Local

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss – Protest Kavanaugh!

Friday, August 10th, 6:30-8:30pm, The Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell and Life Alive, 194 Middle Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, come together at the island in front of City Hall to rally and make your voices heard. We will continue to protest Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination to the Supreme Court. Not only are women’s health and LGBT rights at stake, but he has previously voted to allow more (including foreign) money into our politics! Then at 7:30pm, we’ll walk to Life Alive to have some food and/or refreshing non-alcoholic beverages, and get to know each other and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome! Bring a friend or neighbor!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/291245388303060/

 

 

Day of Action for Sabrina Heisey

Saturday, August 11th, 10am-2pm, 1465 Lakeview Ave, Dracut

Progressive Massachusetts (of which Solidarity Lowell is a chapter) has endorsed her, now let’s help elect her! Join us for a Day of Action for Sabrina Heisey for State Rep, 36th Middlesex, Dracut and Tyngsborough.

RSVP to kriegerjk44@gmail.com or heiseycampaign@gmail.com
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2039433446148448/

 

 

Public Meeting About Parks and Open Spaces

Monday, August 13, 6-8pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway Street, Lowell

Join your neighbors at the Lowell Senior Center to discuss our city’s parks and programs. Tell us how you use them today and what you would like for the future! The Department of Planning and Development is hosting the meeting. Khmer and Spanish translation services will be available.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/197627144244024/

 

 

Stand in Support of Councilor Nuon About Meeting with the New Police Superintendent

Tuesday, August 14th, 6:30pm, Lowell City Hall, 375 Merrimack Street, Lowell

City Councilor Vesna Nuon has filed a motion to be discussed at the City Council meeting on Tuesday that asks that the City Manager schedule a public meeting with the new police superintendent as soon after the hiring as possible. This would be an opportunity for the superintendent to share his policing philosophy, for the public to ask questions and express their concerns, and to foster a positive relationship and spirit of cooperation between the institution and the community.

Watch the Solidarity Lowell Facebook group for more information!

 

 

What a Difference a D.A. Makes

Tuesday, August 14th, 6-7:30pm, Pollard Memorial Library, 401 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Did you know that District Attorneys decide whether to charge a crime or divert a person to necessary drug treatment? They decide whether a crime carries a mandatory lengthy prison sentence. They also decide whether to charge a crime that leads automatically to deportation for immigrants. Learn more from Rahsaan Hall who is leading the ACLU of Massachusetts’ public education campaign about the elected DAs’ key role in determining the fairness and effectiveness of our criminal legal system and how, as voters, we can hold them accountable.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/609399852794870/

 

 

Tyngsboro Canvass for Endorsed Candidates

Tuesday, August 14th, 6-8pm, Tyngsboro (location TBD)

Progressive Massachusetts (of which Solidarity Lowell is a chapter) has finished endorsing candidates – now let’s help them win! In Tyngsboro, we’ll be talking to voters about four candidates endorsed by Progressive Massachusetts: Sabrina Heisey for State Rep, John Drinkwater for State Senate, Josh Zakim for Secretary of State, and Donna Patalano for Middlesex District Attorney!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1789633201072964

UTEC’s Congressional Candidate Forum

Wednesday, August 15th, 5:30-7pm, UTEC Catalyst Center, 17 Warren Street, Lowell

UTEC is hosting a youth-led candidate forum with the MA-03 Congressional Candidates. All candidates have been invited and the event is open to the public. The event will focus on issues chosen by UTEC members and staff.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2706820095998580/

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

Every Tuesday, 9:30-11:30am, The Java Room, 14 Littleton Rd, Chelmsford

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us! We will write lots of postcards to voters for upcoming elections in Massachusetts and Ohio! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

For more information, contact Hope at hope@solidaritylowell.com

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Postcarding!

Every Thursday, 11am-1pm, Heritage Farms Ice Cream, 163 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell

Ice cream, great company, and postcards to voters! Come join us to write postcards for some races right here in Massachusetts! Suggested text and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies as well. You may also want to bring a sweater. The AC is set a tad brisk.

For more information, contact Nancy Greene at greenenk61@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE! The 2nd Annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue

Sunday, August 26th, 2-5pm, Lynne Lupien’s House (address will be emailed the day before the event)

It’s time for the 2nd annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue! Featuring a Ranked Choice Voting Ice Cream Election, this is sure to be a fun event! We’ll also have the Awesomeness is Lowell board game, amongst others! The Coordinating Committee will provide burgers, hot dogs, and veggie burgers and dogs. We will also provide the buns and rolls, with gluten-free versions of each. We hope to see you there! FYI: This event is for Solidarity Lowell members and family only. Thank you!

PLEASE SIGN UP FOR THE POTLUCK HERE: https://www.mealtrain.com/potlucks/dwy0r4
Please RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/227078811277517/

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

State

Volunteer to Help #50MilesMore

From August 22nd to the 26th, students will be marching from Worcester to Springfield, the home of Smith and Wesson, America’s 3rd largest gun manufacturer. Smith and Wesson, producer of the M&P 15 used in Parkland, Aurora, and San Bernardino, continues to deny responsibility and refuse to track where their weapons are going. Students will march to demand that Smith and Wesson recognize their role in the epidemic of gun violence. They are looking for adults who have a day or two off to help by marching with students, driving cars with supplies and setting up rest and lodging locations, or by chaperoning during nights spent at the lodging locations.

To register as a volunteer: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSciErQH8nqFZJfdqCmTozAa2t-GEOrYQVM-jVR0uCCEDVIsXg/viewform

More information: https://50milesmore.org/ma/

 

Make Sure You Can Vote in the MA State Primary Election on Sept. 4th

Please make sure that you (and your friends) will be able to vote in the primary election on Sept. 4th (the day after Labor Day). You must be registered by next Wednesday, August 15th in order to vote on Sept. 4th. You can check your MA voter registration status here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx

Submitting the form also enables you to see sample ballots and confirm your voting location. You can also register to vote or update your registration information online here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/

 

 

 

Local

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

Tuesday, July 31st, 9:30-11:30am, The Java Room, 14 Littleton Rd, Chelmsford

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us! We will write lots of postcards to voters for an upcoming election in Ohio! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1374969772634997/

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Postcarding

Every Thursday, 11am-1pm, Heritage Farms Ice Cream, 163 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell

Ice cream, great company, and postcards to voters! Come join us to write postcards for some races right here in Massachusetts! Suggested text and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies as well. You may also want to bring a sweater. The AC is set a tad brisk.

For more information, contact Nancy Greene at greenenk61@gmail.com

City of Lowell Listening Session: Local Governance

Wednesday, August 1st, 6:30-8pm, Henry J Robinson Middle School, 110 June Street, Lowell

This is part of a series of listening sessions for residents to give feedback about local governance, elections, and the voting rights lawsuit. It’s important for residents to be informed about this issue because they have a high chance in affecting the outcome by giving their feedback to the City Councilors via the ad hoc subcommittee and showing up at the final City Council meeting. Our hopes are that more engagement will translate to local leaders running for local office and voters from diverse communities feeling represented.

More information: https://solidaritylowell.com/event/city-of-lowell-listening-sessions-local-governance-2/

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

SAVE THE DATE: The 2nd Annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue

Sunday, August 26th, 2-5pm, Lynne Lupien’s House (address will be emailed the day before the event)

It’s time for the 2nd annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue! Featuring a Ranked Choice Voting Ice Cream Election, this is sure to be a fun event! We’ll also have the Awesomeness is Lowell board game, amongst others! The Coordinating Committee will provide burgers, hot dogs, and veggie burgers and dogs. We will also provide the buns and rolls, with gluten-free versions of each. We hope to see you there! FYI: This event is for Solidarity Lowell members and family only. Thank you!

PLEASE SIGN UP FOR THE POTLUCK HERE: https://www.mealtrain.com/potlucks/dwy0r4

Please RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/227078811277517/

 

State

Day of Action for Immigrant Families

Saturday, July 28th, 10am, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston

As the Trump Administration drags its heels on reuniting thousands of separated children with their parents, it’s time we once again take action and demand a solution to this crisis and dignity for all immigrants. Right here in Massachusetts, our House leadership did not include any of the Safe Communities Act Senate amendments to the State Budget. Their silence is compliance in the Trump Agenda and the detention/deportation machine and police and ICE collaboration. Because of their cowardice, our neighbors across our state will continue to be separated, detained and deported. We’re stepping up to say Families Belong Together: We Demand Justice!

More information: https://actionnetwork.org/event_campaigns/families-belong-together-we-demand-justice?link_id=0&can_id=a5e967ab99dd2f57b3988b457a7d5829&source=email-july-28-we-demand-justice&email_referrer=email_382300&email_subject=july-28-we-demand-justice

Rally for CLASS Inc. Caregivers

Monday, July 30th, noon-2pm, 1 Parker St., Lawrence

After a one-week strike earlier this month, Lawrence-based human services agency CLASS, Inc. is still refusing to pay its workers fair wages that will adress the high turnover that is threatening the quality of care at the agency! SEIU Local 509 members at CLASS, Inc. have voted overwhelmingly to authorize an open-ended strike beginning on Monday, July 30, and workers are calling on the agency to sit down with workers and negotiate a fair contract.

More information: https://www.massaflcio.org/calendar/rally-class-inc-caregivers

 

Cosecha March on NEU – Abolish ICE!

Tuesday, July 31st, 5:30-7:30pm, Ruggles Station, Boston

Northeastern University has received $2.7 million from an ongoing research contract with ICE. The agency is also listed as an employer for NEU’s student co-op program. The university benefits from and provides services to ICE, making them complicit in the agency’s criminalization and dehumanization of the immigrant community. Join Cosecha to march on NEU!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/291631811582473/

 

Jericho Walk Outside ICE Offices for Immigrant Justice

Wednesday, August 1st, 8-9am, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

The Jericho Walk is a silent interfaith prayer and act of solidarity. The walk draws inspiration from the Battle of Jericho, in which the community marched around the city of Jericho seven times, causing the city walls to fall. The Jericho Walk of today is a silent, peaceful, and prayerful walk to bring down the walls of our unjust immigration system and is open to people of all or no faiths. Please bring signs calling for just treatment of those who are caught in our broken immigration system.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/239676279994612/

 

Stop the State House From Leaving Low-Income and ELL Students Behind

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ________ from [ZIP] and Solidarity Lowell. Please speak with members of the Foundation Budget Bill conference committee on H.4741 and advocate for all four recommendations from the Foundation Budget Review Commission (FBRC) be included in the final bill. Any school funding bill that does not include every recommendation of the FBRC is not modernization, and fails to address the urgent and dire problems ELL and low-income students face. Thank you!”

More information: https://actionnetwork.org/forms/action-alert-call-your-rep-to-stop-state-house-from-leaving-low-income-and-ell-students-behind-2

 

Support Students with Dyslexia

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Senate President Karen Spilka: 617-722-1640 (if you were in Donoghue’s district)
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barbara L’Italien 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ________ from [ZIP] and Solidarity Lowell. Please support bill S.2443/H.4394, An Act Relative to Students with Dyslexia. This would provide important screenings for students with dyslexia. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/h4394

 

Tell the House to Support the Full Environmental Bill

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ________ from [ZIP] and Solidarity Lowell. Please lobby the Conference Committee to support the increasing the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to 3% so that we can reach 50% renewable energy by 2030 and be 100% renewable by 2050, and fair access to solar (incorporated as Amendment 43 to the Senate energy bill), to require MA to ensure access for low-income communities, renters, and residents of environmental justice communities. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.progressivemass.com/2018legislative-oneweek

 

 

Local

Solidarity Lowell July Meeting

Sunday, July 22, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

The monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell. Enter at the Bartlett Street entrance. Our meeting is in the chapel (come inside and take a left). On the agenda: a postcard action, group updates and announcements, an update from Immigrant Rights subcommittee, by-laws discussion, future plans, and more! All are welcome.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/647322638948698/

 

Downtown Lowell Cleanup

Saturday, July 21st, 9am-noon, Middlesex and Appleton Streets, Lowell

Help clean up two of Lowell’s notable streets. We will meet at 240 Jackson St. (across from Mill No. 5) before walking over. Gloves, bags, and trash pickers will be provided but feel free to bring your own if able. These streets in particular have been neglected by the city. The Lowell Transitional Living Center, Community Health Center, and small shops all contribute to a lot of foot traffic, and unfortunately a lot of plastics and rubbish are left behind. If you can’t stay the whole time or can only come late, that’s okay!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/872125486322144/

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

Tuesday, July 24th, 9:30-11:30am, The Java Room, 14 Littleton Rd, Chelmsford

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us! We will write lots of postcards to voters for upcoming elections in Massachusetts! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/209569313065849/

 

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

State

Call Your State Rep on Climate and Immigrant Justice

Please contact your state representative (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m _______ from [ZIP]. I’m calling because the conference committee will soon meet to discuss the final energy legislation for this year and it needs to be better. Please talk to leadership or House members of the conference committee about including the following provisions in the conference bill: increasing the Renewable Portfolio Standard to 3%, establishing low-income solar incentives, and Codifying Environmental Justice. Thank you!”

More information: https://350mass.betterfutureproject.org/call_rep?utm_campaign=climate_vigil_7_19&utm_medium=email&utm_source=betterfutureproject

 

Ask Your Reps What it Will Take to Pass the SCA

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):

Chairman Sanchez: 617-722-2990
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Senate President Harriette Chandler: 617-722-1500 (if you were in Donoghue’s district)
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barbara L’Italien 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ________ from [ZIP]. I’m stunned and deeply disappointed. At this moment in history, when the federal government is terrorizing immigrant children and their families and we have the ability to adopt the most elemental legal safeguards to help protect them, how can elected officials in Massachusetts do absolutely nothing? I don’t understand. What will it take? Are elected leaders so afraid that they are willing to abandon the most fundamental values of our democracy?  How can we say it doesn’t matter whether people are told they have legal rights? When victims of crime and violence won’t call the police for help because they fear being torn from their loved ones, how can we turn our backs instead of reassuring them? This is America. This is Massachusetts! What will it take for our state legislature to live up to our values, and not cower in the shadow of Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric?”

More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/ma-what-will-it-take?ms_aff=MA&initms_aff=MA&ms=180719_Immigration_MA&initms=180719_Immigration_MA&ms_chan=eml&initms_chan=eml

Federal

Stand With Vulnerable Kids

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hi. I’m ________ from [ZIP] and I’m calling oppose an agenda that allows federally-funded child welfare services to discriminate against qualified prospective parents. I would like you to remove the Aderholt Amendment from the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Funding Bill for Fiscal Year 2019. We should not make it harder to place vulnerable children into loving homes, nor use taxpayer dollars discriminate against our neighbors. Thank you!”

More information: http://www.hrc.org/blog/house-appropriations-republicans-adopt-a-license-to-discriminate-amendment

Local

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss: Protest Trump’s SCOTUS pick

Friday, July 13th, 6:30-8:30pm, The Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to rally against Trump’s SCOTUS pick! Bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, come to El Potro (124 Merrimack Street) to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1879460295687971/

 

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

Tuesday, July 17th, 9:30-11:30am, The Java Room, 14 Littleton Rd, Chelmsford

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us! We will write lots of postcards to voters for an upcoming election in Ohio! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/363118220880943/

Voting Rights Lawsuit Listening Session

Wednesday, July 18th, 6:30pm, LTC, 246 Market Street, Lowell

In light of the Voting Rights Act lawsuit filed against the City, these sessions give Lowell residents the chance to express their thoughts and concerns about the process of electing City Council and School Committee members. Organized by the City Council’s Sub-Committee on Election Laws, the meetings help the community consider whether the current voting system should change from the current at-large system to a district-based one, or a mix of the two.

For more information, email Mary Tauras at mtauras@ywcaoflowell.org

Downtown Lowell Clean Up

Saturday, July 21st, 9am-noon, Middlesex and Appleton Streets, Lowell

Help clean up two of Lowell’s notable streets. We will meet at 240 Jackson St. (across from Mill No. 5) before walking over. Gloves, bags, and trash pickers will be provided but feel free to bring your own if able. These streets in particular have been neglected by the city. The Lowell Transitional Living Center, Community Health Center, and small shops all contribute to a lot of foot traffic, and unfortunately a lot of plastics and rubbish are left behind. If you can’t stay the whole time or can only come late, that’s okay!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/872125486322144/

 

Solidarity Lowell July Meeting

Sunday, July 22, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

The monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell. Enter at the Bartlett Street entrance. Our meeting is in the chapel (come inside and take a left). On the agenda: a postcard action, group updates and announcements, an update from Immigrant Rights subcommittee, and more! All are welcome.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/647322638948698/

Help Displaced Puerto Rican Families Find Housing

After six months living in FEMA-funded motels – and moving motel locations frequently – many of the 65+ FEMA-registered families who relocated to Greater Lowell after Hurricane Maria still need to find permanent housing. If you have housing information and opportunities to share or would like to support families in other ways, please email Amada Gregory atagregory@ywcaoflowell.org or call (978) 710-9748.

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

State

Modernize the Foundation Budget Formula NOW!

Thursday, July 12th, 1-4pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Our Foundation Budget formula was written in 1993, and it does not reflect the current needs of our schools and students. It must be updated!  Join us in demanding the State House follow through on the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review Commission and update the Foundation Budget formula. This popular piece of legislation passed unanimously in the state Senate and has a majority of support in the House.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/452941225148468/

 

Stop the State House from Leaving Low-Income and ELL Students Behind

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

Senate President Harriette Chandler: 617-722-1500 (if you were in Donoghue’s district)
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barbara L’Italien 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ______ from [ZIP code]. Please support Representative Vega’s amendment to H.4730 including recommendations from the FBRC on low-income and ELL students. Any school funding bill that does not include every recommendation of the Foundation Budget Review Commission (FBRC) is not modernization, and fails to address the urgent and dire problems ELL and low-income students face. House leaders have decided Black and Brown students are not worth investing in by leaving out the two most important racial justice fixes for school funding. They are deciding to leave some students behind. I hope you will listen to constituents like myself and will support Rep. Vega’s amendment to the Foundation Budget bill (H.4730) to include recommendations from the FBRC on low-income and ELL students. Thank you!”

More information: https://actionnetwork.org/forms/action-alert-call-your-rep-to-stop-state-house-from-leaving-low-income-and-ell-students-behind/

 

Pass Simple Protections for Immigrants

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

Senate President Harriette Chandler: 617-722-1500 (if you were in Donoghue’s district)
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barbara L’Italien 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ______ from [ZIP]. Please don’t remove basic legal protections for immigrants in the budget. Make sure that Massachusetts resources are used to fight crime and keep local communities safe, not to assist federal deportation and family separation; and guarantee that people in local custody are informed about their rights. Please make sure these protections end up in the final 2019 budget. Thank you!”

More information: https://aclum.org/support-simple-immigrant-protections/

Federal

Oppose a Citizenship Question in the 2020 Census

Submit your comment to the link below this week!

This is an especially important action if your citizenship status is secure. People with vulnerable citizenship are at greater risk of targeting by the current administration. Use your privilege to support our neighbors.

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m _______ from [ZIP]. I support an accurate census count, increased participation, accurate dispersal of funding, and fair congressional representation. I oppose the citizenship question on the 2020 census form. I also oppose inadequate testing of added questions. I am against sharing citizenship data with National Conference of State Legislatures. I also do not support changes to Public Law 94-171 Redistricting Data File. Thank you!”

Submit your comment here: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/06/08/2018-12365/proposed-information-collection-comment-request-2020-census

Local

Immigrant Rights Subcommittee Meeting

Monday, July 9, 6:30-8pm, Eliot Presbyterian Church, 273 Summer Street, Lowell

On the agenda: follow up on outreach, status of the Safe Communities amendment to the budget, selection of new Police Chief, planning the cultural exchange potluck, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/215751412386710/

Rally for Good Jobs and Quality Care

Monday, July 9th, noon, 1 Parker Street, Lawrence, MA 01843

SEIU Local 509 members at CLASS Inc. are fighting for a fair contract to improve the care of people with disabilities in our communities. Low wages and high turnover make it extremely difficult to serve individuals at CLASS. That’s why direct care workers at CLASS are set to strike on Monday, July 9th. We need your support on the picket line during a 5-day strike beginning Monday, July 9.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2110191529236859/

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

Tuesday, July 10th, 9:30-11:30am, The Java Room, 14 Littleton Rd, Chelmsford

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us! We will write lots of postcards to voters for an upcoming election in Ohio! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/236261693643407/

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss – July

Friday, July 13th, 6:30-8:30pm, The Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to rally against the atrocities of the month! Bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, come to El Potro (124 Merrimack Street) to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week!All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1879460295687971/

Support the Strikers from National Steel Workers

Date and time TBD, National Grid, 775 Dutton Street, Lowell

National Grid workers, organized into United Steel Workers 12012-4 have been locked out since Monday, June 25th. Let’s find a date stand with them, support their efforts, and bring some water and food. Please vote in the poll below. (You are of course welcome to visit the picketers at any time on your own as well. They are out there from 6am-7pm weekdays.)

Please vote in the poll here by MONDAY the 9th: https://doodle.com/poll/7n2vebpuswwmma7s (Please note that this is a new poll and if you participated in last week’s, please do this one as well)

More information: http://www.lowellsun.com/breakingnews/ci_31970337/national-grid-lockout-lowell-picket-enter-second-day

Volunteer at Lowell Listening Sessions

Lowell Alliance is seeking volunteers to get the word out ahead of the upcoming listening sessions for residents to give feedback about local governance, elections, and the voting rights lawsuit. It’s important for residents to be informed about this issue because they have a high chance in affecting the outcome by giving their feedback. Our hopes are that more engagement will translate to local leaders running for local office and voters from diverse communities feeling represented. The listening sessions are on July 18th and 25th and August 1st (all Wednesdays) at 6:30pm. If you have any interest in helping or know others who might be interested, please email Mary Tauras at mtauras@ywcaoflowell.org

More information: mtauras@ywcaoflowell.org

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

Save the Date: Solidarity Lowell July Meeting

Sunday, July 22, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/647322638948698/

State

Rally to Pass 4 Key Protections

Tuesday, July 10th, 11:30am-1:30pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

We have rallied, made calls, sent emails and visited our legislators – and we need to keep going because our job is not done! The FY2019 State Budget has not yet been released. It must include the 4 Key Protections: 1. No police inquiries about immigration status. 2. Stop collaboration agreements with ICE. 3. Provide basic due process protections. 4. Refuse to contribute to any discriminatory registry. We will meet outside on the State House steps and hear from a few of our leaders. We will then enter through the Bowdoin St entrance (around the side – not the Hooker Entrance) and march to the area outside of the House Chamber (3rd floor). We plan to be assembled there by 12:30 PM.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/275339706361344/

Outdated: Modernize the Foundation Budget Formula NOW!

Thursday, July 12th, 1-4pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Our Foundation Budget formula was written in 1993, and it does not reflect the current needs of our schools and students. It must be updated!  Join us in demanding the State House follow through on the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review Commission and update the Foundation Budget formula. This popular piece of legislation passed unanimously in the state Senate and has a majority of support in the House.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/452941225148468/

Make Sure Your Rep Has Signed the Pledge for Environmental Justice

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

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ________ from (ZIP code). Please take the Mass Power Forward Policy Pledge for Climate, Clean Energy, and Environmental Justice. This means supporting the following bills: H2700 (50% renewable energy by 2030 with no less than a 3% increase in our RPS), H3396 (give equitable access of solar power to environmental justice communities), H2913 (codify environmental justice into law), H3400 (no subsidies for gas pipelines and reform our DPU to ensure new fossil fuel infrastructure is evaluated for climate change and community impacts), and H2149 (create a detailed plan for achieving our 80% global warming pollution reductions by 2050). Thank you!”

More information: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bO-T5dVo3LPvL7Z8m1qjaYyJ4hqPZ2gJb1bsEZ4ezko/edit?usp=sharing

Pass Automatic Voter Registration

Please contact your state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):

Senate President Harriette Chandler: 617-722-1500 (if you were in Donoghue’s district)
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barbara L’Italien 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m ________ from (ZIP code). Access to the ballot box is a fundamental democratic right, yet today, nearly 700,000 eligible voters in Massachusetts are not registered to vote. Please support Automatic Voter Registration (AVR) and urge Senate President Chandler to bring it to a vote. The legislation will make voter registration more efficient, increase ballot access, and improve the accuracy and security of our voting rolls by directing Massachusetts to join the Electronic Registration Information Center. The House recently passed Automatic Voter Registration (H.4671), similar to legislation filed by Senator Creem. Please take the next step and pass AVR as soon as possible. Thank you!”

More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/ma-senate-avr?ms_aff=MA&initms_aff=MA&ms=180703_Voting+Rights_MA&initms=180703_Voting+Rights_MA&ms_chan=eml&initms_chan=eml

Federal

Stand with Seniors, Poor Families, and People with Disabilities

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hi. I’m ______, from [ZIP] and don’t understand why congressional Republicans are shredding the social safety net for people in need. Shoring up a federal deficit should never come at the expense of our country’s most vulnerable. Please oppose cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and SNAP in the 2019 House Budget. Thank you.”

More information: http://thehill.com/homenews/house/393551-house-panel-approves-belated-2019-budget

Local

Families Belong Together!

Saturday, June 30th (see location and times below with links to RSVP)

Donald Trump and his administration have cruelly separated thousands of children from their families. Now they’re jailing families — and they haven’t yet reunified the families already brutally torn apart. But we won’t allow it to continue. On June 30, we’re rallying around the country to tell Donald Trump and his administration to permanently end the separation of kids from their parents. End family internment camps. End the “zero-humanity” policy that created this crisis. And reunify the children with their parents. Send a clear message to Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress: Families Belong Together!

Nashua: 11am, Greeley Park Bandshell, Nashua, NH 03064
https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/20104/signup/?akid=&zip=&source=

Haverhill: 11am, White’s Corner,  in front of Market Basket Plaza Haverhill, MA 01830
https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/20019/signup/?akid=&zip=&source=

Andover: 10am, Intersection of rt. 133 and rt. 28 (Shawsheen Square), Andover, MA 01810
https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/20573/signup/?source=&s=

Boston: Noon, Boston City Hall, Boston, MA 02201
https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/19872/signup/?akid=&zip=&source=

More information and events: https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/search/

 

Detention is Separaton: Shut Down ICE!

Saturday, June 30th, 4-7pm, Wellington Common, Boston

Let’s shut down South Bay County Jail and Detention Center to demand an end to any and all cooperation with ICE. At the border, we have seen the real face of hate. Children are being lost and abused, parents are committing suicide and through all this the perpetrators are bragging about their atrocities. We need you to be on the right side of history and fight with us. We will meet at Wellington Common Park across from the Mass Ave. T Station to march to South Bay.

More information: https://goo.gl/forms/vRKjZJ9Q9ejg5y5Y2

 

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

Tuesday, July 3rd, 9:30-11:30am, The Java Room, 14 Littleton Rd, Chelmsford

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us! We will write lots of postcards to voters for an upcoming election in Ohio! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/165060527687092/

Support the Strikers from National Steel Workers

Date and time TBD, National Grid, 775 Dutton Street, Lowell

National Grid workers, organized into United Steel Workers 12012-4 have been locked out since Monday, June 25th. Let’s find a date stand with them, support their efforts, and bring some water and food. Please vote in the poll below. (You are of course welcome to visit the picketers at any time on your own as well. They are out there from 6am-7pm weekdays.)

Please vote in the poll here: https://doodle.com/poll/6nuqrwpxv8ei5wux

More information: http://www.lowellsun.com/breakingnews/ci_31970337/national-grid-lockout-lowell-picket-enter-second-day

 

 

Volunteer to Get the Word Out About Lowell Listening Sessions

Lowell Alliance is seeking volunteers to get the word out ahead of the upcoming listening sessions for residents to give feedback about local governance, elections, and the voting rights lawsuit. It’s important for residents to be informed about this issue because they have a high chance in affecting the outcome by giving their feedback. Our hopes are that more engagement will translate to local leaders running for local office and voters from diverse communities feeling represented. The listening sessions are on July 18th and 25th and August 1st (all Wednesdays) at 6:30pm. If you have any interest in helping or know others who might be interested, please email Mary Tauras at mtauras@ywcaoflowell.org

More information: mtauras@ywcaoflowell.org
 

 

Save the Date: Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss – July

Friday, July 13th, 6:30-8:30pm, The Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to rally against the atrocities of the month! Bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, come to El Potro (124 Merrimack Street) to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week!All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1879460295687971/

 

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

Save the Date: Solidarity Lowell July Meeting

Sunday, July 22, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/647322638948698/

 

State

Stand Up for Immigrant Families

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

Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barbara L’Italien 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m  ____________ from (City and ZIP code). I’m shocked and heartbroken by what’s happening to immigrant families – not just at the border, but in Massachusetts. The Trump administration is tearing parents and children apart just to send a message, and that’s immoral. The Safe Communities Act is very important to me. Please send a letter to Speaker DeLeo and Chairman Sanchez in support of the Safe Communities Act provisions passed in the Senate budget in the ultimate Conference Committee report. Thank you!”

More information: https://mailchi.mp/b2d35eeabff7/action-alert-final-push-for-budget-provisions-social-media-campaign?e=13d08e9dc9

Federal

Defund DHS

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m _______ from _______, Massachusetts. Do not use my taxpayer money to fund the Department of Homeland Security as it continues to detain families, abuse immigrant children, and unleash ICE to terrorize communities. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.aclu.org/issues/immigrants-rights/call-senators-defund-dhs

 

