Rapid Response Team

25
Jul
2020

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR JULY 18, 2020

 

SOLIDARITY LOWELL
RAPID RESPONSE TEAM
ACTION LIST FOR JULY 18, 2020
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.

BE CAREFUL OUT THERE FOR THE SAFETY OF YOURSELF AND EVERYONE YOU KNOW!

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Save the Date – Solidarity Lowell General Meeting 

July 26, 5:30-7pm
Via Zoom
Topic: Housing

Local Events and Actions

Moody Street Cleanup

Saturday, July 18, 9am-12pm
Lowell Canalwaters Cleaners
Wear a mask and spread out.
https://www.facebook.com/events/2416868651903759/

Phonebank for our Endorsed Candidate Lisa Arnold

Saturday, July 18 1-4pm
Thursday, July 23 6-9pm
Repeat every Saturday and Thursday
Join our phonebank for Lisa Arnold, who is running for State Rep in the 17th Middlesex district. No special equipment or software is required, just a computer with microphone and speakers (though a headset is helpful).
RSVP to volunteer@lisaforstaterep.com to sign up!

The Farm Market at Mill No. 5

Sunday, July 19, 11am-2pm
250 Jackson St, Lowell
Building now open with safety rules, including masks and social distancing.
https://www.facebook.com/thefarmmarket/

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, July 28, 6:30pm
At the beginning of the emergency, the City Council voted to meet every 2 weeks to facilitate safe distancing. City Hall is closed to the public. Watch the meeting on LTC (Channel 99 or https://www.ltc.org/watch/channel-99/). Members wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item shall register to speak in advance by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that they may be conferenced in to the meeting. Email address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If no access to email you may contact City Clerk at 978-674-4161.
The agenda will be posted at http://lowellma.gov/agendacenter by the Friday before, July 24.

State-Level Actions and Events

Massachusetts Poor People’s Campaign Statewide meeting

Thursday, July 23, 7-8:15pm
https://tinyurl.com/y93ypmum
The Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival is uniting people across Massachusetts to challenge the evils of systemic racism, poverty, the war economy, ecological devastation and the nation’s distorted morality of religious nationalism.
Email massachusetts@poorpeoplescampaign.org to get involved!

Support Legislative Priorities of Merrimack Valley Project

1. The Work and Family Mobility Act (House Bill 3012, Senate Bill 2061)
The Work and Family Mobility Act, or Drivers’ License Bill, would provide access for undocumented immigrants to acquire a Massachusetts drivers license. This bill is currently being considered in the Senate Ways and Means Committee and MVP is asking all legislators to ask that Senate President Karen Spilka bring the bill to the floor for a vote. (Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov)

2. Emergency Paid Sick Time (House Bill 5039, Senate Bill 2918)
As part of the Raise Up Massachusetts economic justice statewide coalition, MVP is supporting this bill that would provide 2 weeks of emergency paid sick leave for those not covered by the federal bill that came out this spring,. asking all Valley legislators to support the bill, which is currently being considered along with other bills directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

3. 2021 Fiscal Year Funding for Wheels of Hope
Lastly, MVP is asking all Valley legislators to commit to supporting Wheels of Hope, their regional pilot transportation program that provided over 100 free rides to treatment and rehabilitation centers throughout the state. This program was funded by a $150,000 budget amendment last year and the same amount is requested to relaunch the program for a second year.

Please contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden@mahouse.gov 617-722-2263
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. David Nangle David.Nangle@mahouse.gov 617-722-2520
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov 617-722-1572

Ongoing Solidarity Lowell Initiatives

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius
Marius is the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring. With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month.
Can you chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small! We are also looking for folks who are interested in helping in an ongoing basis, in any of these three committees: Legal, Fundraising, and Housing. If you’re interested, please email mvisn@solidaritylowell.com
Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

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

For more events not listed here, visit the full Events calendar: http://solidaritylowell.com/events/

For volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer page: http://solidaritylowell.com/volunteer-opportunities/

View the notes from our June meeting here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qZxKoUKKGysLcrQ9dNPDe–YW2QJn4b0vZSK38cwIyk/edit?usp=sharing

Recording of our June meeting:
https://youtu.be/-Wk6Mm3EEpo

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

Posted by Caroline Snow in Rapid Response Team
13
Jul
2020

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR JULY 11th

RAPID RESPONSE CITY COUNCIL REPORT FOR JULY 11, 2020

The Lowell City Council’s last meeting was held on June 23. The minutes of this meeting are available here:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/13063…

