Month: April 2018

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 4/26/18

Local

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss – April

 

Friday, April 27th, 6:30-8:30pm, Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell, and UnChARTed, 103 Market Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to protest against the atrocities of the Trump administration. Please bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, after the demonstration, come to UnChARTed to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/234603980439420/

Postcards for Progress – Spring Edition

 

Saturday, April 28, 10am-12pm, Coffee and Cotton, Mill No. 5, 4th Floor, 250 Jackson Street, Lowell

We’ll be writing to our elected officials and directly to voters! Open to all who want to help with progressive causes. A list of suggested topics, progressive but non-partisan, will be provided, but people are of course welcome to bring their own ideas.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/234948983718026/

 

1st Canal Cleaning of the Season – Ecumenical Plaza

 

Saturday, April 28, 9am-12pm, 282 Suffolk Street, Lowell

Please join us for our first canal cleanup of the season at Ecumenical Plaza on Suffolk St. between St Patrick’s church and Holy Trinity Church, Saturday April 28th 9 am till noon as we clean up in preparation for the Points of Light Celebration later in the day. Last year’s event was a huge success, attended by over a thousand people, who watched nearly a thousand lanterns released to float down the canal. We urge any of our Canalwaters Cleaners to attend this free event to experience what is possible with clean canals, we hope to see you at the cleanup and the Lantern Celebration! We’ll have plenty of tools, but don’t forget to bring gloves.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1994164797515172/

 

2nd Annual Points of Light Lantern Festival

 

Saturday, April 28, 6-10pm, 282 Suffolk Street, Lowell

A spring celebration of unity and renewal that brings together the food, music, and traditions of Lowell’s diverse cultures. For 2018, we’re adding more space for people to view their lanterns; providing more opportunities beforehand for our community to personalize lanterns with their wishes, remembrances, and creative expressions; and working with Lowell’s diverse communities, artists, and organizations to add special touches to a magical night. We’ll be keeping the elements we heard the community liked, including performances from youth groups and professionals, displaying all the creative and inspiring lanterns prior to their launch, and working toward keeping the event as close to zero-waste as possible.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/399160493878875/

 

Immigrant Rights Subcommittee Meeting

 

Monday, April 30th, 6:30-8pm, Eliot Presbyterian Church, 273 Summer Street, Lowell

For members who signed up for the trust act subcommittee (getting a Trust Act passed in Lowell) or anyone else who wants to learn more. We are continuing with outreach and planning. Agenda includes: Follow up on action items from the last meeting, a report on meeting with Leena from MVP, a report on the Sanctuary Volunteer Training at CCU, clarify our overall objective, based on discussions in the last two meetings, and learning how to proceed with a new City Manager and a new Chief of Police coming in. Bring guests, all are welcome.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/192147404901201/

 

May Day 2018 – International Workers Day Resist Deportations!

 

Tuesday, May 1, 5-8pm, Boston Common, Charles St, Boston, Massachusetts 02108

Rally on the Boston Common, Parkman Bandstand at 5pm, followed by a 6:30pm march to Copley Square. Join us on International Workers Day, standing for immediate permanent legal residence for all undocumented migrants, and permanent residence for all DACA and TPS recipients!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/149039005781560/

 

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

 

If the firing happens before 2pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Nobody is above the law! Donald Trump is publicly considering firing special counsel Robert Mueller. This would be a constitutional crisis for our country. Our response in the minutes and hours following a power grab will dictate what happens next, which is why an immediate response is imperative.

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

 

Help With Sanctuary

 

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form).

More information and to sign up for training: marissa@solidaritylowell.com

State

UMass Lowell Congressional Candidate Debate

Sunday, April 29, 1pm, Durgin Hall, 54 Wilder St. Lowell

UMass Lowell and the university’s Center for Public Opinion will host debates for Democratic primary candidates running in the Massachusetts 3rd Congressional District to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Niki Tsongas. Two 90-minute debates will be held at noon and 2 p.m. on the university’s South Campus. Two debates are scheduled because of the large number of Democrats, more than a dozen, in that primary. (Currently, only one Republican candidate is running so there is no need for a Republican primary debate.)

