This week, as we gather with loved ones or find quiet moments alone, we are reminded of the power of reflection. At New Energy Economy, we are known for jumping into the fray—challenging extractive industries, fighting for clean energy, and advocating for justice. But this moment calls for something different.
It is a time to pause. To let the sediment of fear, anger, and despair settle. To take stock of the work ahead, the challenges we face, and the clarity we need to act with purpose.
“Do you have the patience to wait till your mud settles and the water is clear? Can you remain unmoving till the right action arises by itself?”—Tao Te Ching
This year, Thanksgiving arrives under a cloud of profound contradictions. While it’s a moment for gratitude, it’s also a time to confront the myths that obscure the holiday’s origins in colonial violence. In truth, this moment demands that we reimagine our traditions—not as a celebration of conquest, but as a recommitment to the work of justice, equity, and care for each other and the planet.
A Moment of Reflection, A Call to Action
The results of the recent election highlight the scale of what we’re up against. Emboldened by the promise of federal deregulation, extractive industries are preparing to escalate their assault on our environment and communities. In New Mexico, home to the Permian Basin—the world’s largest oil field—the stakes couldn’t be higher.
And yet, this is also a moment of opportunity. Here, we have seen what’s possible when we come together:
We've accomplished amazing things together - things that didn't seem possible right before we achieved them. Things like defeating the Avangrid utility merger, securing 100% renewable replacement power for the San Juan coal plant, and passing community solar. In each of these cases we went up against corporate interests with immense power and influence - and together we fought and won, and justice prevailed. Most recently we watched as the Oil Conservation Commission was moved by YOU - over 100 public commenters who came out to give powerful testimony at the PFAS ban hearing. Our collective voices and actions have and will make a difference.These victories remind us of what’s possible when we act together. They remind us that hope is not a passive feeling—it’s something we create through connection, courage, and persistence.
Preparing for the Work Ahead
In the coming months, New Energy Economy will continue to fight for policies that protect our land, water, and people. We’ll advocate for stronger environmental regulations, challenge false solutions, and demand accountability from those who put profit above people. But we also know that this work must go deeper.
We must build not just policies, but power. Not just victories, but visions. We must create the systems, relationships, and resilience needed to transform the extractive model that dominates our economy and our lives.
What This Means for Us
As we pause this week, we are also preparing. Preparing for a NM legislative session where our work to beat back further corporate destruction and fight for state-level protections will be more important than ever. Preparing to mobilize communities, educate policymakers, and challenge the forces that would sacrifice New Mexico’s future for short-term gain. Preparing to weave together the courage and commitment of thousands into a movement capable of real, lasting change.
What This Means for You
We hope this week you will:
Reflect on what grounds you. What are you grateful for? What gives you strength?
Turn toward community. Build trust, share stories, and find joy in connection.
Rest. Breathe. Laugh. Recharge.
And when the time is right, stand with us to fight for the New Mexico we know is possible.
We are grateful for you—our partners, allies, and supporters—who inspire us every day with your commitment to justice and your belief in a better future. Together, we can face the challenges of this moment with clarity, courage, and hope.
We wanted to share this rousing speech by perhaps America’s most venerated justice reformer, Bryan Stevenson, who says: “I believe that injustice prevails where hopelessness persists. I think hopelessness is the enemy of justice.” While the speech focuses on youth justice, it is a road map for all our work - connection, vulnerability, as TaNahesi Coates says, may your words be "haunting", speak out and tell the truth.
And two resources which are helping inform our preparations:The People's Guide to Project 2025 and 10 ways to be prepared and grounded now that Trump has won.
With gratitude and determination,
The New Energy Economy Team
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