Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Emergency Housing Coalition Meeting

Sunday, June 2, 2pm
WISH Hub, UMass Lowell, 150 Wilder St

Join us in this coalition effort from LLAMA, Merrimack Valley Project, Sacred Sun Project, and Solidarity Lowell.

Continuing the work of advocating for humane treatment of our unhoused neighbors and for affordable housing. If you have questions about the agenda or past meetings, please contact Felix Brown at felixfab62 @ gmail.com.

Mill City Messaging

Thursday, June 13, 6-8pm
Location: Lala Books, 189 Market St

Join us at our next postcarding event, hosted by our friends at Lala Books. Come join fellow activists, as we write postcards in support of progressive causes. Bring your own refreshments, favorite pen, and good conversation!

Note: If you are able, a suggested donation of $15 to go towards supplies is appreciated, but not mandatory.

For questions or to RSVP, please email amy@solidaritylowell.com so we can be sure to have enough materials on hand.

Next Solidarity Lowell Meeting

Sunday June 23 5:30-7pm
Format: Hybrid
Topic/speaker: TBD

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, May 28 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online.
Meetings are held biweekly during the summer Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. Occasionally meetings are canceled due to holiday weekends. Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows: Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Municipal Cable Channel 6).

To speak, you must register by 4pm the day of the meeting. Those wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item must register to speak in advance of the meeting by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that you may be issued a Zoom link to the meeting if you wish to speak remotely. Email Address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If you have no access to email you may contact the City Clerk at 978-674-4161.

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05282024-3115?html=true

5. CITY COUNCIL – MOTIONS
Nothing of interest to us.

6. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY MANAGER

6.1.Motion Responses
A) Motion Response – Syringe Exchange
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/28045?fileID=56833

I) Motion Response – Commercial To Residential Conversion
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/28045?fileID=56841

How to contact your City Councilors
https://www.lowellma.gov/FormCenter/Contact-the-City-Council-5/City-Council-Contact-Form-45

Lowell Alliance’s Deep Canvassing Training

Thursday, May 30, evening

Lowell Alliance will be organizing canvassing around the topic of affordable housing. If you are committed to organizing/canvassing with them on affordable housing, please contact Nancy Coan (ncoan @ ywcaoflowell.org) or Liz Anusauskas (eanusauskas @ ywcaoflowell.org) to find out more and see if you might be a candidate for training. Space is limited; serious, committed candidates only please.

Hunger And Homeless Commission Monthly Meeting

Wednesday, June 5, 12-1:30pm
Virtual
Mark your calendar and watch for link

Meetings are open to the public.

Support for our unhoused neighbors

Ongoing opportunities to help various organizations that are assisting Lowell’s unhoused population may be found on our website at: https://solidaritylowell.com/resources/

Any new opportunities will be posted there as well.

Ongoing Opportunities From Activist Groups in Our Area

Swing Blue Alliance
https://swingbluealliance.org/calendar/

Turn Purple 2 Blue
https://turnpurple2blue.org/

Touchbase Tuesdays (weekly)
Tuesday, May 28, 1-2pm
Sponsor: Indivisible Acton Area
Virtual
RSVP: https://www.mobilize.us/activist-afternoons/event/586133/

Join Indivisible Acton Area weekly for conversation about local, state, and national current events. Let’s get together to update/review/share/plan news and actions people can take to win in 2024. Some of the brainstorming ideas discussed here turn into take action activities for the Indivisible Acton Area.

Postcards for Democracy (weekly)
Thursday, May 30, 9-11am
Kimball Farm Country Store, 400 Littleton Road, Westford (upstairs)
Sponsor: Indivisible Westford
$15 per packet
https://turnpurple2blue.org/2024/02/25/postcards-for-democracy/

Join fellow activists every Thursday to write postcards over coffee and conversations.
Postcard campaigns for races for Senate & House, as well as some simple Get Out the Vote projects for Ohio and Arizona Native Americans.

Pen Power at KJ’s Caffe (weekly)
Saturday, June 1, 9:30-11am
KJs Caffe next to Trader Joe’s, Acton
$15 per packet of 25 postcards
RSVP: Linda@IndivisibleActon.org
https://turnpurple2blue.org/2024/03/25/pen-power-at-kjs-caffe/

Join fellow activists every Saturday to write postcards over coffee and conversations. Postcard campaigns for races for Senate & House, as well as some simple Get Out the Vote projects for Ohio and Arizona Native Americans.
Text for Democracy (weekly)
Monday, June 3, 12:30-1:30pm
Sponsor: Swing Blue Alliance
https://www.mobilize.us/indivisible-ma/event/619754/

Working in conjunction with Field Team 6, we will text unregistered likely Democrats in key swing states to help them register to vote. (If you’re unfamiliar with FT6, they have an amazing success rate for registering voters.) We will use a method developed by FT6 that is free and flexible. It’s called BYOP, which stands for Bring Your Own Phone, even though you will use your computer and not your phone. You will have to install some basic software, but it’s not hard, and once you have installed the prerequisites, it’s as easy as hitting one button.

In addition, you will be able to send texts whenever it’s convenient for you, as long as it’s between 9AM and 9 PM in the location you are texting.

Other Events

People’s Action Deep Canvassing training

Introduction to Deep Canvassing: The Proven Method to Change Hearts and Minds
Tuesday, May 28, 6pm
Register: https://www.mobilize.us/mobilize/event/616697/

State Level Actions

Pass the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act

This week, we learned that the Location Shield Act provisions have been incorporated into an omnibus package called the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act (see https://www.aclum.org/en/press-releases/aclu-applauds-new-landmark-data-privacy-legislation for more information), which was passed favorably out of committee. Among other measures, the package would stop the sale of cellphone location data (which endangers people seeking abortion) as well as the use of sensitive, personal data for targeted advertising (such as that used by crisis pregnancy centers). Contact your legislators to pass the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act this session! You can do so at https://mobilize.aclum.org/a/pass-data-privacy-regulations
h/t Indivisible Mass Coalition

To Contact the Governor

Governor’s Office of Constituent Services (617) 725-4005
Call between 9am and 5pm and leave a message.

Or email the governor, using this form: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/email-the-governors-office#email-the-governor-using-this-form-

Our State Legislators’ Info

Activism tip: put your legislators in your phone. You’ll be able to easily find them to contact as needed.

Speaker Ronald Mariano Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2500 | Rm 356
Senate President Karen Spilka Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov | 617-722-1500 | Rm 332
Rep. Rodney Elliott Rodney.Elliott@ma.house.gov | 617-722-2000 x7313 | Rm B1
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2060 | Rm 33
Local office: 25 Central Street, ground floor, Lowell
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2637 | Rm 544
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2380 | Rm 238
Senator Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov | 617-722-1630 | Rm 109-E
Senator Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov | 617-722-1572 | Rm 109-D
Senator Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov | 617-722-1120 | Rm 511-C
Senator Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov | 617-722-1612 | Rm 511A
(… or find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

Please join Solidarity Lowell in standing with our Cambodian neighbors

Many Cambodian Americans have been advocating for legislation to promote democracy and ensure human rights in Cambodia. The bills, H.R.4659 (co-sponsored by Rep. Lori Trahan) and S.2331 (sponsored by Senator Markey) , Cambodia Democracy, and Human Rights Act of 2023, “A bill to promote free and fair elections, democracy, political freedoms, and human rights in Cambodia, and for other purposes.” have been stalled in Congress.  The success of the bills will signal to the dictatorial Hun family that authoritarian control, brutal suppression of his people, and the abuse of human rights in the Kingdom of Cambodia will not be ignored by the United States.

Sign this petition urging Congress to pass the bills:
https://civicshout.com/p/urge-congress-to-pass-the-cambodia-democracy-act

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Activism tip: put your legislators in your phone. You’ll be able to easily find them to contact as needed. Shy? Call after 5 and leave a message. They work for you and you have a right to tell them what you think!

Senator Elizabeth Warren
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion
309 Hart Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-4543
2400 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury Street | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-3170

Senator Edward Markey
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-2742
975 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury St | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-8519

Representative Lori Trahan
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm
2439 Rayburn HOB | Washington, DC 20515 | 202-225-3411
126 John Street | Lowell, MA 01852 | 978-459-0101

Representative Seth Moulton
https://moulton.house.gov/contact
202-225-8020 | 978-531-1669

Action of the Week

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, April 9 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

Meetings are usually held weekly Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. Occasionally meetings are canceled due to holiday weekends. Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows: Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Municipal Cable Channel 6).

To speak, you must register by 4pm the day of the meeting. Those wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item must register to speak in advance of the meeting by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that you may be issued a Zoom link to the meeting if you wish to speak remotely. Email Address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If you have no access to email you may contact the City Clerk at 978-674-4161.

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04092024-3058?html=true

5. CITY COUNCIL – MOTIONS

5.2. C. Robinson – Req. City Mgr. Have The Proper Department Provide An Update On Status Of Syringe Exchange Programs In The Community And What Regulatory Options Exist On The Local Level.

5.10 C. Jenness – Req. City Mgr. Have Proper Department Provide Presentation To The Council On Current Status Of ARPA Monies That Have Been Obligated, And The Plan For The Remainder Of Those Funds To Be Obligated By End Of Year.

5.14.C. Scott – Req. City Mgr. Provide A Report Detailing The Status Of Mitigation Efforts Listed In The 2015 And 2020 Municipal Vulnerability Reports And The Status Of The Planning For The 2025 Report.

6. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY MANAGER

6.1. Motion Responses

B) Motion Response – State and Federal Partners Grant Opportunities
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27484?fileID=55883

C) Motion Response – (Improving) LTLC Services
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27484?fileID=55884

D) Motion Response – Winter Protocol Beds
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27484?fileID=55885

8. ORDINANCES FROM THE CITY MANAGER

8.1. Ordinance – New Ch. 51 – Code For Elected And Appointed Officials
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27491?fileID=55888
An Ordinance Amending “Code of Ordinances, City of Lowell, Massachusetts,” by creating a new Chapter 51, entitled “Code of Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials.”