More information: https://www.uml.edu/News/press-releases/2018/CongressionaldebatereleaseMarch2018.aspx

Mass Coalition Against Gun Violence State House Action Day

 

Monday, April 30, 11:00am-1:00pm, Massachusetts Statehouse, 24 Beacon Street, 3rd floor, Wolcott Statue, Boston

Join us to promote H.3610, the Extreme Risk Protection Order. Speakers include Chief Steve Wojnar, President of the MA Chiefs of Police Association; Rep. Marjorie Decker; John Rosenthal, Stop Handgun Violence; and Janet Goldenberg, MA Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence. Come together for the final push to enact this important Gun Violence Prevention legislation!

More information: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1iZPq2UzN5BbyDAVrx-ztUF_AusUv8aSg5tTEFbPc1bU/viewform?edit_requested=true

 

Support Climate Policy Solutions

 

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m  _______, from _______, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please support and pass the following science-based bills:  S.2302: An Act for a Clean Energy Future and H.2913: An Act relative to environmental justice and toxics reduction in the Commonwealth.  We need these bills because: S.2302 helps build our clean energy economy by increasing how much renewable energy our utilities must purchase every year (the Renewable Energy Portfolio standard), and helps break our over-reliance on fossil fuels and curb our emissions by banning taxpayer subsidies for new fossil fuel infrastructure. H.2913 promotes environmental justice and eliminate disparities by forcing government agencies to implement Article 97 of the MA constitution. Thank you!”

More information: https://marchforscienceboston.betterfutureproject.org/call_rep_4232018?utm_campaign=battlefortruth&utm_medium=email&utm_source=betterfutureproject

 

Oppose MA Budget Amendments that Limit Civil Liberties

 

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from ______, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please oppose these amendments and urge colleagues to do the same: Amendments 113 (Rep. Lombardo), 227 (Rep. Diehl), and 347 (Rep. Lyons), which would would create broader authority for police to detain immigrants or punish the 31 cities and towns that have adopted measures to limit police participation in immigration enforcement, and Amendment 508 (Rep. Jones), which would attempt to pass Governor Baker’s proposal to overturn the Lunn decision via the budget. Instead, the House should include provisions to bar police from asking people about immigration status; ensure that immigrants in custody know their legal rights; and end collaboration agreements with ICE. Thank you!”

More information: https://mailchi.mp/9fccebadbf98/minuteman-muster-apr-24-514587?e=d7418dc73a

 

Support the Funding Our Communities Deserve

 

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m _______ from _______. Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please support the following amendments:

  • Amendment 54 (Livingstone), which would provide funding for the Resolve to Stop the Violence Program,
  • Amendment 219 (Livingstone), which increases funding for community-based re-entry programs from $3 million to $5 million
  • Amendment 243 (Balser), which increases funding for the Massachusetts Legal Services Corporation (MLAC)
  • Amendment 801 (Khan), which increases the funding for Juvenile Court Clinics
  • Amendment 156 (Higgins), which would provide much-needed funding for public colleges and universities
  • Amendment 952 (Ultrino) / 977 (Coppinger), which would increase charter school tuition reimbursements for sending public school districts
  • Amendment 864 (Walsh, Chris), which increases the funding for the Department of Environmental Protection’s hazardous waste clean-up program
  • Amendment 269 (Connolly), which would increase housing voucher rent caps to current fair market rents
  • Amendment 640 (Ferrante), which increases funding for the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program
  • Amendment 743 (Peake), which would increase funding for Regional Transportation Agencies
  • Amendment 867 (Garlick), which would boost funding for Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Prevention services
  • Amendment 889 (Provost), which freezes the income tax at 5.1 percent.
  • Amendment 950 (Koczera), which would increase funding for adult education and English classes

Thank you!”