Local Solidarity Lowell General Meeting! June 24th, 5:30 pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St. Lowell https://www.facebook.com/events/677819839216059/ Families Belong Together! – Nashua, Haverhill The biggest stories this week concern the human rights violations being perpetrated in the name of our nation (nothing new for those in the know). The day is June 30th regardless of whether or not you can attend a meeting in Nashua or Haverhill or Boston (see State below). Please RSVP to any event if you plan on attending! Families Belong Together – Nashua (note – peaceful rally) Saturday, June 30th at 11am Greeley Park Bandshell Nashua, NH 03064 RSVP: https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/20104/signup/?akid=&zip=&source= ~~~ Rally Against Family Separation Saturday, June 30th at 11am White’s Corner, Downtown Haverhill, in front of Market Basket Plaza Haverhill, MA 01830 RSVP: https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/20019/signup/?akid=&zip=&source= ~~~ A wider search link, for your friends in other parts of the state: https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/search/ LTLC Outreach You can also help be a social media ambassador for the Lowell Transitional Living Center! The only requirement is to be on Facebook and want to make a difference. They provide post ideas and you utilize your network to spread their reach and motivate others to make gifts to the LTLC. http://ltlc.org/call-for-summer-social-media-ambassadors/ Acre Neighborhood Meeting Wed., June 20, 6:00 p.m., North Common Amphitheatre, 413 Fletcher St. ACTION is the neighborhood group for the Acre, connected to Coalition for a Better Acre. If you’re an Acre resident, come meet other neighbors and find out more about what’s going on in your neighborhood! More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/148256662704543/ Listening Session For New Lowell PD Supt. w/ City Mgr Donoghue Wednesday, June 27, 6:00-7:30 p.m., Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell 01854 The City of Lowell is in the process of selecting a new Superintendent of the Lowell Police. This is a very important position that affects the entire city of Lowell and beyond. Manager Donoghue has had meetings with key community groups and leaders in order to hear what is important to them and what qualities they would like to see in the new chief. She will be holding a Listening Session where all members of the general public may attend to give input as well. More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/872555012932287/ A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired If the firing happens before 2 pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell Nobody is above the law! Donald Trump is publicly considering firing special counsel Robert Mueller. This would be a constitutional crisis for our country. Our response in the minutes and hours following a power grab will dictate what happens next, which is why an immediate response is imperative. Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830 Help with Sanctuary Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/(please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). More information and to sign up for training: marissa@solidaritylowell.com State Families Belong Together! – Boston We’re protesting. The narrative is, we’re marching. Saturday, June 30th at Noon Boston City Hall Boston, MA 02201 RSVP: https://act.moveon.org/event/families-belong-together/19872/signup/?akid=&zip=&source= Foster Care Organization Ascentira is a service based out of Worcester that specializes in foster care for unaccompanied refugee minors. They provide cultural and linguistic support for any potential foster parents. For more information: https://www.ascentria.org/our-services/unaccompanied-refugee-minors Progressive Mass Statewide Hubdialer Days Every Thursday, 6:30pm, from home Make calls on behalf of Raise Up Massachusetts for our campaigns for Paid Family and Medical Leave and a $15 Minimum Wage! We are calling people who signed our petitions for these issues and likely voters, offering to patch them through to their legislators. That means that while you’re on the phone, you can offer to connect the person you’re speaking with directly to their legislator’s office so that they can ask them to support and prioritize these important pieces of legislation. HubDialer includes a script, a place to record the caller’s response, as well as a button to patch them through! Sign up here: http://action.raiseupma.org/page/s/hubdialer Automatic Voter Registration Call your state rep to support Automatic Voter Registration (H. 4320)! Sample script: “Hi, my name is _______ from ________ and Solidarity Lowell. I am calling to ask Representative [NAME] to sign onto H. 4320, which would help modernize and update our voter records.” Please contact your state representative (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator): Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263 – Note: Rep. Golden already said yes, so you can thank him and ask him to keep pushing for it! Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520 Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460 – Note: Rep. Mom already said yes, so you can thank him and ask him to keep pushing for it! Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380 Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460 Federal Centralized Immigrant Aid List It’s heavy on it this week because of how outright massive this issue is. The fine folks at Slate compiled a list of all organizations fighting for immigrant families – RAICES, with more information below, is also accepting donations at their page. https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2018/06/how-you-can-fight-family-separation-at-the-border.html RAICES Webinar Outraged by family separation? You can do something to help. Tune in to our webinar Thurs June 21 2-3pm CT for info on how to meaningfully support immigrants in your community. https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/1488797885 or Dial 773-231-9226, the meeting ID is 1488797885 Legal Representation for Youth Money is good – people are better. The LEAF Project funds universal representation for unaccompanied children. They’re accepting donations because children with representation are five times more likely to find success in their case. Donate below! https://actionnetwork.org/fundraising/leafund Contact Congress Thank your member of congress for speaking out (and provide a reminder to keep speaking out) about the immigrant family separation crisis Representatives Niki Tsongas (MA-03) and Seth Moulton (MA-06) were among 108 members of Congress urging the Subcommittee on Homeland Security on Appropriations to restrict the Department of Homeland Security’s ability to separate families at the border. Their letter responds to the Trump administration’s inhumane policy of separating children from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border. Please thank them for speaking out and encourage them to lead on this issue. Sample script: “Hello, my name is ________ from ________ and Solidarity Lowell. Thank you for speaking out against the Trump administration’s inhumane policy of separating children from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border and in favor of restricting the DHS. Please continue to speak out and take leadership on this issue. Thank you.” Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101 Seth Moulton: 978-531-1669

Local

Acrefest and Resource Fair
North Common Park, 413 Fletcher Street, Lowell
Solidarity Lowell will be tabling at Acrefest, put on by Coalition for a Better Acre and ACTION! Please join us for fun, resources, a free cookout, and getting the word out about Solidarity Lowell!
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1938377309577671/

CD3 Nonpartisan Congressional Debate
Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at 6:00 pm at Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St entrance, Lowell
Submit your questions here: https://goo.gl/forms/Wen29qZZMa5JHYkS2
Candidates running for the third Congressional District will come together to discuss their vision. Moderator: Dr. Marianela Rivera, Vice Chair of the Lawrence School Committee
More information at: https://www.facebook.com/events/169636493880460/

Demonstrate, Drink and Discuss
Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event, as we peacefully protest against the separation of immigrant families at the border!
6:30pm– Join us at the island in front of City Hall for the protest. Bring signs or hold one of ours.
7:30pm– After the demonstration, come to Viet Thai (368 Merrimack Street) to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1652525748200164/

Postcards for Progress, June Edition
Saturday, June 16th, 11AM – 1PM at Gallery Z, 167 Market St. in Lowell.
After a long hiatus, Saturday postcarding is back! We’ll be writing to our elected officials and directly to voters! Open to all who want to help with progressive causes. See you then!
https://www.facebook.com/events/171365516908919/