Big, big, big meeting coming up Tuesday, July 14 at 6:30 PM! Last month, Solidarity Lowell joined numerous other organizations and individuals in Lowell in signing the following letter to the City Council, calling on them to declare racism a public health crisis and commit Lowell to taking steps to improve racial justice and equal opportunity in our city:
https://drive.google.com/…/1Pnact_7N1GuuecpjaF42RKcYD8…/view

On Tuesday, the Council will consider two motions by Mayor John Leahy to implement the letter’s recommendations. Other related motions, including an apparent alternate motion that does not declare a public health crisis and does not commit the City to taking any action, will also be considered.

Solidarity Lowell members are urged to contact their councilors to urge them to adopt the Mayor Leahy’s motions, or to sign up to speak via telephone to the City Council meeting.

Lowell’s DEI Consortium (DEI), the prime movers behind the letter, is hosting a rally in support on JFK Plaza at 4:30 on Tueday:
https://www.facebook.com/events/283610342873173/

Pursuant to Governor Baker’s Emergency Order modifying the State’s Open Meeting Law issued March 12, 2020, this meeting is being held by remote participation. Members of the public wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item shall register to speak in advance by sending email to City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that you may be conferenced in to the meeting. Email address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If no access to email you may contact City Clerk at 978-674-4161. Tuesday’s meeting will once again be held over Zoom. Meetings are available for viewing on LTC channel 99, or on demand through the LTC website: https://www.ltc.org/watch/channel-99/city-council-on-demand/

The complete agenda for the meeting is available here:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCen…/…/Agenda/_07142020-1628…

Racial Justice

Mayor John Leahy is sponsoring the two major motions, which have the public support of Councilors Drinkwater and Nuon:
11.11 M. Leahy – Req. City Council Vote To Assert That Racism Is A Public Health Crisis Affecting The Health, Safety And Well-Being Of Residents In The City Of Lowell, And To Affirm Our Commitment To Efforts Aimed At Understanding, Addressing, And Dismantling Racism In All Its Forms; And To Further Request That The City Manager Direct The Law Department To Draft A Resolution Formally Declaring Racism To Be A Public Health Crisis In The City Of Lowell.

11.12 M. Leahy – Req. City Council Vote To Establish A Mayor’s Task Force On Diversity, Equity And Inclusion That Will Conduct A Thorough Review Of City Policies And Inequities In Community Systems; Will Solicit Input From Experts And The General Public; And Will Report To The City Manager And City Council With Initial Policy Recommendations, Including Ways In Which Success Is Measured, No Later Than Six Months From The Date Of The First Task Force Meeting; Said Task Force Shall Be Chaired By A Lowell Resident Who Is A Person Of Color, And The Majority Of The Task Force Should Be Comprised Of People Of Color Who Reside In Lowell.

The following motion was apparently drawn up in response to letter and the motions above:

11.5 C. Elliott/C. Conway/C. Mercier/C. Rourke/C. Samaras/C. Chau – Req. City Council Adopt Resolution Regarding Inclusiveness, Equity And Racism In The City.
The following motions are in response to the recent passage of a motion to conduct a Human Resources audit in the City and School Department, and to seek grant funding to hire the necessary professionals:
11.3 C. Elliott – Req. City Council Vote To Set Up Lowell Equity And Inclusion Fund To Raise Money From Private Donations To Address Racism, Inclusiveness And Equity In City.
11.4 C. Elliott – Req. City Council Discuss Reallocating State And Federal Grant Resources For HR Audit Or Other Programs To Address Equity And Inclusiveness.

Councilor Chau filed the following motion. Its implications in light of the motion passed by the Council on June 9 to call a joint meeting of the Commission on Race Relations and relevant agencies are unclear:

C. Chau – Req. City Mgr. Create A City Commission To Investigate And Identify Systemic Inequities And Racism In The Following Areas: Housing, Education, Hiring, Health Care, Social Services, Mental Health And Transportation; Members Will Include, But Not To, Representatives From The Following Organizations; Mayor Or Appointee, City Manager Or Appointee, Lowell Housing Authority, CBA, Lowell General Hospital, Lowell Community Health Center, Community Team Work, Trinity Ambulance, PrideStar Ambulance, Lowell Regional Transit Authority, UMass Lowell, Lowell School Administration, Middlesex Community College, Lowell Career Center, UTEC And Lowell Transitional Center.Department Draft An Ordinance To Establish A Citizens Advisory Committee To Help Provide Public Input And Recommendations To The Lowell Police Department.

