A coalition comprising civil rights leaders, Democrats, and grassroots activists is encouraging communities to bypass President Donald Trump’s upcoming congressional address and instead engage with a 24-hour livestream spotlighting what they perceive as detrimental actions during his tenure. The initiative, spearheaded by organizers like Jaime Harrison, aims to provide a platform for authentic community voices, countering what they anticipate to be misinformation from Trump. Scheduled to address Congress for the first time since his return to office, Trump is expected to highlight his administration’s achievements, including efforts to curtail diversity and inclusion programs nationwide.

The livestream, primarily targeting African American audiences but open to all, will feature a diverse array of voices, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus, faith leaders, and activists. Running from midnight Monday to midnight Tuesday, the program will run concurrently with Trump’s congressional speech, focusing on critical issues such as the impact of conservative policy agendas and opposition to the administration’s rollback of diversity initiatives.

Organizers stress the urgency of unity and action in response to what they perceive as threats to marginalized communities. A call to action will prompt viewers to engage with local programs and share credible information. With thousands already registered, the program promises a robust lineup of discussions and panels, culminating in a town hall featuring prominent speakers. By offering an alternative perspective and context, organizers aim to provide viewers with a counterpoint to Trump’s address, which they caution may prioritize rhetoric over factual accuracy. Through this initiative, they seek to empower communities to stand resilient in the face of challenges and uncertainties.