As Donald Trump began his second term, the atmosphere felt oddly familiar, yet distinctly different. Trump’s anti-immigration stance and hostility toward racial equality remain unchanged, but this time, his administration seems more extreme—and more accepted by mainstream voices. From tech billionaires like Elon Musk amplifying his views to a broader backlash against diversity and inclusion efforts, this Trump presidency feels less like a shock and more like a troubling new norm.

Grassroots politics and community organizing are emerging as vital tools for resistance. During Trump’s inauguration, Rev Al Sharpton led a gathering at a historic Black church in Washington, DC, turning Martin Luther King Day into an act of defiance. The event provided solace and a sense of determination for attendees, who discussed practical ways to push back against policies targeting racial justice. “It was a packed house,” one observer noted. “People were energized, lifting each other’s spirits.”

But challenges remain. Fatigue and division threaten to weaken solidarity. Many Black Americans feel disillusioned after years of resistance efforts—from the Women’s Marches to legal battles over the Muslim ban—only to see Trump prevail again. Some Black celebrities who once criticized Trump now openly support him or perform at his events, a shift that has left others disheartened. “People are scared,” said one attendee at the MLK memorial. “But we’ve been here before. We can fight this.”

The Democratic Party’s absence in this fight has only deepened the frustration. Many feel abandoned by leaders who promised strong opposition to Trump but quickly pivoted to working with him. “How are people supposed to trust the Democrats?” one participant asked. In the void left by mainstream political leadership, grassroots organizers, religious leaders, and activists have stepped up, building coalitions and fostering unity across diverse communities.

From Black Lives Matter chapters to newer groups formed in response to issues like Palestine, young people are mobilizing to tackle the challenges of this presidency. “There’s a lot of fear,” one activist said, “but also a lot of motivation. We’ve overcome worse before.”

As Trump’s second term unfolds, it’s clear that community-driven efforts will play a crucial role in shaping the fight for justice and equality. While the road ahead is daunting, history reminds us that resilience and solidarity can turn the tide. Trump may feel like an era, but in the long arc of civil rights, he’s just another chapter.