Why We Can’t Afford to Stay Silent This Holiday Season
This isn’t the article I wanted to write, and it’s not the article most people want to read right now. As climate advocates, losing an election to leaders who deny science or delay action is devastating. But hope isn’t lost. Change doesn’t come from silence; it comes from hard, uncomfortable conversations. And as much as we’d like to enjoy a drama-free holiday season, we can’t afford to sit this one out. The midterms are just two years away, and the decisions we make now can help shift the balance in 2026.
Constantly centering politics can be exhausting, especially given the political landscape that has taken shape since 2016. But ignoring the climate crisis is a privilege most people don’t have! We’re already seeing rising seas, extreme weather, and devastating wildfires displace millions of people globally, often affecting marginalized communities the hardest. Many families are being forced to leave their homes and livelihoods behind, becoming climate refugees because they can no longer farm the land they depend on. Addressing the climate crisis is one of the best ways we can reduce migration for survival and create a more stable, fair world. Elections and the policies they shape matter because they can touch every part of our lives—and that is precisely why staying engaged is so important!
WHY HARD CONVERSATIONS MATTER
Nobody looks forward to a holiday derailed by your uncle insisting the election was stolen or your aunt arguing that climate change is a hoax. But meaningful change often starts at home. These moments aren’t just about correcting someone—they’re about learning together. Research shows that people are more likely to reconsider their views when the challenge comes from someone they trust¹. That’s you. Your voice matters, even if it sometimes feels like you’re shouting into the void.
Misinformation isn’t just frustrating—it’s dangerous. When myths about climate science or renewable energy go unchallenged, they shape policies that delay critical action and put human lives at risk. Most recently, the gas stove sector has drawn attention for its decades-long role in the fossil fuel industry’s misinformation campaigns. Despite decades of evidence showing the health damage caused by natural gas, billions have been spent to mislead the public about its impacts on our health, wealth, and environment.²
Since the election, we’ve seen a noticeable shift online—people from both sides of the political spectrum are finally looking deeper into Trump’s policies and their potential consequences. It’s frustrating that it has taken this long, but these moments of realization open the door to honest, necessary conversations. And while it’s tempting to focus only on what’s gone wrong, it’s just as important to talk about what’s going right. For example, the Inflation Reduction Act already is creating thousands of manufacturing jobs while driving historic investments in clean energy. Many people don’t even know about these wins yet—and sharing that information is one way we can inspire hope and action. These conversations aren’t easy, but they’re necessary.
HOW TO NAVIGATE THESE CONVERSATIONS
Be Curious & Ask Questions:
Instead of lecturing, try asking open-ended questions like, “What have you seen that makes you believe that?” or “Have you looked into other perspectives or sources on this issue?” These encourage dialogue and might help them see gaps in their own understanding. It’s also helpful to understand what the person you’re speaking with values, enabling you to tailor your points to resonate with their concerns. For example, if someone is skeptical about climate change but values economic growth, you could highlight how renewable energy creates jobs and stimulates local economies.
Use “I” Statements:
Do your best to avoid making it personal or accusatory. Instead of “you’re spreading lies,” try, “I’ve seen a lot of misinformation about that topic, and it worries me because it’s not based on facts.” Sharing personal experiences can also be a powerful way to connect—if you feel comfortable doing so. Not everyone is ready or willing to open up, and that’s perfectly okay! However, for some, hearing a firsthand account from someone they know can make abstract issues like climate change feel more real and relatable. Be careful not to let personal anecdotes be misinterpreted as evidence for broad generalizations or harmful stereotypes.
Find Common Ground:
Even with people whose politics feel completely opposite, you can often find shared concerns. Maybe they care about their children’s health or enjoy spending time outdoors. Start with what you both care about and work from there. Sometimes, acknowledging shared values can make someone more open to hearing a different perspective. Remember, you’re not trying to “win” the conversation; you’re trying to encourage deeper thought!
Know When to Walk Away:
Some conversations won’t go anywhere, no matter how much effort you put in. If things become too heated or it’s clear the other person isn’t engaging in good faith, then step away. You can’t fix everything in one night, and it’s important to prioritize your own well-being. Taking a break doesn’t mean giving up—it means saving your energy for when it can make the most impact.
Come Prepared with the Facts:
Don’t just rely on gut feelings or vague statements. Bring “receipts”. Here are some resources to help prepare and guide you through conversations on key issues:
CLIMATE CHANGE: more information here
IMMIGRATION
FOREIGN AFFAIRS
THE 2024 ELECTION + MISINFORMATION
ABORTION + REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS
LGBTQIA+ RIGHTS
THE ECONOMY
The holidays might feel like a time to put politics aside, but we don’t have that luxury. I’ll be honest—no one wants to be doing this. I’d much rather spend my time catching up on hobbies or relaxing with friends instead of staying hyper-educated and constantly engaged. While it’s exhausting, there’s power in showing up. We do this for those who don’t have the privilege to 'not care'—for communities on the frontlines of climate disasters, for the kids who will inherit this planet, and for everyone who’s been silenced or harmed by power and privilege. The midterm elections are only two years away. This fight won’t win itself—it’s on us to keep showing up.
