Coined by civil rights icon Congressman John Lewis, Good Trouble is the act of coming together to take peaceful, nonviolent action to challenge injustice. The power of collective nonviolent action resulted in the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 – and we need that same collective action to fight for voting rights today. Because they know our country is strongest when voters show up, speak out and exercise our power, politicians in Congress and in state legislatures have pushed multiple bills to keep eligible Americans from voting. Aided by the Supreme Court’s disastrous decision to gut the Voting Rights Act, states are now rushing in maps designed to control the results of our elections and stifle black and brown voting power. The way we honor Congressman Lewis’ life and work is to organize, educate and take action. Please join us!
This year’s Good Trouble Lives On (GTLO) forum is part of the 2026 Survival Revival – a collective effort by community leaders, activists, organizers and residents to meet the immediate needs of our neighbors while building a stronger, more resilient Springfield. In this moment of both crisis and opportunity our community can do more than simply survive the challenges we face. We are working together to strengthen our connections, build community power and create a city where everyone has the opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive. Throughout the afternoon there will be direct action opportunities, education, and engagement around the following issues:
• Police reform and accountability
• Voter education, rights and civic engagement (GTLO Forum)
• Mutual aid and community support networks
There will also be a free community meal, music, a splash pad (!!), speakers and a wonderful opportunity to meet community members who share the same vision for a better country and a better Springfield.
A core principle behind all Good Trouble Lives On events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.