Yes, We Can: Moving Beyond Excuses to Embrace Change
I’ll admit it, sometimes, I feel frustrated. Frustrated by the constant roadblocks, the endless excuses, and the all-too-familiar refrain of “no, we can’t.” Whether it’s climate action, social justice, or economic reform, I’ve seen too many instances where ambition has been stifled by complacency. But despite that frustration, I remain hopeful, because I know that with the right leadership, the answer can and should always be “yes, we can.”
We’ve all heard it before: “We can’t afford bold climate action because it’s too expensive.” “We can’t overhaul policies because it’s too complicated.” “We can’t take on systemic inequality because it’s too big of a challenge.” But these excuses often come from leaders who lack the vision, courage, or political will to confront the status quo. This defeatist attitude, often exemplified by parties like the CDU or FDP, has left us with half-measures and delays that we can no longer afford and cripple our economy and society.
What gives me hope is the growing recognition that “no, we can’t” is simply not an acceptable answer anymore. Around Europe and the world, we’ve seen countless examples of progress when people choose bold action over fear. From cities embracing renewable energy transitions to movements demanding social and climate justice, the momentum is undeniable. These aren’t isolated successes, they are proof that change is possible when we decide to act.
“Yes, we can” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a mindset. It’s about believing in solutions, even when the challenges seem overwhelming. It’s about recognizing that every step forward matters, no matter how small, because those steps add up to real progress. It’s about having the courage to imagine a better future and the determination to make it happen.
For me, this mindset is deeply personal. It’s what drives me to engage, to speak out, and to act. It’s why I believe so strongly in the Green Party’s vision for a more sustainable, equitable, and just society. Because when we say “yes, we can,” we’re not just making a promise, we’re making a commitment to the future we want to build.
That’s why I’m calling on everyone to embrace this mindset, especially as we approach critical elections. Yes, we can protect our planet. Yes, we can create a fairer society. Yes, we can overcome the obstacles that have held us back for far too long. But it starts with us, our voices, our actions, and our votes.
To anyone who feels disheartened by the challenges ahead, I urge you to hold onto hope. The road may be difficult, but together, we can achieve incredible things. Let’s leave “no, we can’t” behind and move forward with the confidence and conviction that “yes, we can” is not just possible—it’s necessary.