More information: https://www.progressivemass.com/fy2019_house_budget?utm_campaign=housebudget2018&utm_medium=email&utm_source=progressivemass

 

Stop Battery Cages

 

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

The King amendment to the 2018 Farm Bill (H.R. 4879) means Massachusetts could be forced to allow the sale of eggs from hens locked in cramped battery cages, despite an overwhelming public vote to prohibit the sale of these products. Battery cages are so small that the birds kept inside can barely move and eggs from battery cage facilities have higher rates of salmonella.

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from ______, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please reject the King Amendment to the Farm Bill. This amendment would overturn MA’s decisive public vote to prohibit the sale of battery cages, forcing MA to permit them. Please listen to MA voters and reject this amendment. Thank you.”

More information: https://secure.humanesociety.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=7451

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 4/19/18

Local

Solidarity Lowell April Meeting

Sunday, April 22, 5:30-7:00 PM, Christ Church United, UCC, 1 Bartlett St., Lowell (use Bartlett St entrance)

The monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell and interested guests. Our speakers this month are Harmony Wu from Progressive MA and Mike Berggren from Northeast Recovery Learning Community. Also on the agenda, an update from the Trust Act/Outreach subcommittee, a new phonebanking group, discussion of the Progressive Massachusetts Congressional survey, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/225957347964137/

Cambodian New Year & Parade 2018

Saturday, April 21, 8:30-11:00 AM, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell, 01854

Please join us for another year of celebrating traditional Khmer New Year with Buddhist blessings, performances, food and more. This event will be hosted at the Lowell Senior Center which will then proceed by a parade to continue the celebration hosted by Clemente Park Committee.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1991482131090562/

 

7th Annual Lowell Khmer New Year Celebration

Saturday, April 21, 12:00-5:00 PM, Clemente Park, 823 Middlesex St, Lowell, 01851

This is a huge celebration commemorating the Cambodian New Year, in the traditional harvest season. The celebration will include performances, food and other vendors, and informational booths. Bonus: Get your free bottle of fish sauce at 1:30 PM at the Volunteer Table!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2130752680491545/

2018 Lowell Earth Day Parade and Festival

Sunday, April 22, 11:30 AM-4:00 PM, Lowell National Historical Park, 246 Market St, Lowell, 01852 & UTEC, 35 Warren St., Lowell 01852

We invite organizations, individuals and families to the streets of downtown Lowell to celebrate the Greening of our city with a mile-long parade featuring The Party Band, local schools, puppets, costumes, and eco-conscious groups from the area. Parade start @12:30 p.m.: Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center (246 Market Street). Parade finish/Festival location: UTEC, 35 Warren St., Lowell, MA 01852. Immediately following the parade, we’ll be holding a fun sustainability festival for all participants and the general public.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/630980807253431/

 

Lowell School Committee Policy Subcommittee Meeting on Recess

Monday, April 23, 6:00 P.M., Lowell Public Schools Central Administration Building, 155 Merrimack Street, 5th floor, in the TV Studio

Do you support an equitable, district-wide recess policy in Lowell? Then we need you to join us! The School Committee voted to move this discussion to the Policy Subcommittee, and now they need to hear from you. We are asking for a minimum of 30 minutes of recess for K-8. Meeting agenda: Discuss and review the development of a district-wide recess policy.

More information, including the suggested policy guidelines: https://www.facebook.com/events/572324603136199/

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss – April

Friday, April 27th, 6:30-8:30pm, Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell, and UnChARTed, 103 Market Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to protest against the atrocities of the Trump administration. Please bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, after the demonstration, come to UnChARTed to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/234603980439420/

 

Postcards for Progress – Spring Edition

Saturday, April 28, 10am-12pm, Coffee and Cotton, Mill No. 5, 4th Floor, 250 Jackson Street, Lowell

We’ll be writing to our elected officials and directly to voters! Open to all who want to help with progressive causes. A list of suggested topics, progressive but non-partisan, will be provided, but people are of course welcome to bring their own ideas.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/234948983718026/

 

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

If the firing happens before 2pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Nobody is above the law! Donald Trump is publicly considering firing special counsel Robert Mueller. This would be a constitutional crisis for our country. Our response in the minutes and hours following a power grab will dictate what happens next, which is why an immediate response is imperative.