11. PETITIONS

11.3. Misc. – Norma Von Fricken Request Permission To Address Council Regarding [Unsanitary] Homeless Conditions.
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27471?fileID=55732

How to contact your City Councilor
https://www.lowellma.gov/FormCenter/Contact-the-City-Council-5/City-Council-Contact-Form-45

It’s easy via the Webform above. You can write to as many of the councilors as you’d like, all at once. You can include the City Manager. You can have a copy of what you send returned to you. And you can communicate anonymously if you wish.

Remember. They work for us. You have a right to bring your concerns about the City to them.

Cambodian Flag Raising Ceremony

Friday, April 12, 10am

Join CMAA, Lowell City Hall, Lowell Community Charter Public School, and Lowell Public Schools in recognition of the Cambodian community in Greater Lowell.

Live broadcast on CMAA Facebook.

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK has recommenced their spring cleanups.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe
Sign up to volunteer, check out their schedule and more.

Next events
Great Connector Cleanup, Exit 3 to Gorham St
Saturday, April 13, 9am-12pm
Meet at Target

Lowell Parking Garage Art – Phase 2 – Call for Artists

Deadline: April 26

The City of Lowell, through the Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (CASE), invites artists to submit two-dimensional works of art to be considered for showing in City-owned parking garages in phase two of our Parking Garage Art Exhibit. You may submit existing works or works newly created for this project. Works will be reproduced by the City of Lowell on acrylic panels suitable for all weather conditions and will be affixed to the wall of City-owned parking garages. For more information, please contact Peter Crewe: pcrewe@lowellma.gov.

Submit your application online to the Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events using the following link: https://form.jotform.com/240846135410146.

Project Timeline
Call for Artists OPEN: Friday, March 29
Info session via Zoom (optional): Tuesday, April 16
Call for Artists CLOSE: Friday, April 26, 1:59pm
Artists Notified by: Monday, May 6
Work Due to the City: Friday, May 10
Display Period: Up to one year (June 2024 – June 2025)

The information session will be held via Zoom on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 from 5:30pm-6:30pm. It is optional and will serve as a space where artists can ask questions.

More details: https://www.likelowell.com/parking-garage-art-2024

Hunger And Homelessness Commission Has An Opening

If you are a resident of Lowell or a non-resident affiliated with a Lowell organization or institution and believe in and support the special interests of the hungry and homeless and are willing to work on behalf of the City of Lowell on this issue, this may be for you.

The Commission meets once a month, usually on the first Wednesday, for 60-90 minutes. Meetings are open to the public.

For more information on the Commission opening: https://g.co/kgs/dBzTu77

Support for our unhoused neighbors

Ongoing opportunities to help various organizations that are assisting Lowell’s unhoused population may be found on our website at:https://solidaritylowell.com/resources/

Any NEW opportunities will be posted here as well.

Action of the Week

Action of the Week

~ If you do nothing else this week, this is the action that can make a difference. ~

Special Joint Committee on Initiative Petitions/Legislative Transparency on the Agenda

Tuesday, March 26, 10am
State House Rm A2
https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/4907

The Committee is holding a hearing on the ballot question authorizing the Auditor to audit the Legislature. ( Bill H4251, An Act expressly authorizing the Auditor to audit the Legislature.)

It’s too late to register to give oral testimony but written testimony can be submitted to the Committee via email at SpecialJointCommitteeonInitiativePetitions @ malegislature.gov. The deadline to submit written testimony is Saturday, March 30 at 5:00 PM.

You may contact Committee staff with any questions at Mary.Cecconi @ mahouse.gov or Elizabeth.Berman @ masenate.gov. There are no Lowell legislators on the Committee, but Senator Cindy Friedman, of Billerica, is the Senate co-chair of the committee. Billerica SL members can reach her at CindyFriedman @ masenate.gov.

Standing up for this ballot initiative is one way of fighting for transparency in the legislature. If this ballot initiative is successful, the Massachusetts legislature’s poor NATIONWIDE rating on transparency CAN be changed.
h/t Indivisible Acton

The hearing comes just after Sunshine Week highlighted the lack of transparency in our Legislature. In this WGBH video, https://www.wgbh.org/news/politics/2024-03-15/2023-was-a-banner-year-for-government-transparency-on-beacon-hill-and-not-in-a-good-way Erin Leahy, Executive Director of Act on Mass, explained why Massachusetts has “a reputation for being one of the least transparent legislatures in the country” and called 2023 a ‘banner year’ for that.

And in this article, Sunshine Week meets shade on Beacon Hill, https://www.recorder.com/Sunshine-Week-meets-shade-on-Beacon-Hill-54403262 Jonathan Cohn, Policy Director at Progressive Mass, documents the dramatic drop in the number of roll call votes this session compared to past years. The article also mentions the Sunlight Act that MA Indivisibles lobbied for earlier this year.

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Emergency Housing Coalition Meeting

Sunday April 7, 6pm
UML Center For Women And Work, 150 Wilder Street, Lowell

Join us in this coalition effort from LLAMA, Merrimack Valley Project, Sacred Sun Project, and Solidarity Lowell.

Continuing the work of advocating for humane treatment of our unhoused neighbors and for affordable housing. If you have questions about the agenda or the past meeting, please contact Felix Brown at felixfab62 @ gmail.com

Next Solidarity Lowell Meeting

Sunday April 28, 5:30-7pm 
Status: Hybrid OR Zoom to be determined closer to date
Topic/speaker: Coordinating Committee Elections and TBD

Unpacking Whiteness

Individuals committed to exploring their own racial biases are invited to participate in an Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group. The purpose of the group is to engage in supportive, structured dialogues with others to explore whiteness in contemporary society, especially to better understand the legacy and impact of white supremacy, white privilege, explicit and implicit bias, systemic racism, and microaggressions. There will be five sessions total.

Sign up at http://bit.ly/uw-signup

For more information, please contact Marissa Dupont: marissa@solidaritylowell.com

Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker

Lilian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, finally moved into an apartment! She can use assistance with furnishing the place.

Donations and gift cards are appreciated. These can be given to Marissa Dupont, who will pass them along to Lillian. CashApp: $gollygee17   Venmo: @owlnerd

For checks, cash donations, or gift cards, email marissa@solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off.

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, March 26 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

Meetings are usually held weekly Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. Occasionally meetings are canceled due to holiday weekends. Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows: Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Municipal Cable Channel 6).

To speak, you must register by 4pm the day of the meeting. Those wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item must register to speak in advance of the meeting by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that you may be issued a Zoom link to the meeting if you wish to speak remotely. Email Address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If you have no access to email you may contact the City Clerk at 978-674-4161.

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03262024-3037?html=true

2.2. Recognitions:

A. 8th Annual Sustainable Lowell Awards:
Lowell Litter Krewe (Brad Buitenhuys)
UMass Lowell’s Rist Institute for Sustainability and Energy (Ruairi O’Mahony)

B. Youth Climate Change Action Award:
Plastic Waste (Jisella Sanquiche)
Carbon Footprint (Penina Mukundi)
Compost (Tyvohn Matias Mbugua)
Urban Forestry (Disha Patel)

6. CITY COUNCIL – MOTIONS

6.4.C. Robinson – Req. City Mgr. Provide Update On Plan To Clean Embankment On The VFW Next To The Aiken Bridge.

9. ORDINANCES FROM THE CITY MANAGER

9.1.Ordinance – Amend Fee Schedule – Residential Parking Signs
Documents: https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27315?fileID=55462

9.2. Ordinance – Amend Parking Rates FY24
Documents: https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27316?fileID=55466

10. REPORTS (SUB/COMMITTEE, IF ANY)

10.1. Rules And Election Law SC March 19, 2024.

10.2. Ad-Hoc Subcommittee – Restoration Of Superior Court March 20, 2024.

10.3. Economic/Downtown Development SC March 26, 2024.

How to contact your City Councilor
https://www.lowellma.gov/FormCenter/Contact-the-City-Council-5/City-Council-Contact-Form-45

It’s easy via the Webform above. You can write to as many of the councilors as you’d like, all at once. You can include the City Manager. You can have a copy of what you send returned to you. And you can communicate anonymously if you wish.

Remember. They work for us. You have a right to bring your concerns about the City to them.

Inhabitants: An Indigenous Perspective

Tuesday, March 26, 6:30-8pm
Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center

Follow the story of Native American Tribes as they restore their traditional land management practices. This 76-minute film is presented by the Lowell Parks and Conservation Trust in partnership with the Lowell Film Collaborative as part of their 2024 Eco-Film Series, which showcases educational eco-themed films on the last Tuesday of every month from January through June.

More information on the series:  https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=D921C2A3-B546-EB95-B086E192975F99F7

Hunger And Homelessness Commission Has An Opening

If you are a resident of Lowell or a non-resident affiliated with a Lowell organization or institution and believe in and support the special interests of the hungry and homeless and are willing to work on behalf of the City of Lowell on this issue, this may be for you.

The Commission meets once a month, usually on the first Wednesday, for 60-90 minutes. Meetings are open to the public.

For more information on the Commission opening: https://g.co/kgs/dBzTu77

Support for Our Unhoused Siblings

Life Connection Center could use help with their Night Owl program, 7pm to 12am.

They also need donations, especially cold weather supplies.

Useful items include:

• Luggage & duffle bags for containing belongings for easy transport
• Heaters (camping appropriate)
• Mylar sleeping bags
• Bottled water
• Ponchos
• Jackets and coats
• Gloves and mittens
• Umbrellas
• Gently Used or New Towels for Shower Service
• Undergarments
• Socks
• Toilet paper
• toiletries
• Outreach Snacks

That first item is important. We anticipate sweeps will continue. Folks therefore need a way to keep their belongings together and easy to transport on short notice.

Items may be dropped off Monday through Friday 8am-6pm and Sunday through Thursday 7pm-10pm at 192 Appleton Street. (978) 997-0588

You may also contribute through their Amazon wish list at
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/ARW4F37SG12T?ref_=wl_share

Opportunities to help at Lowell Transitional Living Center

Amazon wishlist
http://ltlc.org/wish-list/?fbclid=IwAR3GcxtnQGmbGh0atgBHF-iMJOk4bK2RERqEwA6IT4QKWhrBxrZILg8qqKs

The LTLC is always in need of volunteers. This is another venue where Solidarity Lowell members can show their support for our unhoused neighbors. 978-458-9888

Eliot Church Day Center

273 Summer St
Provides breakfast and lunch, and day space. St. Paul’s Kitchen serves dinner.

For more information on how you might help: https://eliotlowell.org/daycenter/

Other Events

Touchbase Tuesdays

Tuesday, March 26, 1-2pm
Tuesday, April 2, 1-2pm
Virtual – RSVP: https://www.mobilize.us/activist-afternoons/event/586133/ 

Join Indivisible Acton Area weekly for conversation about local, state, and national current events. Let’s get together to update/review/share/plan news and actions people can take to win in 2024. Some of the brainstorming ideas discussed here turn into take action activities for the Indivisible Acton Area.

