Why Gratitude Belongs in Activism

This week, our Checklist includes thank-yous to several Republican lawmakers for doing something morally or constitutionally right. Over the years, this practice has surprised our readers.

In these deeply divided times, it can feel like conservatives and progressives are living on entirely different planets. Our visions for the future diverge wildly. But there’s one truth we cannot escape: we are all Americans. And if our democracy is going to survive and thrive, we must find ways to recognize and reinforce the values we do share.

To be clear, we’re a nonpartisan publication that supports efforts toward a thriving democracy and a nation that treats all its residents with respect and kindness. 

Expressing gratitude is not about agreeing with everything a politician does. On the contrary, we find many elected officials doing unconstitutional and unethical things. Gratitude is about noticing and appreciating the small and great moments of courage and integrity.

When elected officials go against their party’s norms to uphold democratic principles—whether that’s defending voting rights, speaking out against authoritarianism, or simply telling the truth—we choose to acknowledge this. Even if we object to 99% of the things a person does, it still takes courage to go against the group-think. Especially in this era when political retribution is a real threat, when leaders choose justice, fairness, and constitutional values—regardless of party affiliation, it is praiseworthy

Our Acts of Gratitude aren’t just a nice thing to do—it’s good strategy. Positive feedback (especially from constituents) invites them to act with courage again, and opens the door to further conversation. It says, “I see your integrity, and I value it.” 

That doesn’t mean we excuse harmful views or ignore efforts to legislate injustice—our Checklist is full of ways to oppose those wrongs—it means we keep our hearts open enough to notice when someone steps up, and take the time to say so.

Gratitude also transforms us. It’s genuinely good for calming our nervous systems. It reminds us that changing hearts is possible, that people are complex, and that our activism isn’t just about fighting against what’s wrong—but building up what is right. Expressing appreciation, even when it seems counterintuitive, is an act of hope.

It’s not always easy. But is it worthwhile? Absolutely.

If we want to heal our democracy, we have to start finding common ground, no matter how minute, with people we might be quick to judge or dismiss. Gratitude is one tool to do that. It’s not a surrender of our values—it’s a powerful affirmation of them.

This week, the Checklist includes thanking people who made the hard choice to do what’s right. Let’s keep practicing that kind of activism too —our democracy depends on it.