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

 

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form).

More information and to sign up for training: marissa@solidaritylowell.com

 

State

UMass Lowell Congressional Candidate Debate

Sunday, April 29, 1pm, Durgin Hall, 54 Wilder St. Lowell

UMass Lowell and the university’s Center for Public Opinion will host debates for Democratic primary candidates running in the Massachusetts 3rd Congressional District to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Niki Tsongas. Two 90-minute debates will be held at noon and 2 p.m. on the university’s South Campus. Two debates are scheduled because of the large number of Democrats, more than a dozen, in that primary. Currently, only one Republican candidate is running.

More information: https://www.uml.edu/News/press-releases/2018/CongressionaldebatereleaseMarch2018.aspx

 

Stand up for Massachusetts Values in the Budget

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m _______ from _________, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please make sure our state budget protects civil rights and civil liberties. Please co-sponsor Amendment #1361, “Valuing Children Equally,” which would Lift the Cap on Kids, which cruelly denies welfare support to children conceived while the family receives assistance. Please oppose the expansion of state wiretap powers to “listen in” on a wider range of personal communication (Amendments #515 & #1174), as well as anti-boycott measure dressed up as a non-discrimination amendment (Amendment #979). Finally, please SUPPORT immigrant residents of Massachusetts. I am troubled by proposed budget amendments designed to deprive immigrants of opportunity in the Commonwealth and make them more vulnerable to deportation.  Please reject them all. Instead our state government should do everything it can to reduce the pervasive fear that has arisen in immigrant communities in the face of the Trump administration’s constant attacks. Thank you!”

More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/ma-rep-stand-up-for-ma-values?ms_aff=MA&initms_aff=MA&ms=180417_budget+amendment_MA&initms=180417_budget+amendment_MA&ms_chan=eml&initms_chan=eml

 

Protect Immigrant Families

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ________ from _________, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please advance key protections for immigrant families during budget negotiations over the next few months, and oppose any amendments that would deprive immigrants of opportunity or deepen the involvement of state and local agencies in immigration enforcement. Please ensuring that police and other law enforcement do not ask people about their immigration status. Make sure that police inform people of their right to seek legal help before they are interviewed by immigration agents. And end collaboration agreements between county sheriffs and ICE, which undermine community trust in local police. Thank you!”

More information: https://mailchi.mp/5386d72129ae/take-action-to-protect-immigrant-families-today?e=13d08e9dc9

 

Stand for All Students

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m _______ from ________, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please co-sponsor the following amendments to fund our public schools and colleges: Amendment #246 would fix the Foundation Budget for K-12 public schools, Amendment #156 provide much-needed funding for public colleges and universities, Amendment #1343 would mandate at least 20 minutes of recess for elementary school students, and Amendment #924 would provide basic consumer protections to student loan borrowers. Thank you!”

More information: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/fundourschoolsbudgetweek2018?delivery_id=27486969

Support Transportation to Treatment for those in Recovery

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m _______ from ________, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please support Budget Line #639. This budget line will grant Bridgewell Inc. extra funding for a pilot program providing transportation for addicts seeking recovery options in the Merrimack Valley. It will provide rides for people in Greater Lawrence, Lowell, and Haverhill, filling a critical gap in the treatment and recovery process. Thank you!”

Please record their answer and email mvalleypr@gmail.com with their response.

