#Why I Fight So Hard.
Title: "Why I Fight So Hard"
I've watched for many years as my mother, father, and ancestors fought the "Good fight," as Carl Lewis quoted. Many sacrificed their lives so that people of color and many of us could enjoy the same freedoms and justice as everyone else. I watched as a child, along with my siblings, parents, and many others, navigate through systems that were intentionally designed to hinder us. Our names were tarnished—how the media portrayed us, how industry exploited us, and how those we thought were closest to us sold us out for money. Yes! I am a witness! I am the warrior, the fighter, and the survivor. I am the one who, every morning, wakes up grateful for the opportunity to fight the good fight again.
What does that look like? Being kind to others, reaching inside and outside myself to see where I can serve or help, volunteering at a food pantry, making donations, and, most importantly, showing up for marches and listening to those who’ve been discarded as less than. No, I don't need applause or to hear "you're so great" or "you're so good." No, I am just a small part of the bigger picture; those who stood in the gap before me with organizations like Operation PUSH, led by one of our recently passed leaders, Mr. Jesse Jackson, who stood in the gap with other fallen leaders—Martin Luther King, John Lewis, Meger Evans, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, and Ida B. Wells—and so many others who fought for freedom. YES!! Years ago, I decided I would give my life to help others and stand courageously to speak the truth in the face of adversity. No, I'm not afraid. The only one I fear is God, who lives within me. YES! I am clear about who God is and who I am not. That’s why I strive each day I am allowed to wake up—to become a better version of myself than I was yesterday. I listen to many people who stop to talk, share, and give me their perspectives. People from other countries, who can tell you more about their homeland than anyone else, if you ask. If you want to know anything about Chicago, ask me. I can tell you many things about Chicago and its history. I don't need a tour guide; I've been out in the streets since I was nine years old. I know what Chicago is and isn’t, and I fight every day to inspire, encourage, and show up—I have no excuses. At 71 years young, I see no reason to justify why I don't stand in the gap for those who cannot stand for themselves—those who can't see, walk, or hear. I stand for those who need someone to stand up and lift, and I'm grateful. Remember January 15, as we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday. On January 15, let us all remember August 28, 1963—"The March on Washington." Dr. King so eloquently said, "I had a dream that one day all men will be judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." I sat and watched with my parents, as so many others watched, as the world watched.
"I Stand On These Truths"
By: Cora F. Rambert
January 14, 2026
6:30am
Written by Cora F. Rambert
(Owner, full copyrights)
Reflecting on a lifetime dedicated to activism and social justice, I find the phrase "fighting the good fight" deeply resonant. Growing up in Chicago, a city rich with civil rights history yet marked by systemic struggles, has shaped my perspective and resolve. From an early age, I witnessed how media portrayals and economic exploitation targeted communities of color, often perpetuating negative stereotypes and injustice. Volunteering at food pantries and participating in marches are more than actions—they're ways to connect with and uplift those often overlooked or discarded. These experiences have taught me the power of kindness and listening; by hearing the stories of fellow community members, including those displaced or disenfranchised, I see the multifaceted nature of struggle and resilience. Organizations like Operation PUSH and leaders such as Jesse Jackson and Martin Luther King Jr. have laid the groundwork for today's activism, teaching us that change requires bravery and commitment. Each day, I strive to embody their legacy—not for recognition, but to stand for those who cannot stand for themselves. Drawing inspiration from the powerful poems of Maya Angelou and the enduring truths of historical leaders Ida B. Wells and Rosa Parks, my fight is rooted in faith and a deep sense of purpose. God’s presence within offers strength to face adversity without fear. Sharing knowledge about Chicago’s rich history reminds me that place and identity are inseparable from the fight for justice. Being ‘in the streets’ since childhood, I’ve seen firsthand both progress and setbacks, fueling my passion to keep pushing forward. On commemorative days like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday or the anniversary of the March on Washington, I feel a renewed call to action. Remembering the dream that all people be judged by character—not skin color—pushes me to keep speaking truth and inspiring others. In essence, fighting hard means living in service, standing boldly in the face of challenges, and working daily to create a more just and compassionate world for future generations.
