Despite today, I still believe in the future of America
- Jen McMillin
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
Welcome back to Sunshine Strategies Radio—your weekly source of news, civic wisdom, and ways we can all make a difference, together. I’m your host, Jen, coming to you from the heart of Illinois, where the corn is high and the stakes for democracy are even higher.
We begin this episode with a reflection—words to anchor us, challenge us, and remind us of who we are:
The American Creed I believe in the future of America, with faith born not of words but of deeds—achievements won by the strength of our people and the resilience of our democracy.I believe that a just and free nation, built on hard work and unity, can endure through the trials of history and grow stronger with each generation. I believe in the promise of opportunity for all, knowing that success comes to those who strive with integrity and purpose.I believe in the dignity of every individual and the responsibility of citizenship—in the power of communities to shape a brighter tomorrow through service, leadership, and compassion.I believe in an America where liberty and justice are not just ideals but realities, upheld by those who defend truth, embrace diversity, and foster peace.I believe that through our collective effort, we can sustain and strengthen this nation—not for personal gain, but for the good of all—so that the generations to come may inherit a country ever more free, ever more just, and ever more united.
It’s a beautiful vision, isn’t it? But here’s the question we’re staring down today: Does this country—right now—look like the America in that creed?
Because as of this morning, Congress has passed what they’re calling the “Big, Beautiful Bill.” The name might sound like a bedtime story, but what’s inside? Well… it reads more like a wake-up call.
Let’s break it down.
🧾 WHAT’S IN THE BILL?
The “Big, Beautiful Bill”—yes, that’s the actual name—was introduced by the majority party as a sweeping package of reforms, but critics argue it’s sweeping in the wrong direction.
Here’s what’s in it:
Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid under the guise of “efficiency.”
Restrictions on voting access, especially in communities of color and college campuses.
Rollbacks of climate protections, calling environmental policy “anti-growth.”
Broad immunities for federal law enforcement, raising concerns about civil liberties.
And perhaps most quietly but most disturbingly—language redefining the role of federal education funding that could gut public schools.
If it sounds like a wishlist from the most extreme corners of American politics… that’s because it is.
❗ WHY IT MATTERS
This bill isn’t just a policy shift—it’s a test. Of us. Of our resolve. Of whether we believe that democracy is something we do—or just something we say.
And let’s be clear: this isn’t about left vs. right. It’s about top vs. bottom. Power vs. people. The architects of this bill aren’t looking out for families in Peoria or union workers in Decatur. They’re not thinking about your kids' schools or your grandma’s doctor’s visit. They’re thinking about donors, dynasties, and the next headline.
💪 WHAT YOU CAN DO THIS WEEK
So what do we do about it?
Let me be clear: despair is a luxury we cannot afford. And outrage without action? That’s just noise. What we need is organized, focused, community-rooted effort.
Here’s what you can do this week:
Call your reps. Even if they voted the wrong way, let them know you’re watching. And if they voted the right way? Thank them. That matters.
Show up at local town halls. Make public noise where it counts.
Support grassroots groups working to protect voting rights, health care, and education—especially in swing districts.
And parents? Talk to your kids. Teach them what’s happening, in age-appropriate ways. Civic literacy starts young.
🌻 IN CLOSING
The American Creed isn’t a guarantee. It’s a promise we keep alive together.
Bills will come and go. But our democracy—that’s ours. And it’s worth fighting for.
So let’s take that belief—the one we said out loud at the top of the show—and back it up with action, community, and the fierce kind of hope that grows stronger the more you use it.
I’m Jen with Sunshine Strategies Radio. Keep shining, keep striving—and keep believing in that brighter tomorrow. We’ve got work to do.
Comments