Joint Committee on Ways and Means FY25 Budget Public Hearing

Tuesday, March 26, 11am
Gardner Auditorium
RSVP here to sign up to attend or submit written testimony:
Watch the hearing at https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/4897

This hearing will include other budget-related items, including funding higher education, and any bills that require funding that have passed out of committee, which includes Access to Counsel.

Access to Counsel testimony
Fact sheet: https://www.massrtc.org/uploads/2/7/0/4/27042339/access_to_counsel_bills_fact_sheet_2-15-24.pdf

We are at a critical moment. With both a line-item for Access to Counsel in Governor Healey’s FY25 budget and the full Access to Counsel bill H. 4360 (new number) in the House Ways and Means Committee, it is the time to push hard for the line-item to be passed in tandem with the full bill.

Please include in your testimony the following paragraph:
We respectfully urge the Joint Committee on Ways and Means to include in both the House and the Senate FY25 budgets $3.5 Million (Line-item 0321-1800) to fund an Access to Counsel program, alongside the full Access to Counsel bill language contained in S.864/H.4360, which provides the framework for a statewide program. Without representation, the majority of tenants face eviction alone. Without legal representation, many tenants risk becoming homeless. The time is now to start a statewide Access to Counsel program.

Submit Written Testimony: By Wednesday, March 27 at 5 pm, by email to Emerson.Gagnon @ masenate.gov and Kerry.Rugenstein @ mahouse.gov. Address your testimony to Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues and House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz. Below is a sample letter you can make your own and mail or email to Chair Rodrigues and Chair Michlewitz.

Sample email
The Honorable Michael J. Rodrigues
Chair, Senate Committee on Ways and Means
State House Room 212, Boston, MA 02108

The Honorable Aaron M. Michlewitz
Chair, House Committee on Ways and Means
State House Room 243, Boston, MA 02108

Dear Chair Rodrigues and Chair Michlewitz,

Thank you for all your work to prevent homelessness and housing insecurity. Without legal representation, many tenants risk becoming homeless. Laws are complicated. Courts are complicated. And most tenants are unrepresented and face eviction alone. The time is now to start a statewide Access to Counsel program.

We urge the Joint Committee on Ways and Means to include in your FY25 budget $3.5 Million (Line-item 0321-1800) to start an Access to Council program in tandem with the full Access to Council bill language in S.864/H.4360, which provides the framework for a statewide program.

[Add a sentence about your organization, why this is important to you/your organizations, or a story that you know of someone who faced eviction alone]

Thank you,
[Your name, email address]

Rep. Vanna Howard is a member of the Committee AND a co-sponsor. Constituents, make sure she knows where you stand regarding Access to Counsel.

The Truth About Crisis Pregnancy Centers

Tuesday, March 26, 2024, 7:30-8:30pm 
Virtual – RSVP: https://secure.everyaction.com/uHE4Kp7aXE6sPvrDg5uLTA2
Sponsor:Indivisible National

Crisis pregnancy centers pretend to help women seeking healthcare, but in reality they use deceitful practices and spread disinformation with the goal of ending abortion access. Did you know that your tax dollars even fund them? Join us to learn who operates these centers, how they mislead vulnerable women and what we can do to fight back. Our friends at Grandmothers for Reproductive Rights organize against these centers and will share the tactics they use to successfully expose them.

GAI Bi-Weekly Postcard Action Hour

Wednesday, March 27,  6-7:30pm
Panera, 58 Peters St, North Andover
Sponsor: Greater Andover Indivisible
RSVP: https://www.mobilize.us/indivisiblegreaterandover/event/565734/

Leading up to the 2024 elections, we’ll be writing to voters in key swing states/districts with messages about must-win candidates, progressive issues, Democrats’ accomplishments and urging unregistered likely-Dems to register and vote!

Introduction to Deep Canvassing: The Proven Method to Change Hearts and Minds

Tuesday, March 27, 6-7pm
Sponsor: People’s Action
Virtual – RSVP: https://www.mobilize.us/peoplesaction/event/604454

Immigrants’ Day at the State House

Thursday, March 28, 9am-1pm
State House
RSVP: https://miracoalition.org/news/immigrants-day-at-the-state-house-2024/

Each year hundreds of immigrant and refugee constituents from across the Commonwealth come together in the State House to celebrate their contributions and advocate for their legislative and budget priorities. Join MIRA this year to advocate for new arrivals, language access, the Safe Communities Act, and internationally trained physician licensure.

Despite legal barriers and an increase in hate towards immigrants and refugees, we continue to move forward together, fostering the courage it takes to fuel change.

At Immigrants’ Day you will hear personal stories from political and community leaders, as well as have the opportunity to speak directly with legislators about policies that affect our communities.

Postcards for Democracy

Thursday, March 28, 10:30am-Noon
Kimball Farm Country Store, 400 Littleton Road, Westford
Sponsor: Indivisible Westford
$15 per packet
https://turnpurple2blue.org/2024/02/25/postcards-for-democracy/

Join fellow activists every Thursday to write postcards over coffee and conversations.

State Level Actions

Ask your legislators to support independent correctional oversight

Please ask your legislators to support and pass S.1545/H.3956 – An Act creating an independent correctional oversight office to facilitate the recommendations of the Special Legislative Commission on Structural Racism in Correctional Facilities of the Commonwealth

https://secure.everyaction.com/HNovRAJC0EWex1qjZZan3 Q2
h/t Stella Ko, Indivisible Acton

To Contact the Governor

Governor’s Office of Constituent Services (617) 725-4005
Call between 9am and 5pm and leave a message.

Or email the governor, using this form: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/email-the-governors-office#email-the-governor-using-this-form-

Our State Legislators’ Info

Speaker Ronald Mariano Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2500 | Rm 356
Senate President Karen Spilka Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov | 617-722-1500 | Rm 332
Rep. Rodney Elliott Rodney.Elliott@ma.house.gov | 617-722-2000 x7313 | Rm B1
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2060 | Rm 33
Local office: 25 Central Street, ground floor, Lowell
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2637 | Rm 544
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2380 | Rm 238
Senator Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov | 617-722-1630 | Rm 109-E
Senator Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov | 617-722-1572 | Rm 109-D
Senator Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov | 617-722-1120 | Rm 511-C
Senator Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov | 617-722-1612 | Rm 511A
(… or find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

National Actions

How to Contact the White House

https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/write-or-call/
(Includes a link to send email.)

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion
309 Hart Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-4543
2400 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury Street | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-3170

Senator Edward Markey
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-2742
975 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury St | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-8519

Representative Lori Trahan
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm
2439 Rayburn HOB | Washington, DC 20515 | 202-225-3411
126 John Street | Lowell, MA 01852 | 978-459-0101

Representative Seth Moulton
https://moulton.house.gov/contact
202-225-8020 | 978-531-1669

The RRT (Rapid Response Team) Action List compiles action items from the week and upcoming events into one place. If you would like to add anything to the weekly update, please send it to Dee Halzack at dee@solidaritylowell.com.

Solidarity Lowell is a volunteer group of community members of Greater Lowell working toward social justice by defending the human rights, dignity, and equality of all persons against all forms of hate and discrimination.

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website at solidaritylowell.com

Link to minutes of March meeting
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FhXowZwSF9z5vMn6btn9dZRp_fPOiysFqLi8bEDKTIQ/edit?usp=sharing

Link to recording of March meeting
https://youtu.be/T1rCkyp9rkU

See recordings of past Solidarity Lowell meetings in our YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCohwMIkVdabQdDHsVTLIGsQ

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Join at: https://www.progressivemass.com/donate/

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Tabling at Lowell Folk Fest

Saturday July 29 and Sunday July 30, 12pm-6pm

Solidarity Lowell will be tabling at Lowell Folk Fest Saturday 7/29 and Sunday 7/30, 12 noon to 6 pm both days. If you’re able to take a 1 or 2 hour shift, please contact chris@solidaritylowell.com.

Support Needed for Asylum-Seekers

Emergency Assistance Requested! We just received word that Lillian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, and her baby will be evicted from her new apartment on August 1st. Donations can be sent to Marissa Dupont, who will pass them along to Lillian. CashApp: $gollygee17   Venmo: @owlnerd

For checks, cash donations, or gift cards, email marissa @ solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off.

Marius, an asylum-seeker from Togo who we assisted since 2018, also is in need of assistance. Donations can be made to him here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

Thank you!!!

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, July 25 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

Meetings are held bi-weekly in Council Chamber during the summer, Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. (Next meeting July 25.) Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows:  Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Local Cable Channel 99).

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07252023-2780?html=true

Items of possible interest

4. GENERAL PUBLIC HEARINGS

4.1.Ordinance – Amend Zoning – Accessory Dwelling Units. (Cont. From 7/11/23)
HTTPS://WWW.LOWELLMA.GOV/AGENDACENTER/VIEWFILE/ITEM/24066?FILEID=49172

We need folks to speak in support of ADU’S!

MOTION RESPONSES

C) MOTION RESPONSE – FOOT AND CAR PATROLS BACK CENTRAL, ST. JOHNS, MOBILE COMMAND.PDF
I) MOTION RESPONSE – REGIONAL HOMELESS SUMMIT.PDF
O) MOTION RESPONSE – RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL.PDF
S) MOTION RESPONSE – AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST FUND.PDF

5.3 Communication – Planning Board Recommendation To Proposed Zoning Code Amendment Regarding Accessory Dwelling Units.
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24634?fileID=50057

6. VOTES FROM THE CITY MANAGER

6.1. Vote – Accept/Expend FY24 Affordable Housing Earmark ($75,000)
6.8. Vote – Endorse The Edge Affordable Housing Project (One Merrimack Plaza, $2.5 Million)

8.ORDINANCES FROM THE CITY MANAGER

8.1.Ordinance – MBTA Communities Zoning Amendments
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24677?fileID=50081

12.CITY COUNCIL – MOTIONS

12.2.C. Yem – Req. City Mgr. Have The Proper Department Look Into Joining The Massachusetts Broadband Coalition And To Apply For Funding The State Receives Through The National Broadband Equity, Access And Deployment Program To Extend High-Speed Internet Throughout The City.

