Donna Brazile began by admonishing Nigerians saying “Nigerians must ensure that each citizen has an equal share in the governing of their nation. The hallmark of every democracy is for every citizen to be heard. Everyone deserves a place at the table not only during election season but also after elections and beyond. While the majority of decisions will determine the future, the minority input is always important so that policies that are enacted are respected by everyone”.

She went further to speak on the power of grassroots mobilization. She defined grassroots mobilization as an activity that brings people around a simple idea and causes change. “Grassroots mobilization requires us to have more leaders at the table, not just leaders that are chosen but those that are inspired to lead”. This is done by starting where we are and using the present resources we have.

Next, she spoke about its importance saying: “We are able to empower people to grow and make change happen”.

Subsequently, she outlined how grassroots mobilization works emphasizing that it is built around the simple principle that you have to bring people together and give them the freedom to make a difference. She presented seven meta-strategies for the grassroots movement as follows: Policy Change and Advocacy, Nonviolent Action and Civil Disobedience Challenges to legal Authority and Legitimacy, Political Resistance, Social Transformation, Economic Means and Leveraging and finally Citizen Action and Empowerment.

She said the way to go about actually doing it is to build your base. “When you build your base, people are more confident in the actions that you will take and you will be successful”. She continued by saying “We need to keep building till we have enough people to pass the message forward such that the political leaders will help you build your campaign”. 

She reiterated how important engagement is saying; “We need leadership and commitment to building the campaign. The participation of ordinary citizens, the awareness of its importance and the interest of everyone that allows you to achieve your goals”.

She went further to mention some best practices for grassroots mobilization which include keeping it simple, inspiring people to change, educating people, assigning meaningful tasks, etc.

She said it’s important that we utilize both online and offline tools that will enable us to reach people where they are and beyond our borders.

In conclusion, she encouraged us to keep it simple, talk to the masses in a way that they understand and try to connect with them just as Barrack Obama did while he was President. “Every movement rests on a powerful message” she quoted illustrating how Barack Obama had a message of hope which he enacted by connecting with people. “It starts with communicating with people such that they understand what you are trying to do. Keep it simple, don’t make it complicated.”