 

Federal

Stand with People At Risk of Religious Discrimination

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from ________, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. I’m calling about the US Dept. of Health and Human Services division that condones discrimination against our own citizens. Denying medical treatment is unconscionable and risks our neighbors’ lives. Providers who discriminate should not receive government money. Please co-sponsor H.R. 5123, a new bill that abolishes this department. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr5123

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 4/11/18

Local

Lowell Pipeline Resistance Organizing Meeting

Thursday, April 12, 5:45-7:45pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

To those who are ready to STOP THIS PIPELINE: Join us for our next organizing meeting! We’re continuing to build our power and make sure Colonial Gas (National Grid) doesn’t get what they want: to build a brand new, $30 million gas pipeline through our community. Not in anybody’s back yard! Colonial Gas: You shall not pass. We’ll be using the second half of the meeting for working groups to get some work done!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1643128442442683/

 

LRTA Info Session: Proposed Fare Increases

Thursday, April 12, 12-2pm, Pollard Memorial Library, 401 Merrimack Street, Lowell

The LRTA will be holding formal Public Informational Meetings and a Public Hearing on Proposed Fare Increases. Please join us to learn more about the proposed fare increases. For a complete list, please see their public notice: http://lrta.com/public-information/2018/03/public-notice/

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2065425453717111

New Lowell High School Update Public Meeting

Thursday, April 12, 5:30-8pm, Lowell High School Cafeteria, 50 Father Morrissette Blvd, Lowell

Please join us for an information update session on the new Lowell High project and how it impacts you. The city’s project manager, Skanska USA/Perkins Eastman, will present on the final options for the Downtown location. The meeting will focus on providing updated information on the next steps the project and allowing community members to ask questions, voice concerns and ideas. Translation services and refreshments will be provided.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/181718125956292/

Postcards for Progress – April Edition

Saturday, April 14, 10am-12pm, Coffee and Cotton, Mill No. 5, 4th Floor, 250 Jackson Street, Lowell

We’ll be writing to our elected officials and directly to voters! Open to all who want to help with progressive causes. A list of suggested topics, progressive but non-partisan, will be provided, but people are of course welcome to bring their own ideas.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1448457205258173/

Solidarity Lowell – April Meeting

Sunday, April 22, 5:30-7:00 PM, Christ Church United, UCC, 1 Bartlett St., Lowell (use Bartlett St entrance)

The monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell and interested guests. Our speakers this month are Harmony Wu from Progressive MA and Mike Berggren from Northeast Recovery Learning Community. Also on the agenda, an update from the Trust Act/Outreach subcommittee, a new phonebanking group, further training based on what we learned from The Incorruptibles, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/225957347964137/

 

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

If the firing happens before 2pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Nobody is above the law! Donald Trump is publicly considering firing special counsel Robert Mueller. This would be a constitutional crisis for our country. Our response in the minutes and hours following a power grab will dictate what happens next, which is why an immediate response is imperative.

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

 

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form).

More information and to sign up for training: marissa@solidaritylowell.com

 

SAVE THE DATE! Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss – April

Friday, April 27th, 6:30-8:30pm, Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell, and UnChARTed, 103 Market Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to protest against the atrocities of the Trump administration. Please bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, after the demonstration, come to UnChARTed to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/234603980439420/

 

State

2018 March for Science Boston: Science Strikes Back!

Saturday, April 14th, 1-3pm, Christopher Columbus Park, Boston

On Saturday, April 14th 2018 at Christopher Columbus Park, we will continue to use the momentum of last year’s march to once again lift up the themes and ideals of science, but we won’t stop there. In 2018, we’ll also take the offensive and rally behind specific climate legislation that will advance certain science- and evidence-based policy in the Massachusetts state legislature, with an eye to passage this year. In 2018 in Massachusetts, science is striking back!

More information: https://marchforscienceboston.betterfutureproject.org/?utm_campaign=3_30_18_m4s_outreach2&utm_medium=email&utm_source=betterfutureproject

 

Tax Day: Repeal the Trump Tax, Pass the People’s Budget

Saturday, April 14th, 12-2:30pm, Cambridge Common, Garden St and Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138

It’s time to stand up for our values and priorities! President Trump’s tax bill is ensuring billions of dollars in profits to large corporations– and peanuts to working people. Meanwhile, the President and Congress have agreed on unparalleled increases in Pentagon spending that will lead to more wars, more suffering, and take even more money from programs that benefit all of us. Cuts in essential programs from climate protection to Medicaid, housing, Social Security, and Medicare are on the drawing board. We must turn around Washington’s budget insanity.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/570148549988772/

