Fierce Unity (Why Unity can be Fierce AF)

Fierce unity does not ignore difference. It is not uniformity or elite bipartisanship. It is everyday people risking being uncomfortable by finding common ground with people who disagree.

Searching out “fierce unity” can help us overcome a lot of divides in our homes and places of work. Fierce unity also explains why so many of us struggle with the idea of unity in our national politics.

Sometimes it feels as if everyone wants unity, but fears it may mean giving up what we believe. Or that the unity that will show up will help the rich and well-connected at the expense of the down-and-out. 

That is cheap unity, in my opinion. It makes a lot of people feel comfortable and leaves a whole lot of underdogs feeling forgotten. It substitutes shows of patriotism for truth-telling, and stereotypes of what it means to be “American” for the way more complicated reality.

There is something better, though. Fierce unity does not ignore difference. It is not uniformity or elite bipartisanship. It is everyday people risking being uncomfortable by finding common ground with people who disagree with you on everything. It means starting with the people who are hurting the most, even if they are not on our side politically – and then looking for unlikely allies and commonsense solutions to actually make things better. 

Fierce unity does not search for political opponents but for places where common pain can turn into common purpose. Fierce unity starts with our common humanity, celebrates diversity, confronts common problems, and dares to dream of an America on the other side of systemic racism, the climate crisis, mass incarceration and economic inequality.

That kind of unity – the fierce kind – is worth working for.

Imperfect Uniter of the Week: Michelle Romero

As the Chief Strategy Officer at Dream.Org, Michelle Romero is a champion of fierce unity and leaning into your imperfections to create change. She has had an unconventional journey in the worlds of environmental justice and systems change, making waves, breaking barriers, and coming together with the most unlikely of allies. Read about her achievements in the world of bridge building in her recent interview with Authority Magazine.

Ways to Connect:

• LinkedIn: Michelle Romero
• Instagram: @michelledreams2

Authority Magazine interview: How Michelle Romero Of Dream Org Is Helping to Promote Sustainability and Climate Justice