Enacting policies consistent with Naturalistic Humanism will require an activist government with sufficient strength and resources necessary to realize progressive goals. Traditionally Americans have been suspicious of big government, and currently it seems as if cynicism and suspicion of government has never been more widespread.
There are good reasons for people to be suspicious of powerful government; which can be corrupt, dysfunctional, and repressive. World history is filled with examples of overly powerful governments leading to dreadful outcomes. But having little to no government is not a viable alternative.
Many who are against effective progressive government overlook that government with a full agenda and the power to carry it out, has long been a feature of American life, albeit mostly for the purpose of protecting those on top of the power hierarchy.
For generations a highly activist American government presided over the enslavement of captured Africans and their descendants, committed genocide, made war against Native Americans and appropriated their lands, protected corporate interests against the struggle of labor for a livable wage and a safe workplace, and enforced a variety of laws and policies that disenfranchised the vast majority. The long-term socio-economic damage of such biased governmental activity cannot be repaired by a minimalist government. It requires a vast compensatory effort and sustained commitment.