Kathleen Reticker Forum for Children and Families
Sunday, June 10, 2018 at 2:00PM, at the Lowell High School Auditorium, 50 Father Morrissette Blvd.
Hear 11 of the candidates for the 3rd Congressional District answer questions in a moderated forum regarding vital issues facing children and families.
For more information: https://www.kathyretickerforum.org/

Public Meeting: Election Lawsuit Listening Session
Wednesday, June 13, 2018 AT 6:30PM at the Sullivan School, 150 Draper St., Lowell, MA
The Lowell City Council Ad-Hoc Sub-Committee on Election Laws (City Councilors Vesna Nuon, Edward Kennedy, and John Leahy) is holding a public meeting to listen to the thoughts, ideas, concerns of residents with the current election laws and process in the City, in light of the public lawsuit which is currently pending. This meeting is part of a series of meetings in different neighborhoods of Lowell.
For more information contact City Councilors Vesna Nuon, Edward Kennedy, and/or John Leahy at https://www.lowellma.gov/FormCenter/Contact-the-City-Council-5/City-Council-Contact-Form-45

19th Annual African Festival Lowell
Saturday, June 16th, 11:00am-7:00 pm, Sampas Pavilion, 500 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell
It’s a fun family festival that features many facets of the African Continental culture and its Community in the USA. All welcome!
For more information: http://www.africanfestivallowell.org/festival-flyer.html

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

State Freedom for All Public Education Canvas Saturday, June 9, 2018 • 10:00 am – 3:00 pm, Lowell Help us speak to voters about the need to defend transgender protections this November! RSVP at https://secure.freedomma.org/page/s/merrimack-pb Progressive Mass Statewide HubDialer Days Every Thursday, 6:30pm, from home Make calls on behalf of Raise Up Massachusetts for our campaigns for Paid Family and Medical Leave and a $15 Minimum Wage! We are calling people who signed our petitions for these issues and likely voters, offering to patch them through to their legislators. That means that while you’re on the phone, you can offer to connect the person you’re speaking with directly to their legislator’s office so that they can ask them to support and prioritize these important pieces of legislation. HubDialer includes a script, a place to record the caller’s response, as well as a button to patch them through! Sign up here: http://action.raiseupma.org/page/s/hubdialer Federal Support LGBTQ Rights with the Equality Act The Supreme Court’s recent narrow ruling in the Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado case reversed a lower court ruling in favor of a gay plaintiff who was refused service because of their sexual orientation. However, the Court did NOT grant public businesses the right to discriminate against LGBTQ customers more broadly. The continued uncertainty over LGBTQ customers’ rights makes it more important than ever that Congress pass the Equality Act. While the Equality Act has been introduced in the past, it was filed in 2017 with unprecedented support in both the House and the Senate. We must capitalize on this momentum to secure national-level protections for LGBTQ people. Call Rep. Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101 Sample script: Hi, my name is [NAME] and I’m a constituent from Lowell. I’m calling to urge Rep. Niki Tsongas to support [S.1006 / H.R. 2282], the Equality Act of 2017. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other queer people still face significant violence and discrimination at the workplace, in the housing market, and in everyday interactions. Civil rights protections must be expanded to include gender identity and sexual orientation as protected characteristics. OPTIONAL: Add a personal story or experience about why this issue is important to you. Thank you for your time and attention. Push Back on the Political Cancellation of August Recess Sen. McConnell is most likely looking to cut a deal with the Democratic Senators up for reelection: vote yes on a long list of Trump’s judicial nominees, and you can get your recess back to campaign. Using our judiciary system for political gamesmanship is shameful. Senators must take their time to properly vet nominees and not simply rubber stamp them. Canceling August Recess is also unfair to constituents who deserve the opportunity to meet with and be heard by their Senators. Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170 Edward Markey: 617-565-8519 Sample script: I’m calling to express my disapproval of McConnell’s political cancellation of August Recess. I ask that [SEN NAME] refuse to cut any deal helping McConnell confirm more unqualified and unfit judicial nominees in exchange for a full August Recess. Thank you for your time and attention.

Local

City of Lowell Election Lawsuit Community Meeting

Wednesday, May 30th, 6:30-8:00pm, CMAA – Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, 465 School Street, Lowell

Vice Mayor Vesna Nuon, and other Councilors will discuss with community members about the current voting rights lawsuit between community plaintiffs and the City of Lowell.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/558771021174319/

LDCC Freedom For All Presentation

Thursday, May 31st, 7:00-8:30pm, Pollard Memorial Library, 401 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Field Organizer Zachary Stinchfield will speak on the proposed ballot referendum which would have the effect of rolling back rights of our transgender fellow Bay Staters. This group is organizing and working hard to make sure that Massachusetts does not pass a ballot initiative this November that would specifically deny the civil rights of a specific group of people, in this case transgender people. Once one group of people are legally denied equal rights and protections under the law, it becomes easier to move on to another group.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/592376707799681/

3rd Annual Greater Lowell Pride Parade and Concert

Saturday, June 2nd, 12:00-5:00pm, JFK Plaza, 50 Arcand Street, Lowell

Join us to celebrate, support, and express our PRIDE for the LGBTQ Community in the Greater Lowell area. Come march in the parade as part of Solidarity Lowell. Line-up begins at 11:00am in front of Lowell Memorial Auditorium on Merrimack Street. Contact Amy Baranoski amy@solidaritylowell.com or Scott Richards scott@solidaritylowell.com if you would like to join in.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1763043333751919/
A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