12.4.C. Scott – Req. City Mgr. Implement A Plan To Enforce All Requirements Of Chapter 176-2 Of The City Housing Standards. [this has to do with regular – 5 year intervals – inspection of rental housing]

To speak, you must register by 4pm the day of the meeting. Those wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item must register to speak in advance of the meeting by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that you may be issued a Zoom link to the meeting if you wish to speak remotely. Email Address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If you have no access to email you may contact the City Clerk at 978-674-4161.

To contact any City Councilor, or the City Manager, by email, use this webform https://www.lowellma.gov/formcenter/contact-the-city-council-5/city-council-contact-form-45 and check off who you’re writing to.

Public Hearing on Renewal of the Franchise License Agreement between the City of Lowell and Comcast

Thursday, July 27, 4 PM

From LTC:
…there will be a public hearing held in the Mayor’s Reception Room at Lowell City Hall concerning the renewal of the Franchise License Agreement between the City of Lowell and Comcast. This agreement is the main way that LTC is funded – the money we receive from it goes towards paying our staff, maintaining our facilities, and updating the equipment we make available to members of the public.

The purpose of this hearing is to give the public a chance to weigh on what the needs of the community are as it relates to the benefits that this funding provides, how the City and public need these benefits to continue, and why it makes sense for Comcast to continue to provide these services and financial support to the City. If you value the resources that LTC makes available to the community, we ask that you please make the time to attend this meeting and speak publicly about how you’ve made use of those resources, how the community at large benefits from them, and what you would like to see in the new agreement between Comcast and the City.

Members of the public can attend in-person or over Zoom, and anybody in attendance may speak without having to submit a request beforehand. Members of the public may also submit written testimony if they are unable to make it to the meeting. Many of us from LTC will be in attendance, and we hope to see you there and hear about what you would like to see going forward in terms of the resources we are able to make available to our community!

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at programming@ltc.org.
—–
Join Zoom Meeting
https://lowellma.zoom.us/j/87838494293…
Meeting ID: 878 3849 4293
Passcode: 562260

One tap mobile
+13052241968,,87838494293#,,,,*562260# US
+13092053325,,87838494293#,,,,*562260# US

Participants sought for Decarbonization Pathways Pilot (second cohort)

350MA reminds us that the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is seeking around 45 homes to participate in the second cohort of the Decarbonization Pathways Pilot. The pilot offers technical support and financial incentives to implement high-efficiency decarbonization measures. This is a great opportunity to get the technical support and financial assistance to bring your home into the 21st century!

MassCEC is accepting applications between July 12, 2023 and July 30, 2023.

MassCEC is specifically looking for participants who intend to install heat pumps and/or replace their home’s siding to create a better insulated envelope within the coming year. We will also be asking all participants to complete a “Home Modernization Package” that ensures the home is well-prepared to convert away from fossil fuel appliances as they make future purchases (e.g., the next time the heat or hot water heater needs to be replaced). We will also be looking for geographic, income, and building type diversity within the cohort. To learn more about applying for the second cohort, read our blog or review the application.

Please consider applying and sharing this opportunity with your network. If you have any questions, please contact us at buildings@masscec.com.

Support for our unhoused siblings

Life Connection Center is calling for donations to help our unhoused siblings cope with the weather.

Needs:

• Bottled water
• Ponchos
• Umbrellas
• Gently Used or New Towels for Shower Service
• Undergarments
• Outreach Snacks

Items may be dropped off Monday through Friday 8am-6pm and Sunday through Thursday 7pm-10pm at 192 Appleton Street.

You may also contribute through their Amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/ARW4F37SG12T?ref_=wl_share

Local mutual aid group LLAMA is also collecting to help assist the displaced folks:

Thank you all for the donations we have received so far on our Venmo (@Lowell-LLAMA) and CashApp ($LowellLLAMA).

Reminder: We are in direct contact with those who were displaced and we are generating a list of items they need replaced, and all funds you send us that are labeled as for the displaced will be used for this purpose. We are a volunteer group of people building solidarity together (not a nonprofit) with no paid staff.

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK continues with their regular cleanups.

To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe
Sign up to volunteer, check out their schedule and more.

Saturday, July 29-30, ALL DAY: Folk Fest Compost & Recycling Team
Sign up at ttps://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Other Events

Prison Moratorium Bill Hearing (H1795)

Tuesday, July 25, 1pm
State House Rm A-2 & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on Judiciary)

Urge your legislators to support the Prison Moratorium: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/prison-moratorium-2023

Prison Phone Calls Bill Hearing (H1796)

Tuesday, July 25, 1pm
State House Rm A-2 & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on Judiciary)

Indivisible Acton Hosts David Pepper on Avoiding Ohio Mistakes in MA

Tuesday, July 25, 7-8:30pm
RSVP: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUofu2srT8oGdMYO5l6gcQYWMl6UKS471H5#/registration

David Pepper is former chair of the Ohio Democratic Party. A panel discussion will cover making the MA State House “a more robust laboratory for democracy”

Community Immunity Bill Hearing (H2151 /S1458)

Wednesday, July 26, 9am
State House Gardner Auditorium & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on Public Health)

Moratorium on New Gas System Expansion Bill Hearing (H3237/S2135)

Wednesday, July 26, 1pm
State House Room A2 & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Senate Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy)

Public Meeting Participation Bill Hearing (H.3040/S.2024)

Wednesday, July 26, 1pm
State House Room A1 & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on State Administration & Regulatory Oversight)

Public Records Law Extension to Governor and Legislature Hearing (S.2064)

Wednesday, July 26, 1pm
State House Room A1 & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on State Administration & Regulatory Oversight)

Yes in My Back Yard Bill Hearing (H1379)

Wednesday, July 26, 2pm
State House Room B2 & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on Housing)

Turning Crisis to Hope: Responding to the Arrival of Thousands of Haitians in Massachusetts

Wednesday, July 26, 5pm
Sponsor: International Institute of New England
RSVP: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_R9XX-7fOSea222dJj6jbLA#/registration

Moratorium on New Gas System Expansion Bill Hearing (H3237/S2135)

Thursday, July 27, 10am
State House Room A1 & virtual on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (House Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy)

Climate Refugees

Thursday, July 27, 12pm
Sponsor: Othering & Belonging Institute
REGISTER: https://secure.everyaction.com/HOQEsmIgWU6kfrZ2rz9mxA2?emci=7ad37d19-a325-ee11-a9bb-00224832eb73&emdi=7a2df723-4926-ee11-a9bb-00224832eb73&ceid=12712789

This panel brings together several experts to discuss Global North countries’, institutions’, and industries’ culpability for the climate crisis, and how action on their part is essential to mitigating the crisis of climate-induced displacement by ensuring the safe resettlement of climate refugees, and fostering diversified climate-resilient economies and just transitions across the Global South and Global North alike.

Local Innovations In Addressing Homelessness

Friday, July 28, 1pm
Sponsor: Bipartisan Policy Center
RSVP:  eventbrite.com/e/local-innovations-in-addressing-homelessness-tickets-677554582997?aff=oddtdtcreator&_cldee=lxDruGY_RssfBQ2nUFaT3NgbtCGDhC-9UA6xRGaxrwugz-Q___y05Xyyql92V62V&recipientid=contact-a1b1f8da20cdeb11869c00155d3b3c69-1f332a19c3e74361a51c130f52bdf062

As the issue of homelessness continues to gain national attention, it is crucial to draw upon the lessons learned from places that have effectively reduced homelessness. This webinar aims to highlight organizations and public officials successfully tackling homelessness at the local level, offering policymakers at all levels of government the opportunity to learn from effective strategies to promote housing stability for unhoused people.

Join us as local leaders come together to showcase innovative approaches for meeting the needs of unhoused people, share valuable insights on how to scale up promising interventions, and discuss how the federal government can support successful programs.

NAACP National Convention Call for Volunteers

July 29-August 1
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

The NAACP’s national convention is taking place in Boston. They need lots of volunteers. Here’s a generic sign-up form (https://support.naacp.org/a/2023-naacp-national-convention-volunteer-sign-form) which will be followed by another form where we can sign up for some days and not others, some types of tasks, etc. Volunteer shifts will be 3 hours long. Attending workshops requires registering for the convention, but we were told there are lots of things that don’t require registering.

GAI Bi-Weekly Postcard Action Hour At Panera

Wednesday, August 2, 6pm-7:30pm
Panera, 58 Peters St, North Andover
Sponsor: Greater Andover Indivisible

State Level Actions

Tell your electeds to cosponsor the Sunlight Agenda

When, among other things, legislators are given less than 24 hours to review legislation before a vote, we’re getting legislation that is passed because one person, the Speaker of the House, wants it to pass, not because legislators have carefully considered its impact. THAT is not democracy.

The solution, from Act on Mass:
The Sunlight Agenda is Act on Mass’s legislative agenda to restore democratic integrity on Beacon Hill. They have compiled a package of four bills put forward this session that would address our democracy crisis and improve transparency, accountability, and fairness in the State House.

1. An Act to Provide Sunlight to State Government (S.1963), filed by Sen. Jamie Eldridge, would require all recorded committee votes to be posted on the legislature’s website within 48 hours of a vote (a flagship of our People’s House campaign!). It would also require committee hearings to be scheduled at least a week in advance and ensure that testimony is made publicly available. Finally, it would also subject the Governor’s Office to Public Records Law, or PRL, from which they currently claim an exemption.
2. An Act Extending the Public Records Law to the Governor and the Legislature (S.2064), filed by Sen. Becca Rausch, would bring Massachusetts in line with the majority of the country by subjecting both the governor and the Legislature to PRL.
3. An Act Relative to Open Meeting Law (H.3121), filed by Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven, would subject the Legislature to Open Meeting Law, or OML, which already exists and applies to municipal governments and several state agencies, allowing the public to attend meetings of public bodies. This bill would extend that democratic privilege to constituents wishing to monitor legislative proceedings of the State House.
4. An Act relative to collective bargaining rights for legislative employees (S.2014), filed by Sen. John Keenan, would explicitly affirm the right of State House staffers to form a union.