 

Family Friendly Proud Boys Counterprotest

Monday, April 16th, 11am-3pm (time may change), along Monument Street near Old Manse, Concord, MA

Join the friendly counterprotest of the Proud Boys group, who will be at Patriot’s Day events with a “rally for free speech.” The counterprotest will just be a presence to show that we are not condoning their hate speech on any day, and especially on such a symbolic day, no matter how they disguise themselves. Bring flags to show that patriotism is a full-spectrum ideal!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1606296819492049/?active_tab=discussion

Prevent Gun Violence in Massachusetts

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please allow the Extreme Risk Protective Orders bill (H. 3610) out of committee and bring it to the floor for a vote. It would directly address the two primary forms of lethal gun violence in Massachusetts, suicide and homicide, and allow for meaningful intervention before a dangerous individual can become a mass shooter. Thank you!”

More information: https://everytownresearch.org/red-flag-laws-helping-prevent-mass-shooting/

 

Tell Baker to Sign the Criminal Justice Reform Bill

Governor Charles Duane Baker: 617.725.4005

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ________ from ________, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. I urge you to sign the criminal justice reform bill (S.2371) today. The House and Senate have both passed this vital legislation with overwhelming, bipartisan majorities. Follow their example and stand up for justice by signing the bill into law – and not weaken it with amendments. This bill marks substantial progress in moving from a system of retribution towards a system of rehabilitation and restorative justice. It will end unjust mandatory minimum sentencing for certain low-level drug offenses, keep young kids out of the criminal legal system, and require system-wide data collection for more transparency and accountability. Thank you!”

More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/ma-criminal-justice-reform?ms_aff=MA&initms_aff=MA&ms=180405_Criminal+Justice+Reform_MA&initms=180405_Criminal+Justice+Reform_MA&ms_chan=eml&initms_chan=eml

 

Support Automatic Voter Registration

Please contact your state representative (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from _______, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please support H. 4320, An Act Automatically Registering Eligible Voters and Enhancing Safeguards Against Fraud. Taking this step to automatically register voters is the first step to improving voter turnout and civic engagement. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H4320?link_id=27&can_id=317c2fbadd5b58da040def3de1b93fd2&source=email-indivisible-acton-weekly-newsletter-4102018&email_referrer=email_332367&email_subject=indivisible-acton-weekly-newsletter-4102018

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 4/5/18

Local

TONIGHT! Lowell Pipeline Resistance Organizing Meeting

Thursday, April 5, 2018, 5:45-7:45pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

To those who are ready to STOP THIS PIPELINE: Join us for our next organizing meeting! We’re continuing to build our power and make moves to make sure Colonial Gas (National Grid) doesn’t get what they want: to build a brand new, $30 million gas pipeline through our community. Not in anybody’s back yard! Colonial Gas: You shall not pass.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/213720732730768/

Town Hall for Our Lives

Saturday, April 7th, 11am-1pm, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell, 657 Middlesex Street, Lowell

On Saturday, students across the country will meet with their representatives to ask what they are doing to support the gun reform movement. During the Town Hall, students will meet with representatives from the 3rd and 6th districts to discuss gun reform legislation targeting both schools and communities. We encourage anyone who wishes to listen to the students and support their work to attend, and to bring along any students who may be interested in becoming part of the student-based gun reform movement.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/181601739229886/

 

Help Get the Word Out About the Election Lawsuit Public Meeting

Lowell Alliance is seeking volunteers to promote April 9th’s Election Lawsuit Public Meeting in Centralville (5:30pm at the PCEA Neema Church). We’re requesting volunteers to help us by driving/walking the neighborhoods around the church to post fliers in businesses, restaurants, and laundromats so that residents see the fliers.