State Thank your Representatives for Voting in Favor of the ERPO/Red Flag Bill The Massachusetts legislature has passed H.4517, a bill that allows for the temporary removal of firearms from people who are considered “high risk.” Call the following Representatives who voted in favor of this common sense bill that will help make our communities safer. Please contact your state representative (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator): Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263 Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520 Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460 Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460 Rep. Marc Lombardo 617-722-2460 Note: Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380 voted AGAINST the bill – If you’re her constituent, please express your disapproval! Support the Poor People’s Campaign at the State House Every Monday for the next four weeks The Poor People’s Campaign is launching 40 days of action that will include rallies, education and organizing, cultural arts events, nonviolent civil disobedience, and fusion coalition building in at least forty-one states. There will be five Monday actions at the State House in Boston each with a different theme. Monday actions will begin at 2 pm with a rally followed by optional non-violent direct action. RSVP here: https://actionnetwork.org/events/may-14-boston Progressive Mass Statewide HubDialer Days Every Thursday, 6:30pm, from home Make calls on behalf of Raise Up Massachusetts for our campaigns for Paid Family and Medical Leave and a $15 Minimum Wage! We are calling people who signed our petitions for these issues and likely voters, offering to patch them through to their legislators. That means that while you’re on the phone, you can offer to connect the person you’re speaking with directly to their legislator’s office so that they can ask them to support and prioritize these important pieces of legislation. HubDialer includes a script, a place to record the caller’s response, as well as a button to patch them through! Sign up here: http://action.raiseupma.org/page/s/hubdialer   Federal Restore Net Neutrality Protections Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101 Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from _______ and Solidarity Lowell. I urge you to use the Congressional Review Act to reverse the Federal Communication Commission’s decision to dismantle net neutrality. Four out of five Americans want net neutrality protections. Rolling back net neutrality favors major corporations’ interests over the will of the people – and our free speech rights. The Senate has already voted to protect net neutrality. Now, it’s up to the House to stand with the people, too. I call on you to represent your constituents and use the Congressional Review Act to save our free, fair, and open internet. Thank you!” More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/save-net-neutrality Stand with Families at the Mexican Border Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170 Edward Markey: 617-565-8519 Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101 Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from ______ and Solidarity Lowell. I am outraged at the inhumane practice of separating children from parents at the border—including those legally seeking asylum protection. Please do everything in your power to stop this practice that hurts children. Thank you!” More information: https://action.aclu.org/petition/separating-families

Local

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss: Raise Up!

Friday, May 18th, 6:30-8:30pm, The Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! Our theme this month is Raise Up Massachusetts’ ballot questions for $15/hour minimum wage and paid family/medical leave. We will have signs for you to hold, or bring your own. We will also have the petitions for people to sign to help get these questions on the November ballot. At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to rally in support of $15 minimum wage and paid family/medical leave. Then at 7:30pm, come to Sizzling Kitchen (478 Merrimack Street) to have some food and/or drinks and discuss the events of the week. All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/151094442400936/

Solidarity Lowell May Meeting

Sunday, May 20th, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

The monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell. On the agenda this month: an update from Immigrant Rights subcommittee, Marisa Shea speaking about a coalition against the Lowell natural gas pipeline, a followup to the Incorruptibles training including how to build a coalition for progressive causes, Raise Up petitions, a postcard action, and more! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/218192872100942/

 

Meet with Rady Mom about Raise Up!

Tuesday, May 22, 3:30pm, Rady Mom’s office, 2 Pine Street, Lowell

Merrimack Valley Project and partners have confirmed this meeting and are hoping to bring a handful of leaders from his home district. Currently, Representative Mom is not as supportive as we need him to be on the economic justice issues of paid family and medical leave and an increased minimum wage so we are hoping to use next Tuesday’s meeting to put public pressure on him to commit to those issues.

Please RSVP to marissa@solidaritylowell.com

 

Public Meeting: Election Lawsuit Listening Session

Wednesday, May 23, 6-8:30pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway Street, Lowell

The Lowell City Council Ad-Hoc Sub-Committee on Election Laws (City Councilors Vesna Nuon, Edward Kennedy, and John Leahy) is holding a public meeting to listen to the thoughts, ideas, concerns of residents with the current election laws and process in the City, in light of the public lawsuit which is currently pending.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/246363005920339/

 

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

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

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

State Support the Poor People’s Campaign at the State House Every Monday for the next four weeks The Poor People’s Campaign is launching 40 days of action that will include rallies, education and organizing, cultural arts events, nonviolent civil disobedience, and fusion coalition building in at least forty-one states. There will be five Monday actions at the State House in Boston each with a different theme. Monday actions will begin at 2 pm with a rally followed by optional non-violent direct action. RSVP here: https://actionnetwork.org/events/may-14-boston Progressive Mass Statewide HubDialer Days Every Thursday, 6:30pm, from home Make calls on behalf of Raise Up Massachusetts for our campaigns for Paid Family and Medical Leave and a $15 Minimum Wage! We are calling people who signed our petitions for these issues and likely voters, offering to patch them through to their legislators. That means that while you’re on the phone, you can offer to connect the person you’re speaking with directly to their legislator’s office so that they can ask them to support and prioritize these important pieces of legislation. HubDialer includes a script, a place to record the caller’s response, as well as a button to patch them through! Sign up here: http://action.raiseupma.org/page/s/hubdialer     Stand Up for Our Immigrant Communities Please contact your state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator): Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572 Sen. Barbara L’Italien 617-722-1612 Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120 Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from _______, Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell. Please co-sponsor Senate Budget Amendment #1147 (Eldridge) to safeguard the rights of immigrant residents in Massachusetts and please oppose Amendment #1136 (Fattman). Amendment #1147 would ensure that police do not ask about immigration status in routine interactions, inform people about their basic rights regarding immigration enforcement – including the right to talk with a lawyer, prohibit “287(g)” agreements between sheriffs and ICE, and say no to any discriminatory registry based on religion or national origin. Thank you!” More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/stand-our-immigrant-communities Federal Restore Net Neutrality Protections Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101 Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from _______ and Solidarity Lowell. I urge you to use the Congressional Review Act to reverse the Federal Communication Commission’s decision to dismantle net neutrality. Four out of five Americans want net neutrality protections. Rolling back net neutrality favors major corporations’ interests over the will of the people – and our free speech rights. The Senate has already voted to protect net neutrality. Now, it’s up to the House to stand with the people, too. I call on you to represent your constituents and use the Congressional Review Act to save our free, fair, and open internet. Thank you!” More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/save-net-neutrality   Stand with Families at the Mexican Border Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170 Edward Markey: 617-565-8519 Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101 Sample Script: “Hello, I’m ______ from ______ and Solidarity Lowell. I am outraged at the inhumane practice of separating children from parents at the border—including those legally seeking asylum protection. Please do everything in your power to stop this practice that hurts children. Thank you!” More information: https://action.aclu.org/petition/separating-families