February 2026 is marked by a somber reflection on the ongoing struggles for civil rights in the United States. Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, expresses concern that the Trump administration is systematically undermining the achievements of the Civil Rights Movement. He argues that such actions echo a desire to revert to a time reminiscent of the Gilded Age and the era of Jim Crow laws. The slogan “Make America Great Again” is interpreted by Johnson as a thinly veiled call to “Make America White Again.”
Johnson emphasizes the current moment as both perilous and revealing, suggesting that it exposes vulnerabilities within the MAGA movement. He believes the Civil Rights Movement, recognized as one of the most successful pro-democracy movements in American history, offers a roadmap for countering the challenges posed by Trumpism.
Understanding the Intersection of Race and Class
In a recent conversation, Johnson discussed the complexities of race and class in the current political landscape. He explained that race often serves as a tool for maintaining social control, while class acts as a buffer. By promoting narratives that blame marginalized communities for the struggles of working-class white Americans, those in power can distract from the broader issues affecting all working-class citizens.
Johnson remarked, “Race is a tool that is used to maintain domination and control in this society.” He stressed the need for a clear understanding of how these dynamics operate to help Americans navigate the confusing political environment.
The definition of what it means to be an American is also shifting, according to Johnson. He pointed to troubling incidents in Minneapolis, where warrantless searches and aggressive actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have raised alarms about civil liberties. Johnson noted that the Constitution should protect everyone, regardless of immigration status, and that violations of these rights must be addressed collectively.
The Role of the NAACP in Challenging Authoritarianism
The NAACP is strategically focused on the upcoming elections, recognizing the significance of voter turnout among African Americans. Although they represent approximately 13% of the U.S. population, only 11% of ballots were cast by this demographic in the 2024 elections. Johnson emphasizes the urgency of increasing participation to ensure that African American voices are represented in shaping the future of democracy.
Furthermore, the NAACP is actively engaged in legal battles to defend voting rights and protect the constitutional rights of all citizens. Johnson highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the current administration, which he claims is attempting to manipulate voter rolls and control the electoral process in a bid to maintain power.
The Trump administration’s recent actions, including orders to raid election offices in Fulton County, Georgia, are seen as part of a broader strategy to undermine democratic processes. Johnson warns that these efforts threaten the very foundation of American democracy, asserting, “Our vote is our currency, and the Trump administration is trying to figure out how to undercut that currency.”
Johnson describes the civil rights division of the Department of Justice as having been repurposed to protect the interests of white Americans, rather than safeguarding the rights of marginalized groups. He views this shift as a distortion of the original mission of the Civil Rights Movement, pointing out the surreal nature of these developments.
Despite these challenges, Johnson remains hopeful. He encourages those engaged in activism to persist in their efforts, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and support for one another. He likens the struggle for democracy to running a marathon, where endurance and resilience are crucial for achieving long-term goals.
As Black History Month unfolds, Johnson reflects on the lessons of perseverance from the past. He believes that the history of Black Americans is one of triumph over adversity and asserts that this legacy should inspire current and future generations to continue fighting for justice and equality.
In a time when the threats to democracy are significant, Johnson maintains that there is potential for a brighter future, rooted in the collective efforts of those committed to the cause. He is confident that this struggle will ultimately lead to a better America, stating, “We will get through this and create a better future.”