Read more about and tell your electeds to cosponsor the four bills of the Sunlight Agenda.
https://actonmass.org/sunlight-agenda

To Contact the Governor

Governor’s Office of Constituent Services (617) 725-4005
Call between 9am and 5pm and leave a message.

Or email the governor, using this form: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/email-the-governors-office#email-the-governor-using-this-form-

Our State Legislators’ Info

Speaker Ronald Mariano Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2500 | Rm 356
Senate President Karen Spilka Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov | 617-722-1500 | Rm 332
Rep. Rodney Elliott Rodney.Elliott@ma.house.gov | 617-722-2000 x7313 | Rm B1
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2060 | Rm 33
Local office: 25 Central Street, ground floor, Lowell
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2637 | Rm 544
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2380 | Rm 238
Senator Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov | 617-722-1630 | Rm 109-E
Senator Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov | 617-722-1572 | Rm 109-D
Senator Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov | 617-722-1120 | Rm 511-C
Senator Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov | 617-722-1612 | Rm 511A
(… or find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

National Actions

How to Contact the White House

https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/write-or-call/
(Includes a link to send email.)

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion
309 Hart Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-4543
2400 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury Street | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-3170

Senator Edward Markey
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-2742
975 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury St | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-8519

Representative Lori Trahan
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm
2439 Rayburn HOB | Washington, DC 20515 | 202-225-3411
126 John Street | Lowell, MA 01852 | 978-459-0101

Representative Seth Moulton
https://moulton.house.gov/contact
202-225-8020 | 978-531-1669

SOLIDARITY LOWELL BARBECUE UPDATE

Our Annual Barbecue is TOMORROW! PLEASE SIGN UP FOR THE POTLUCK!

Sunday, July 23, 2-7pm
In person

It’s time for the 6th annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue! Join us at Marissa Dupont’s house to celebrate our accomplishments, have some food, and maybe play a game or two!

Please bring lawn chairs if you have them. The Coordinating Committee will provide burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian burgers and hot dogs, and rolls. Please note that this is for Solidarity Lowell members only. We hope to see you there!

SIGN UP FOR THE POTLUCK HERE: https://mealtrain.com/dzqw83

RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/584255546949665/

SEE YOU TOMORROW!

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue THIS SUNDAY! RSVP Today!

Sunday, July 23, 2-7pm
In-person

It’s time for the 6th annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue! Join us at Marissa Dupont’s house to celebrate our accomplishments, have some food, and maybe play a game or two.

Please bring lawn chairs if you have them. The Coordinating Committee will provide burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian burgers and hot dogs, and rolls. Please note that this is for Solidarity Lowell members only. We hope to see you there!

RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/584255546949665/

Tabling at Lowell Folk Fest

Saturday July 29 and Sunday July 30, 12pm-6pm

Solidarity Lowell will be tabling at Lowell Folk Fest Saturday 7/29 and Sunday 7/30, 12 noon to 6 pm both days. If you’re able to take a 1 or 2 hr shift, please contact chris@solidaritylowell.com.

Support Needed for Asylum-Seekers

Emergency Assistance Requested! We just received word that Lillian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, and her baby will be evicted from her new apartment on August 1st. Donations can be sent to Marissa Dupont, who will pass them along to Lillian. CashApp: $gollygee17   Venmo: @owlnerd

For checks, cash donations, or gift cards, email marissa @ solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off.

Marius, an asylum-seeker from Togo who we assisted since 2018, also is in need of assistance. Donations can be made to him here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

Thank you!!!

New Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group Forming

Individuals committed to exploring their own racial biases are invited to participate in the Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group. Engage in supportive, structured dialogues to explore whiteness in contemporary society, especially to better understand the legacy and impact of white supremacy, white privilege, explicit and implicit bias, systemic racism, and microaggressions.

Dialogue group is five sessions, capped at 10 people.

After attending the Dialogue Group, attendees are invited to join the ongoing group.

The ongoing group meets once a month, alternating between discussing a book or watching a film.

Sign up at: https://bit.ly/uw-signup

If you have questions, email Marissa Dupont: marissa@solidaritylowell.com.

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

An Opportunity To Share your Thoughts on Lowell’s Housing Needs

We’re all keenly aware of the housing crisis in Lowell. Don’t miss this opportunity to suggest some solutions. This comes to us from the Northern Middlesex Council of Governments (NMCOG):

The City of Lowell is undertaking its first ever Housing Production Plan, a sister document to the Lowell Forward Comprehensive Master Plan. To inform this plan, we’ve created a community survey to ask residents about the city’s housing needs. Our goal is to have over 500 responses to the Homes, Housing, and Community Survey that will guide this plan—and if everyone we email responds to this survey and asks at least 5 others, we’ll be there! Your answers will guide the goals of these two documents, which will work together to advise City staff, elected officials, partner nonprofits, and others in changing policy, zoning, investments, and more.

Would you please consider responding to the link below and sharing via Western Avenue Lofts and also with your Lowell friends, constituents, and networks:
Lowell Housing, Homes, and Community Survey (Or type bit.ly/lowellhomes into your browser’s search bar)

After you complete the survey, remember to share it with 5 friends.

This survey will close Friday, August 18, 2023, so please take it today! If you have questions about this survey or have difficulty taking it, please contact Chris Hayes, Housing and Economic Development Planner, at chayes @ nmcog.org

Support for our unhoused siblings

Life Connection Center is calling for donations to help our unhoused siblings cope with the weather.

Needs:

• Bottled water
• Ponchos
• Umbrellas
• Gently Used or New Towels for Shower Service
• Undergarments
• Outreach Snacks

Items may be dropped off Monday through Friday 8am-6pm and Sunday through Thursday 7pm-10pm at 192 Appleton Street.

You may also contribute through their Amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/ARW4F37SG12T?ref_=wl_share

Local mutual aid group LLAMA is also collecting to help assist the displaced folks:

Thank you all for the donations we have received so far on our Venmo (@Lowell-LLAMA) and CashApp ($LowellLLAMA).

Reminder: We are in direct contact with those who were displaced and we are generating a list of items they need replaced, and all funds you send us that are labeled as for the displaced will be used for this purpose. We are a volunteer group of people building solidarity together (not a nonprofit) with no paid staff.

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK continues with their regular cleanups.

To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe
Sign up to volunteer, check out their schedule and more.

Next events
Saturday, July 22, 9am-12pm: Pre Folk Fest w/ Canalwaters & LNHP
Meet at Lucy Larcom Park

Saturday, July 29-30, ALL DAY: Folk Fest Compost & Recycling Team
Sign up at ttps://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Lowell African Festival This Saturday!

Saturday July 22, 11am-6pm
Lowell Heritage State Park, Sampas Pavilion, 160 Pawtucket Blvd
https://lowellafricanfestival.org/

Lowell Fall Election

City Election Calendar

https://www.lowellma.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=739

Solidarity Lowell’s Election Subcommittee gearing up

If you are interested in helping to elect/re-elect progressive candidates for Lowell City Council and School Committee, please email Lisa Arnold (likarnold @ gmail.com) or Dee Halzack (dee.halz @ ix.netcom.com)    (delete spaces when using emails cited)
We will be drawing up a survey to vet candidates for possible endorsement by Solidarity Lowell.

At some point after July 18, when the slate of candidates is finalized, Solidarity Lowell will follow their process for endorsing candidates. Among other things, we will be drawing up a list of questions we want prospective endorsees to answer. Once we have selected endorsees, we will begin organizing canvassing events for our endorsees. Want to be a part of that? Contact Lisa or Dee as noted above.

If there is a preliminary election (there must be at least 3 candidates for a district, or 7 at large), which we’ll know on July 19, early voting begins August 23. That’s a little over a month to work for our progressive candidates, so we need to be ready to hit the ground running by July 19.

Campaigns have started up

Tuesday, June 6 was the first day nominating papers could be pulled. Some candidates have already announced and have even collected enough signatures to be certified as candidates.. Deadline to submit papers is Tuesday, July 18, 5pm. The final list will be announced on July 19.

Campaign events have been announced. Here are the latest we know about:

Wayne Jenness fundraiser at Warp & Weft | Thursday July 20, 5:30-7:30pm | cash bar and free apps

Would you like to help compile a Scorecard on incumbent City Councilors? If you are interested in helping to go through minutes and recordings of past City Council meetings and record councilor’s stances on issues important to progressives, including diversity/inclusion/equity, affordable housing, environment, and more, please contact lisa @ solidaritylowell.com or dee.halz @ ix.netcom.com

Other Events

Tuition Equity Bill Hearing ( H1281/S836)

Tuesday, July 18, 1pm
State House Rm A-1 & Virtual

Video link will appear on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on Higher Education)

Community Immunity Bill Hearing (H2151/S1458)

Wednesday, July 19, 9am
State House Gardner Auditorium & Virtual

Video link will appear on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Joint Committee on Public Health)
Submit testimony: email JointCommittee.PublicHealth@malegislature.gov with the subject line “Public Health Committee Testimony, [H.2151/S.1458” in the subject line of the email.

More info about the bill: https://www.beccarauschma.com/community-immunity-act.

Zero Carbon Renovation Fund Bill Hearing (H3232)

Wednesday, July 19, 10am
State House Rm A2 & Virtual

Video link will appear on https://malegislature.gov/Events page under committee (Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy)

Send testimony on a Zero-Carbon Renovation Fund to the House: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/zcrf-house — (And Find a toolkit here)
Send testimony on a Zero-Carbon Renovation Fund to the Senate: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/zcrf-senate

GAI Bi-Weekly Postcard Action Hour At Panera

Wednesday, July 19, 6pm-7:30pm
Panera, 58 Peters St, North Andover
Sponsor: Greater Andover Indivisible

Activist Afternoons

Sunday, July 23, 3:30-5:00pm
Sponsor: Progressive Massachusetts
RSVP: https://www.mobilize.us/progressivemassachusetts/event/566422/

Focus will be on transfer fee bill.

Turning Crisis to Hope: Responding to the Arrival of Thousands of Haitians in Massachusetts

Wednesday, July 26, 5pm
Sponsor: International Institute of New England
RSVP: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_R9XX-7fOSea222dJj6jbLA#/registration

Local Innovations In Addressing Homelessness

Friday, July 28, 1pm
Sponsor: Bipartisan Policy Center
RSVP: eventbrite.com/e/local-innovations-in-addressing-homelessness-tickets-677554582997?aff=oddtdtcreator&_cldee=lxDruGY_RssfBQ2nUFaT3NgbtCGDhC-9UA6xRGaxrwugz-Q___y05Xyyql92V62V&recipientid=contact-a1b1f8da20cdeb11869c00155d3b3c69-1f332a19c3e74361a51c130f52bdf062

As the issue of homelessness continues to gain national attention, it is crucial to draw upon the lessons learned from places that have effectively reduced homelessness. This webinar aims to highlight organizations and public officials successfully tackling homelessness at the local level, offering policymakers at all levels of government the opportunity to learn from effective strategies to promote housing stability for unhoused people.

Join us as local leaders come together to showcase innovative approaches for meeting the needs of unhoused people, share valuable insights on how to scale up promising interventions, and discuss how the federal government can support successful programs.

NAACP National Convention Call for Volunteers

July 29-August 1
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

The NAACP’s national convention is taking place in Boston. They need lots of volunteers. Here’s a generic sign-up form https://support.naacp.org/a/2023-naacp-national-convention-volunteer-sign-form, which will be followed by another form where we can sign up for some days and not others, some types of tasks, etc. Volunteer shifts will be 3 hours long. Attending workshops requires registering for the convention, but we were told there are lots of things that don’t require registering.

State Level Actions

Submit Public Comment for the Healthy Youth Act

24 years after the last time our sex ed curriculum was updated, and 11 years since the Healthy Youth Act, a commonsense bill that would require sex ed to be medically accurate, consent-based, and LGBTQ+ inclusive was introduced, the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) has introduced a new draft sex ed curriculum that is largely in line with its provisions. BESE has now opened up a 60-day public comment period, which means we have until Monday, August 28th to submit comments for improvements to the draft and advocate for approval of the new framework.

Submit public comments here: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/6646350/Comprehensive-Health-and-Physical-Education-Framework-Public-Comment

Tell your electeds to cosponsor the Sunlight Agenda

From: Act on Mass

The Sunlight Agenda is Act on Mass’s legislative agenda to restore democratic integrity on Beacon Hill. We have compiled a package of four bills put forward this session that would address our democracy crisis and improve transparency, accountability, and fairness in the State House.

Read more about and tell your electeds to cosponsor the four bills of the Sunlight Agenda: https://actonmass.org/sunlight-agenda

Urge your legislators to support the Prison Moratorium

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/prison-moratorium-2023

Formerly incarcerated women and families of currently incarcerated women have been fighting plans to build a big new women’s prison as well as advocating for other changes in our correctional system. We know that every time bigger prisons are built, there is a drive to fill them with more people. Many feel that a different approach to corrections is needed. One group that has been leading the way is Families for Justice as Healing – https://www.justiceashealing.org/

To Contact the Governor

Governor’s Office of Constituent Services (617) 725-4005
Call between 9am and 5pm and leave a message.

Or email the governor, using this form: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/email-the-governors-office#email-the-governor-using-this-form-

Our State Legislators’ Info

Speaker Ronald Mariano Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2500 | Rm 356
Senate President Karen Spilka Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov | 617-722-1500 | Rm 332
Rep. Rodney Elliott Rodney.Elliott@ma.house.gov | 617-722-2000 x7313 | Rm B1
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2060 | Rm 33
Local office: 25 Central Street, ground floor, Lowell
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2637 | Rm 544
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2380 | Rm 238
Senator Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov | 617-722-1630 | Rm 109-E
Senator Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov | 617-722-1572 | Rm 109-D
Senator Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov | 617-722-1120 | Rm 511-C
Senator Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov | 617-722-1612 | Rm 511A
(… or find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

National Actions

How to Contact the White House

https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/write-or-call/
(Includes a link to send email.)

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion
309 Hart Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-4543
2400 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury Street | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-3170

Senator Edward Markey
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-2742
975 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury St | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-8519

Representative Lori Trahan
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm
2439 Rayburn HOB | Washington, DC 20515 | 202-225-3411
126 John Street | Lowell, MA 01852 | 978-459-0101

Representative Seth Moulton
https://moulton.house.gov/contact
202-225-8020 | 978-531-1669

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Emergency Support Needed for Asylum-Seeker

Emergency Assistance Requested! We just received word that Lillian will be evicted from her new apartment on August 1st. Donations can be sent to Marissa Dupont, who will pass them along to Lillian.

CashApp: $gollygee17   Venmo: @owlnerd
For checks or cash donations, email marissa @ solidaritylowell.com

Thank you!!!

Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue!

Sunday, July 23, 2-7pm
In-person

It’s time for the 6th annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue! Join us at Marissa Dupont’s house to celebrate our accomplishments, have some food, and maybe play a game or two.

Please bring lawn chairs if you have them. The Coordinating Committee will provide burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian burgers and hot dogs, and rolls. Please note that this is for Solidarity Lowell members only. We hope to see you there!

RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/584255546949665/

Tabling at Lowell Folk Fest

Saturday July 29 and Sunday July 30, 12pm-6pm

Solidarity Lowell will be tabling at Lowell Folk Fest Saturday 7/29 and Sunday 7/30, 12 noon to 6 pm both days. If you’re able to take a 1 or 2 hr shift, please contact chris@solidaritylowell.com.

Support for our unhoused siblings

As many of you may know, another encampment was cleaned out recently. Residents found help saving some of their possessions, but the larger items so necessary to survival (tents, tarps, blankets, pants, raincoats, and ponchos) were lost. Life Connection Center (192 Appleton Street) has volunteered to serve as a collection point for any replacement items you would like to donate. Items may be dropped off Monday through Friday 8am-6pm and Sunday through Thursday 7pm-10pm.

You may also contribute through their Amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/ARW4F37SG12T?ref_=wl_share

Local mutual aid group LLAMA is also collecting to help assist the displaced folks:

Thank you all for the donations we have received so far on our Venmo (@Lowell-LLAMA) and CashApp ($LowellLLAMA).

Reminder: We are in direct contact with those who were displaced and we are generating a list of items they need replaced, and all funds you send us that are labeled as for the displaced will be used for this purpose. We are a volunteer group of people building solidarity together (not a nonprofit) with no paid staff.

New Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group Forming

Individuals committed to exploring their own racial biases are invited to participate in the Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group. Engage in supportive, structured dialogues to explore whiteness in contemporary society, especially to better understand the legacy and impact of white supremacy, white privilege, explicit and implicit bias, systemic racism, and microaggressions.

Dialogue group is five sessions, capped at 10 people.

After attending the Dialogue Group, attendees are invited to join the ongoing group.

The ongoing group meets once a month, alternating between discussing a book or watching a film.

Sign up at: https://bit.ly/uw-signup

If you have questions, email Marissa Dupont: marissa@solidaritylowell.com.

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, July 11 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

Meetings are held bi-weekly in Council Chamber during the summer, Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. (Next meeting July 25.) Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows:  Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Local Cable Channel 99).

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07112023-2772?html=true

Items of possible interest

4. GENERAL PUBLIC HEARINGS

4.1. Ordinance – Amend Zoning – Accessory Dwelling Units
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24066?fileID=49172

MOTIONS

11.10. C. Robinson – Req. City Mgr. Work With Proper Department To Develop A Proactive Solution To Vagrancy, Substance Abuse, Loitering Issues Around St John’s Church Area.(Gorham St)

11.11. C. Robinson/C. Scott – Req. City Mgr. Provide Update On Housing Summit.

11.16. C. Jenness – Req. City Mgr. Put Together A Neighborhood Summit With The Back Central Neighborhood Leaders, Residents, Business Owners, Public Safety Representatives And Other Stakeholders To Discuss Strategies Around Improving Quality Of Life In The Neighborhood.

To speak, you must register by 4pm the day of the meeting. Those wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item must register to speak in advance of the meeting by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that you may be issued a Zoom link to the meeting if you wish to speak remotely. Email Address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If you have no access to email you may contact the City Clerk at 978-674-4161.

To contact any City Councilor, or the City Manager, by email, use this webform
https://www.lowellma.gov/formcenter/contact-the-city-council-5/city-council-contact-form-45
and check off who you’re writing to.

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK continues with their regular cleanups.

To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe
Sign up to volunteer, check out their schedule and more.

Next events
Saturday, July 15, 8am-11am: Sheehy Park Big Hall (ages 14+)
Meet at Sheehy Park (West End)

Saturday, July 22, 9am-12pm: Pre Folk Fest w/ Canalwaters & LNHP
Meet at Lucy Larcom Park

Saturday, July 29-30, ALL DAY: Folk Fest Compost & Recycling Team
Sign up at ttps://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Meetings are held bi-weekly in Council Chamber during the summer, Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. (Next meeting July 25.) Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows:  Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Local Cable Channel 99).

Lowell African Festival

Saturday July 22, 11am-6pm
Lowell Heritage State Park, Sampas Pavilion, 160 Pawtucket Blvd

Lowell Fall Election

City Election Calendar

https://www.lowellma.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=739

Solidarity Lowell’s Election Subcommittee gearing up

If you are interested in helping to elect/re-elect progressive candidates for Lowell City Council and School Committee, please email Lisa Arnold (likarnold @ gmail.com) or Dee Halzack (dee.halz @ ix.netcom.com)    (delete spaces when using emails cited)
We will be drawing up a survey to vet candidates for possible endorsement by Solidarity Lowell.

At some point after July 18, when the slate of candidates is finalized, Solidarity Lowell will follow their process for endorsing candidates. Among other things, we will be drawing up a list of questions we want prospective endorsees to answer. Once we have selected endorsees, we will begin organizing canvassing events for our endorsees. Want to be a part of that? Contact Lisa or Dee as noted above.

If there is a preliminary election (there must be at least 3 candidates for a district, or 7 at large), which we’ll know on July 19, early voting begins August 23. That’s a little over a month to work for our progressive candidates, so we need to be ready to hit the ground running by July 19.

Campaigns have started up

Tuesday, June 6 was the first day nominating papers could be pulled. Some candidates have already announced and have even collected enough signatures to be certified as candidates.. Deadline to submit papers is Tuesday, July 18, 5pm. The final list will be announced on July 19.

Campaign events have been announced. Here are the latest we know about:

Justin Savoung Ford for District 6 Campaign Kickoff BBQ, Friday, July 14, 6pm
Location: 69 Hastings St

Would you like to help compile a Scorecard on incumbent City Councilors? If you are interested in helping to go through minutes and recordings of past City Council meetings and record councilor’s stances on issues important to progressives, including diversity/inclusion/equity, affordable housing, environment, and more, please contact lisa @ solidaritylowell.com or dee.halz @ ix.netcom.com

Other Events

Put Gas in the Past Legislative Action Webinar

Wednesday, July 12, 6 pm
RSVP: https://sierraclub.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwrdO2gpj4qHtFBqQur__JuaeZQOurAhSk8#/registration?link_id=0&can_id=ee66e076545e936b45bdb6f0eeb2b2ad&source=email-put-gas-in-the-past-now&email_referrer=email_1981910&email_subject=put-gas-in-the-past-now

Learn about proposed new legislation to put a moratorium on new gas infrastructure.

Common Start Rally at the State House

Thursday, 7/13, 11am
Location: Grand Staircase, Massachusetts State House, Boston

Make sure to RSVP here: https://bit.ly/csrally7-13 and indicate whether you need a ride.

Please join the Common Start Coalition for a family-friendly rally at the State House. This is an incredible opportunity to keep up the momentum for high-quality, affordable, and accessible early education and care in Massachusetts.

Of course, the people most impacted by the Common Start vision are children themselves – and the Coalition encourages you to bring your children of all ages to the State House for this event! Following a brief speaking program, children and their families will lead a march through the State House to demonstrate the power of our coalition and to highlight solutions to the child care crisis. Art and other activities for children will be a part of the event.

Interpretation: There will be Spanish interpretation for the event.

There will be buses to the State House from Springfield, Lowell, Andover, New Bedford, Fall River, Brockton, Franklin Park, Worcester, Sagamore, and Barnstable.

Support Safe Staffing in Nursing Homes: Virtual Rally

Thursday, July 13, 2pm
Sponsor: SEIU
RSVP: https://act.seiu.org/a/julyvirtualrally?link_id=3&can_id=ee66e076545e936b45bdb6f0eeb2b2ad&source=email-nursing-home-safe-staffing-rally&email_referrer=email_1977005&email_subject=join-us-virtual-rally-to-support-nursing-home-safe-staffing

Let CMS know that a strong federal staffing standard is the only way to end the long-term care crisis in our country.

Virtual Panel Discussion Re: Supreme Court Decision – Affirmative Action

Thursday July 13, at 6pm
Sponsor: MEJA, API CAN
Co-Sponsor: CARE
RSVP: https://actionnetwork.org/events/community-discussion-supreme-court-affirmative-action-decision

Panel will bring together civil rights and educational justice leaders for a dialogue about what the ruling means for the future of diversity, equity, and educational justice in higher education. Panelists will discuss what we can do here in Massachusetts to ensure that all our communities, especially our historically impacted groups, have equitable access to colleges and universities.

Put Gas in the Past Legislative Hearings

Wednesday, July 26, 1-5pm, Statehouse Room A2
Thursday, July 27, 10am-1pm, Statehouse Room A1

Pack the room in support of bills S.2135 and H.3237.to put a moratorium on new gas infrastructure.

WRITE: Submit written testimony in favor of S.2135 and H.3237. Send your written testimony to the Senate TUE members to Lexi.Concannon@masenate.gov, and to the House TUE members to JointCommittee.Utilities&Energy@malegislature.gov by Friday, July 28th at 5:00 p.m.

NAACP National Convention Call for Volunteers

July 29-August 1
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

The NAACP’s national convention is taking place in Boston. They need lots of volunteers. Here’s a generic sign-up form https://support.naacp.org/a/2023-naacp-national-convention-volunteer-sign-form which will be followed by another form where we can sign up for some days and not others, some types of tasks, etc. Volunteer shifts will be 3 hours long. Attending workshops requires registering for the convention, but we were told there are lots of things that don’t require registering.

Gun Safety

Looking for groups working on gun safety?

The best way to combat the feeling of helplessness that hits after yet another spate of gun violence is to do something. Find the one thing you can do and do it. It can be as simple as writing to your legislators or donating to one of the organizations that is working on the issue.

Massachusetts laws are much more protective than those of some states. Still, we could do better. States United to Prevent Gun Violence is a loose network of state organizations working on the issue. The Massachusetts organization is Stop Hand Gun Violence – https://stophandgunviolence.org/

We know that the level of gun violence in this country is horrible (#1 killer of children!)  and that it won’t change until lax gun laws change. Since our state is already doing a fairly good job (though there’s room for improvement) and guns do not understand borders, it makes sense to work with organizations that seek to elect officials in OTHER states who will implement saner gun policies. Gun Sense Voter is one of those – https://gunsensevoter.org/

National Organizations Working to Prevent Gun Violence

Moms Demand Action – https://momsdemandaction.org/
Brady United Against Gun Violence – https://www.bradyunited.org/
Giffords – https://giffords.org/

State Level Actions – from Progressive Massachusetts

Urge your State Legislators to Reject Permanent Tax Breaks for the Ultra-rich

Over the coming weeks, a group of six legislators (3 from the House and 3 from the Senate) are negotiating the final details of a tax package.

Back in April, the House passed a fairly regressive tax package, filled with tax cuts for the ultra-rich and large corporations. The Senate, a few weeks ago, passed a more equitable tax package.

At a time when the state’s economic outlook is uncertain, and working families are struggling to get ahead, Massachusetts needs to prioritize spending on what will make our state truly affordable, equitable, and competitive: programs that ensure a labor force adequate to our economy’s needs, not tax cuts for the ultra-rich.

That group of six negotiators, called a “Conference Committee,” consists of Senate Ways & Means Chair Michael Rodrigues (D-Westport), Senate Revenue Chair Susan Moran (D-Falmouth), Senate Revenue Ranking Minority Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton), House Ways & Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz (D-North End), House Revenue Chair Mark Cusack (D-Braintree), and House Revenue Ranking Minority Michael Soter (R-Bellingham). And they need to hear from your legislators.

Please write to your legislators today to ask them to urge the Conference Committee to reject permanent tax cuts for the ultra-rich and large corporations.

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/conference-committee-2

Advocate for specific budget items important to working families

Urge your legislators to support tuition equity, permanent universal school meals, and no cost calls for the incarcerated in the FY 2024 budget:

Use the pre-written editable email here:
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/equity-budget-fy2024

A point you might want to add: The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation (MTF) reports that according to their calculations, undocumented students could generate approximately $2.6 million to $3.5 million in new revenue for public higher education institutions. These figures are a sharp rebuttal to arguments mischaracterizing tuition equity as a burden- instead of a revenue generator – to public higher education institutions.

Urge your legislators to support the Prison Moratorium

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/prison-moratorium-2023

Formerly incarcerated women and families of currently incarcerated women have been fighting plans to build a big new women’s prison as well as advocating for other changes in our correctional system. We know that every time bigger prisons are built, there is a drive to fill them with more people. Many feel that a different approach to corrections is needed. One group that has been leading the way is Families for Justice as Healing – https://www.justiceashealing.org/

To Contact the Governor

Governor’s Office of Constituent Services (617) 725-4005
Call between 9am and 5pm and leave a message.

Or email the governor, using this form: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/email-the-governors-office#email-the-governor-using-this-form-

Our State Legislators’ Info

Speaker Ronald Mariano Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2500 | Rm 356
Senate President Karen Spilka Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov | 617-722-1500 | Rm 332
Rep. Rodney Elliott Rodney.Elliott@ma.house.gov | 617-722-2000 x7313 | Rm B1
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2060 | Rm 33
Local office: 25 Central Street, ground floor, Lowell
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2637 | Rm 544
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2380 | Rm 238
Senator Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov | 617-722-1630 | Rm 109-E
Senator Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov | 617-722-1572 | Rm 109-D
Senator Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov | 617-722-1120 | Rm 511-C
Senator Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov | 617-722-1612 | Rm 511A
(… or find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

National Actions

How to Contact the White House

https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/write-or-call/
(Includes a link to send email.)

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion
309 Hart Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-4543
2400 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury Street | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-3170

Senator Edward Markey
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-2742
975 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury St | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-8519

Representative Lori Trahan
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm
2439 Rayburn HOB | Washington, DC 20515 | 202-225-3411
126 John Street | Lowell, MA 01852 | 978-459-0101

Representative Seth Moulton
https://moulton.house.gov/contact
202-225-8020 | 978-531-1669

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue!

Sunday, July 23, 2-7pm
In-person

It’s time for the 6th annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue! Join us at Marissa Dupont’s house to celebrate our accomplishments, have some food, and maybe play a game or two.

Please bring lawn chairs if you have them. The Coordinating Committee will provide burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian burgers and hot dogs, and rolls. Please note that this is for Solidarity Lowell members only. We hope to see you there!

RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/584255546949665/

Tabling at Lowell Folk Fest

Saturday July 29 and Sunday July 30, 12pm-6pm

Solidarity Lowell will be tabling at Lowell Folk Fest Saturday 7/29 and Sunday 7/30, 12 noon to 6 pm both days. If you’re able to take a 1 or 2 hr shift, please contact chris@solidaritylowell.com.

Support for our unhoused siblings

As many of you may know, another encampment was cleaned out last week. Residents found help saving some of their possessions, but the larger items so necessary to survival (tents, tarps, blankets, pants, raincoats, and ponchos) were lost. Life Connection Center (192 Appleton Street) has volunteered to serve as a collection point for any replacement items you would like to donate. Items may be dropped off Monday through Friday 8am-6pm and Sunday through Thursday 7pm-10pm.

You may also contribute through their Amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/ARW4F37SG12T?ref_=wl_share

Local mutual aid group LLAMA is also collecting to help assist the displaced folks:

Thank you all for the donations we have received so far on our Venmo (@Lowell-LLAMA) and CashApp ($LowellLLAMA).

Reminder: We are in direct contact with those who were displaced and we are generating a list of items they need replaced, and all funds you send us that are labeled as for the displaced will be used for this purpose. We are a volunteer group of people building solidarity together (not a nonprofit) with no paid staff.

Support for Asylum-Seekers

Lillian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, and her baby need assistance after a recent move. Gift cards can be given to Marissa Dupont. Email marissa@solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off.

Marius, an asylum-seeker from Togo who we assisted since 2018, also is in need of assistance. Donations can be made to him here:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

Thank you!!!

New Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group Forming

Individuals committed to exploring their own racial biases are invited to participate in the Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group. Engage in supportive, structured dialogues to explore whiteness in contemporary society, especially to better understand the legacy and impact of white supremacy, white privilege, explicit and implicit bias, systemic racism, and microaggressions.

Dialogue group is five sessions, capped at 10 people.

After attending the Dialogue Group, attendees are invited to join the ongoing group.

The ongoing group meets once a month, alternating between discussing a book or watching a film.

Sign up at: https://bit.ly/uw-signup

If you have questions, email Marissa Dupont: marissa@solidaritylowell.com.

Lowell Events & Actions

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK continues with their regular cleanups.

To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe
Sign up to volunteer, check out their schedule and more.

Next events
Saturday, July 8, 8am-11am: Cambodia Town Cleanup
Meet at Pailin Park

Saturday, July 15, 8am-11am: Sheehy Park Big Hall (ages 14+)
Meet at Sheehy Park (West End)

Saturday, July 22, 9am-12pm: Pre Folk Fest w/ Canalwaters & LNHP
Meet at Lucy Larcom Park

Saturday, July 29-30, ALL DAY: Folk Fest Compost & Recycling Team
Sign up at ttps://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday July 11, 6:30pm
At City Hall and online.

Meetings are held bi-weekly in Council Chamber during the summer, Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. (Next meeting July 25.) Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows:  Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Local Cable Channel 99).

Lowell African Festival

Saturday July 22, 11am-6pm
Lowell Heritage State Park, Sampas Pavilion, 160 Pawtucket Blvd

Lowell Fall Election

Solidarity Lowell’s Election Subcommittee gearing up

If you are interested in helping to elect/re-elect progressive candidates for Lowell City Council and School Committee, please email Lisa Arnold (likarnold @ gmail.com) or Dee Halzack (dee.halz @ ix.netcom.com)
(delete spaces when using emails cited)

We will be drawing up a survey to vet candidates for possible endorsement by Solidarity Lowell.

Campaigns have started up

The election schedule for the municipal election has been set. Tuesday, June 6 was the first day nominating papers could be pulled. Some candidates have already announced. Deadline to submit papers is Tuesday, July 18, 5pm.

Campaign events have been announced. Here are the latest we know about:

• Susie Chhoun Campaign Kick-off for District 5, Sunday July 9, 3-7pm – Sompao Meas (450 Chelmsford St)
• Justin Savoung Ford for District 6 Campaign Kickoff BBQ, Friday, July 14, 6pm – 69 Hastings St

The last day to submit nominating papers is Tuesday, July 18. At some point after July 18, when the slate of candidates is finalized, Solidarity Lowell will follow their process for endorsing candidates. Once we have selected endorsees, we will begin organizing canvassing events for our endorsees. Want to be a part of that? Contact Lisa or Dee as noted above.  Among other things, we will be drawing up a list of questions we want prospective endorsees to answer.

If there is a preliminary election (there must be at least 3 candidates for a district, or 7 at large), which we’ll know on July 19, early voting begins August 23. That’s a little over a month to work for our progressive candidates, so we need to be ready to hit the ground running by then.

Other Events

Progressive Massachusetts Activist Sundays

Sundays, 3:30-5:00pm  next: July 9
RSVP: https://www.mobilize.us/progressivemassachusetts/event/566422/

This Sunday will focus on the Transfer Fee bill, which would allow cities and towns to levy a small fee on high-end real estate transactions to provide much-needed funding for affordable housing.

Joint Committee on Housing Hearing

Tuesday, July 11, 1pm
Location: Massachusetts State House Room A-1

Will review approximately 6 Senate bills and 13 House bills on housing, mostly about affordability, but also brokers’ commissions and foreclosures.

The hearing is not listed on the legislative schedule as being hybrid. Don’t know if it will do any good to contact anyone about that. Co-chairs are Sen. Lydia Edwards (lydia.edwards @ masenate.gov) and Rep. James Arciero (James.Arciero @ mahouse.gov).  Phone contacts: Senate: (617) 722-1634; House: (617) 722-2575.

Common Start Rally at the State House

Thursday, 7/13, 11:00am
Location: Grand Staircase, Massachusetts State House

Make sure to RSVP here: https://bit.ly/csrally7-13 and indicate whether you need a ride.

Please join the Common Start Coalition for a family-friendly rally at the State House. This is an incredible opportunity to keep up the momentum for high-quality, affordable, and accessible early education and care in Massachusetts.

Of course, the people most impacted by the Common Start vision are children themselves – and the Coalition encourages you to bring your children of all ages to the State House for this event! Following a brief speaking program, children and their families will lead a march through the State House to demonstrate the power of our coalition and to highlight solutions to the child care crisis. Art and other activities for children will be a part of the event.

Interpretation: There will be Spanish interpretation for the event.

There will be buses to the State House from Springfield, Lowell, Andover, New Bedford, Fall River, Brockton, Franklin Park, Worcester, Sagamore, and Barnstable.

State Level Actions – from Progressive Massachusetts

Urge your State Legislators to Reject Permanent Tax Breaks for the Ultra-rich

Over the coming weeks, a group of six legislators (3 from the House and 3 from the Senate) are negotiating the final details of a tax package.

Back in April, the House passed a fairly regressive tax package, filled with tax cuts for the ultra-rich and large corporations. The Senate, a few weeks ago, passed a more equitable tax package.

At a time when the state’s economic outlook is uncertain, and working families are struggling to get ahead, Massachusetts needs to prioritize spending on what will make our state truly affordable, equitable, and competitive: programs that ensure a labor force adequate to our economy’s needs, not tax cuts for the ultra-rich.

That group of six negotiators, called a “Conference Committee,” consists of Senate Ways & Means Chair Michael Rodrigues (D-Westport), Senate Revenue Chair Susan Moran (D-Falmouth), Senate Revenue Ranking Minority Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton), House Ways & Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz (D-North End), House Revenue Chair Mark Cusack (D-Braintree), and House Revenue Ranking Minority Michael Soter (R-Bellingham). And they need to hear from your legislators.

Please write to your legislators today to ask them to urge the Conference Committee to reject permanent tax cuts for the ultra-rich and large corporations.

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/conference-committee-2

Advocate for specific budget items important to working families

Urge your legislators to support tuition equity, permanent universal school meals, and no cost calls for the incarcerated in the FY 2024 budget:

Use the pre-written editable email here:
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/equity-budget-fy2024

A point you might want to add: The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation (MTF) reports that according to their calculations, undocumented students could generate approximately $2.6 million to $3.5 million in new revenue for public higher education institutions. These figures are a sharp rebuttal to arguments mischaracterizing tuition equity as a burden- instead of a revenue generator – to public higher education institutions.

Urge your legislators to support the Prison Moratorium

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/prison-moratorium-2023

Formerly incarcerated women and families of currently incarcerated women have been fighting plans to build a big new women’s prison as well as advocating for other changes in our correctional system. We know that every time bigger prisons are built, there is a drive to fill them with more people. Many feel that a different approach to corrections is needed. One group that has been leading the way is Families for Justice as Healing – https://www.justiceashealing.org/

To Contact the Governor

Governor’s Office of Constituent Services (617) 725-4005
Call between 9am and 5pm and leave a message.

Or email the governor, using this form: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/email-the-governors-office#email-the-governor-using-this-form-

Our State Legislators’ Info

Speaker Ronald Mariano Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2500 | Rm 356
Senate President Karen Spilka Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov | 617-722-1500 | Rm 332
Rep. Rodney Elliott Rodney.Elliott@ma.house.gov | 617-722-2000 x7313 | Rm B1
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2060 | Rm 33
Local office: 25 Central Street, ground floor, Lowell
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2637 | Rm 544
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov | 617-722-2380 | Rm 238
Senator Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov | 617-722-1630 | Rm 109-E
Senator Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov | 617-722-1572 | Rm 109-D
Senator Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov | 617-722-1120 | Rm 511-C
Senator Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov | 617-722-1612 | Rm 511A
(… or find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

National Actions

Student Loan Decision got you feeling trapped? There’s a campaign for that.

More Perfect Union has already sent out an email urging folks to write to Biden asking him to use the Higher Education Act to forgive debt.

Not posted on their website yet (expect that to happen soon).

The Higher Education Act in 1965 gave the Secretary of Education the authority to make or back federal student loans. It also gave the Secretary broad and unrestricted power to cancel or write down that debt — to “enforce, pay, compromise, waive, or release any right, title, claim, lien, or demand, however acquired, including any equity or any right of redemption.”

Secretary Betsy DeVos even used it to cancel debt for certain borrowers. President Biden could direct current Secretary Miguel Cardona to use that power to relieve millions of people of crushing debt.

If you want to do something now, here’s how:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/write-or-call/
There’s even a link to a form for emailing.

How to Contact the White House

https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/write-or-call/
(Includes a link to send email.)

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion
309 Hart Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-4543
2400 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury Street | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-3170

Senator Edward Markey
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building | Washington, DC 20510 | 202-224-2742
975 JFK Federal Building | 15 New Sudbury St | Boston, MA 02203 | 617-565-8519

Representative Lori Trahan
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm
2439 Rayburn HOB | Washington, DC 20515 | 202-225-3411
126 John Street | Lowell, MA 01852 | 978-459-0101

Representative Seth Moulton
https://moulton.house.gov/contact
202-225-8020 | 978-531-1669