To volunteer, please send a message through the Lowell Alliance Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lowellalliance/

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/446051889159666/

 

New Lowell High School Update Public Meeting

Thursday, April 12, 5:30-8pm, Lowell High School Cafeteria, 50 Father Morrissette Blvd, Lowell

Please join us for an information update session on the new Lowell High project and how it impacts you. The city’s project manager, Skanska USA/Perkins Eastman, will present on the final options for the Downtown location. The meeting will focus on providing updated information on the next steps the project and allowing community members to ask questions, voice concerns and ideas. Translation services and refreshments will be provided.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/181718125956292/

 

Postcards for Progress – April Edition

Saturday, April 14, 10am-12pm, Coffee and Cotton, Mill No. 5, 4th Floor, 250 Jackson Street, Lowell

We’ll be writing to our elected officials and directly to voters! Open to all who want to help with progressive causes. A list of suggested topics, progressive but non-partisan, will be provided, but people are of course welcome to bring their own ideas.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1448457205258173/

 

Want to Help with Sanctuary?

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided and there is a session this coming Monday, the 9th. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form).

More information and to sign up for training: marissa@solidaritylowell.com

 

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

If the firing happens before 2pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Nobody is above the law! Donald Trump is publicly considering firing special counsel Robert Mueller. This would be a constitutional crisis for our country. Our response in the minutes and hours following a power grab will dictate what happens next, which is why an immediate response is imperative.

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

SAVE THE DATE! Solidarity Lowell April Meeting

Sunday, April 22, 5:30-7:00 PM, Christ Church United, UCC, 1 Bartlett St., Lowell (use Bartlett St entrance)

The monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell and interested guests. Our speakers this month are Harmony Wu from Progressive MA and Mike Berggren from Northeast Recovery Learning Community. Also on the agena, an update from the Trust Act/Outreach subcommittee, a new phonebanking group, further training based on what we learned from The Incorruptibles, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/225957347964137/

 

 

SAVE THE DATE! Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss – April

Friday, April 27th, 6:30-8:30pm, Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell, and UnChARTed, 103 Market Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to protest against the atrocities of the Trump administration. Please bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, after the demonstration, come to UnChARTed to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/234603980439420/
 

State

2018 March for Science Boston: Science Strikes Back!

Saturday, April 14th, 1-3pm, Christopher Columbus Park, Boston

On Saturday, April 14th 2018 at Christopher Columbus Park, we will continue to use the momentum of last year’s march to once again lift up the themes and ideals of science, but we won’t stop there. In 2018, we’ll also take the offensive and rally behind specific climate legislation that will advance certain science- and evidence-based policy in the Massachusetts state legislature, with an eye to passage this year. In 2018 in Massachusetts, science is striking back!

More information: https://marchforscienceboston.betterfutureproject.org/?utm_campaign=3_30_18_m4s_outreach2&utm_medium=email&utm_source=betterfutureproject

Demand Passage of Clean Energy Legislation

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ from _______, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. I’d like to urge you to speak to leadership about making the following clean energy policies happen:
1. Increasing the renewable portfolio standard by 3%
2. Reforming the Department of Public Utilities (h.3400)
3. Implementing solar policies to benefit low-income communities (h.3396)
4. Codifying Environmental Justice regulations from the Patrick administration
5. Setting new emission standards for 2030 and 2040 under the GWSA
These are found in S.2302, Senator Pacheco’s new climate bill and need to be passed. Thank you!”

More information: http://mapowerforward.com/files/powerforward/Legislation20172018/Fact%20Sheet%20-%20S2302%20-%20An%20Act%20to%20Promote%20a%20Clean%20Energy%20Future%20-%20%203-2-18.pdf

 

Log your call here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdSo8NRrqvqcQ90VDcPFCYf-29bVs4bY5W7pnMBUXS7RAupEw/viewform

Federal

Stand with LGBTQ Youth

Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ from _____, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please co-sponsor the Student Non-Discrimination Act. It prohibits discrimination against students in grades K-12 because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Since no federal law protects LBGTQ youth and they are at greater risk of suicide, this legislation would help make a positive difference in our schools. Thank you!”

More information: http://www.hrc.org/blog/student-non-discrimination-act-reintroduced-in-congress?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss-feed

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team