Letter from the President

LETTER FROM

Dear MAP Supporter, At the start of last year, our country was at a fork in the road. We glimpsed what happens when deep, toxic polarization goes unchecked, and understood the threat that these forces pose to the future of our democracy. But 2021 showed us that we have a choice about what happens next. We can choose to give up on the very idea of America — the idea that our diversity is a source of strength. On this path, we admit that our differences are too far apart to ever reconcile, and that the systemic incentives that sustain and exacerbate those differences are too great to correct. We give up trying to form a more perfect union. Or, we can choose to heed the warning signs that our democracy is fragile, but it’s worth fighting for. MAP and the young legislators in our Future Caucus network chose this path: instead of allowing inertia and political convenience to govern their actions, they looked for ways to buck the system and do things differently. They demonstrated inclusive problem-solving by building authentic relationships across lines of political difference. They embodied the spirit of a diverse democracy by assembling coalitions to work on kitchen table issues faced by their communities. And in the end, they showed the incredible resiliency, creativity, and collaboration possible among our elected leaders. The next generation of policymakers is proving that our democracy’s best days are ahead of us. Take MAP’s Congressional Future Caucus, who in January decided to renew their commitment to a set of core principles in order to enable effective cross-partisan dialogue, debate, and action. These guidelines served as the foundation for the 274 pieces of bipartisan legislation introduced in 2021 by Future Caucus members in Congress. Or, look to the young lawmakers in Connecticut, who launched a Future Caucus in early February— marking the 31st state to join MAP’s network. These state legislators committed to overcoming polarization during a time when crossparty collaboration seemed impossible. The appetite for connection only grew throughout 2021: MAP’s bipartisan network increased to over 1,600 young legislators; we hosted our biggest Future Summit to date; and we hired seven new full time staff members. The result of such growth is a dedicated movement — a dynamic network of changemakers with a shared vision for a more empathetic, innovative democracy. That vision came to life through the many policy ideas our legislators advanced. Legislators collaborated on renewable energy solutions, inspired by a MAP report revealing the once-in-a-generation opportunity that microgrids present. Young elected leaders successfully championed justice reform in Wisconsin, Colorado, Oregon, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. And policymakers across the political spectrum came together in public and private forums to learn about ways to strengthen our democracy and improve voters’ trust in our electoral systems. We are so proud of what we have accomplished together. 2021 proved once again that young people have the power to affect positive change, and that the next generation of lawmakers can work together to solve our nation’s urgent issues. By investing in young leaders and continuing to build the MAP movement, I believe we can bring transformative change to our Congress, states, and communities. Together, we can continue to transform our politics by redefining what leadership looks like in this country. Thank you for being an indispensable part of MAP’s mission. My first eight months as President & CEO were marked by a tremendous appreciation for each of you, and the ways you elevate this movement. Our work is only possible with leaders, advisors, volunteers, funders, and supporters like you — and we are honored to have you with us on this journey. Onward,

Layla Zaidane President & CEO

THE PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT