster follows Wales’ lead and legislates to ban political deception. We need to end the fiction that social media platforms aren’t publishers, taking them down if they undermine the rule of law and democracy. And we must urgently tackle the economic deprivation that creates the soil in which extremism grows. We must build a system that prioritises compassion over division.
Compassion has never been more important. So today, let’s recommit to building a world where kindness, equality, and truth are not ideals but realities. Let’s make sure our democracy is safe and fit for the threats of this digital age and that all our citizens’ needs are met.
Let’s build a new and better politics fit for the 21st Century
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With solidarity and resolve,
Jenifer Nadel
Co-Director, Compassion in Politics