This week, Heather Cox Richardson posted a video in which she acknowledges that Americans have good reasons to be feeling freaked out by presidential and Supreme Court overreach. But importantly, she urges people not to feel powerless.

She underscores the importance of civic engagement at every level, particularly in local and state elections, where recent results—such as the defense of abortion rights in Wisconsin—have had major impacts. She encourages her audience to see effective activism as broader than voting alone, encompassing conversations, social media, art, music, and protest as meaningful ways to express and advance shared values.

"It's important to make sure people know this is happening and that you don't support it. It's not acceptable behavior. Although it is frightening and there is much to be scared of, we don't have a choice but to face this. The only way out is through, as Harriet Tubman said. None of us wants to do this, but we need to bring our best effort, and the benefit is that we get to do it together, learn new things, and help create a better world.

"As frustrating and frightening as it is to watch what's going on, this is also a time of extraordinary possibility. We need to bring recognition that we don't support what's happening, but also a vision for the future. We may not all agree, but we need to bring many ideas to the table so people recognize there's something to work for and put into place."

There's a reason she is my go-to source for U.S. political news.

VIDEO: It's Our Job to Make Sure People Know the Truth