Policing

Councilor Rourke submitted the following motion to promote the Lowell Police Department’s community outreach efforts:
11.7 C. Rourke – Req. City Mgr. Provide The Council With A Comprehensive Report Regarding Lowell Police Department’s Collaboration With Community Partners Including Lowell Public Schools, Non-Profit Organizations And Other City Departments Through Funding And Active Participation.

Housing and Homelessness

Councilor Nuon keeps his eye on affordable housing:
11.2 C. Nuon – Req. City Mgr. Work With Department Of Planning & Development To Compile A List Of HUD Projects With Affordable Housing Restrictions That Expire In Near Future.

To see the full agenda for the City Council meeting, click here: https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07142020-1628?html=true&fbclid=IwAR2kEucN2O303qRS7d0lYavFTkcJvxN6k-cceQ-3tfgBrLOd7P94SWerywo.

Posted by Caroline Snow in Rapid Response Team
09
Jun
2020

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR JUNE 5, 2020

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Meeting will be Sunday, June 28 at 5:30

 

We are proud to endorse Lisa Arnold for State Rep!

The results are in and the members of Solidarity Lowell have voted to endorse Lisa Arnold for State Rep of the 17th Middlesex District!

Now Lisa needs our help to win! Her campaign is looking for people to help with phone banking, text banking, writing postcards to friends and neighbors, and posting on social media. If you can volunteer some time for any of these, please send an email to volunteer@lisaforstaterep.com.

Local Events and Actions

Peaceful Protest Against Racial and Social Injustice on Littleton Common

Saturday June 6, 10am-1pm
Bring signs, wear masks, be respectful

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, June 9, 6:30pm
At the beginning of the emergency, the City Council voted to meet every 2 weeks to facilitate safe distancing. City Hall is closed to the public. Watch the meeting on LTC (Channel 99 or https://www.ltc.org/watch/channel-99/). Members wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item shall register to speak in advance by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda item and a phone number to call so that they may be conferenced in to the meeting.  Email address is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV.  If no access to email you may contact City Clerk at 978-674-4161.

State-Level Actions and Events

Mass Power Forward Virtual Lobby Day June 12

When: Friday, June 12, approx. 1:00 – 4:00 PM, on Zoom
It’s time to build some momentum behind our Environmental Justice & Climate Action legislative priorities – and you are needed! The Mass Power Forward Planning team is setting up Zoom meetings with State Legislators, by county. Participants will have an opportunity to meet ahead of time and organize their meetings (instructions will be provided). Then, participants will meet with their legislators, both Senator and Representatives, by County. More specifics will be sent out soon.
Register by Sunday, June 7th to receive more details.RSVP Link: https://forms.gle/CCmmPyVL8fr7bXox9
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/241887410433798/

National-Level Actions and Events

House Resolution Condemning Police Violence

Ask your representative to co-sponsor the Omar-Pressley resolution. Reps. Ilhan Omar (MN-5) and Ayanna Pressley (MA-7) have introduced a resolution in the House condemning police violence. Call your representative and demand that they co-sponsor the resolution and speak out publicly about the need for the House to pass it without delay.
Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 /  202-225-3411 (thank her, she’s in favor)
Representative Seth Moulton: 978-531-1669  / 202-225-8020

Contact Congress TODAY to stop police departments from buying weapons of war.

Senator Brian Schatz (D–HI) has announced that he will introduce an amendment that will prevent local police forces from getting tear gas, drones, armored vehicles, and high-caliber weapons of war from the military. This important amendment – in addition to initiatives to defund police departments and hold police officers accountable for committing crimes against the public – will help combat systemic police brutality in the U.S.
Arming police forces with military weapons doesn’t reduce crime or protect law enforcement officers from violence. In fact, police forces that are equipped with weapons of war are more likely to kill civilians.Even worse, militarized police forces often target Black and minority-majority communities, where getting killed by the police is among the leading causes of death. Local law enforcement agencies have bought billions of dollars worth of guns, explosives, helicopters, and more from the military. Senator Brian Schatz (D–HI) wants to end this practice by passing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act. This important amendment will prevent the transfer of military equipment to local law enforcement agencies, but only if more members of Congress support it.
Contact your Senators and Representatives now and tell them to support the Schatz amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act.
Use this form: https://tinyurl.com/yabpgmyb
Or call them directly:
Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 /   202-225-3411
Representative Seth Moulton: 978-531-1669  / 202-225-8020

