Today, we mark the 61st yahrzeits of James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner. In 1964, these men were kidnapped and murdered for organizing to register Black Americans to vote in the South.

For generations, brave freedom fighters have taken risks to create a more liberated future for themselves and for their descendants.

But there have always been risks. There have always been those who have used political violence to try to stop our movement. The Klan members and law enforcement officials who murdered Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner meant to instill fear in all those fighting for access to equality for Black Americans. They meant to use fear to attack a coalition of people from different backgrounds and faiths.

In this moment when many American Jews and allies feel afraid, we look to our ancestors for strength and resolve. Because we still see fear used as a tactic today — from lone actors who commit violence, to arrests of elected officials on television, to Trump’s cruel immigration raids that terrorize communities. Fear is the point — and a strategy they use to stop us.

Our ancestors knew the risks. And they understood, as we understand, that choosing to give in to these fears would not protect them.

Fear has not stopped us in the past and will not stop us now. We do this work for each other and for those to come, so that the future where our descendants continue the work can be less dangerous, more welcoming, and full of possibility.

May we carry the memories of James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner forward, just as we carry the memory of all freedom fighters who took risks for our future — including those whose names we may not know. May their memories be for a blessing, and may we honor their legacy by truly dismantling white supremacy. Until all are safe and free.