Tell Congress to Support the Natural Disaster & Emergency Ballot Act 2020 (NDEBA)

Ongoing Solidarity Lowell Initiatives

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius
Marius is the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring. With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Can you chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small! We are also looking for folks who are interested in helping in an ongoing basis, in any of these three committees: Legal, Fundraising, and Housing. If you’re interested, please email mvisn@solidaritylowell.com
Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

Posted by Marissa in Rapid Response Team
02
Nov
2019

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 10/31/19

VOTE!!!

Tuesday, November 5th, 7am-8pm

Solidarity Lowell has endorsed for City Council: Juan Castañeda, Ty Chum, John Drinkwater, Harry Kortikere, and Vesna Nuon. For School Committee, we have endorsed Hilary Clark, Jackie Doherty, Dominik Lay, Sherri O’Connor Barboza, and Ben Opara. It’s also very important to vote on the new election system! Please note that we also endorsed Karen Cirillo but unfortunately she is no longer on the ballot due to health concerns. We wish her the best!

Not sure where to vote? Visit wheredoivotema.org

Need more info on the candidates? Check out these videos: 

City Council: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jYhlL7SIWk&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR3F1qK76XjmNCEJALr1_-xtUF6RK1qPbLK-PcxrvwO_j0127HxdTS6sudI

https://www.utecvotes.org/lowell

School Committee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoIbfbF-dKw&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR3f9tpbmYCQ0tJv9ABseUjxCk7MUGRBjb-ODK5TmSasUPnAyTSZWmeqWC8

Election System: 

English: https://vimeo.com/367348923

Khmer: https://vimeo.com/367344023

Spanish: https://vimeo.com/367350069

Dick Howe’s Blog: http://richardhowe.com/2019/10/09/lowell-election-system-options/

https://yourlowellyourvote.org/

Friends not sure who to vote for? Print and share this endorsements card! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q-Rw5Hz3EyNMNFroSToz9ynyxH4b9GkX/view?usp=sharing

 

October Meeting Notes

View our October meeting notes, including Dominik Lay’s survey responses and a summary of our guest speaker’s presentation on Restorative Justice! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GzrSi5MPCt2PRriQfgyo1muBsdK9l142/view?usp=sharing

 

Announcing Our Endorsement of Dominik Lay

Dominik Lay missed the original deadline for our endorsements but we reviewed his responses to our survey at our October meeting, and after the ballots were cast, our members voted to endorse him for Lowell School Committee!

 

Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group

Starting November 10th, 2019, and continuing each Monday for the following five weeks, 7pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

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. Over the course of this six-week workshop, you will better understand yourself, your communities, and be prepared to work toward a diverse and equitable culture with your friends, family, Lowell and beyond. You will be expected to attend all six sessions.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/4qTydJ1MbakrQCyE9

 

Join the Cleanup Crew!

We’re looking to start organizing a cleanup of South Common. After holding our Cultural Exchange Potluck there the past two years, we’ve found a lot of trash that needs picking up! If you’re interested in helping, please sign up below!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/pcr5vC5sy9pkVyhWA

 

Little Free Libraries

Solidarity Lowell and Chaos Bookery are joining forces to add a Little Free Library to each neighborhood in Lowell! We’re looking for locations (preferably on private property), stewards (folks to maintain the libraries and check on them on a weekly basis), and builders (there are plans online but let us know if you want to help build the libraries). If you’re interested, please sign up below!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/HHbWF7vveUD8rqey6

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

Progressive Mass All-Member Meeting

Saturday, November 9th, 11am-4pm, Congregational Church of Needham, 1154 Great Plain Ave, Needham

Join with other activists from across the state for the first Progressive Mass all-member meeting in several years. Together, we will reflect on our successes, hear from legislators and organizers at the cutting edge of progressive policy in the Commonwealth, and map a path forward to lead the nation by living up to our progressive reputation and passing legislation in line with our values.

RSVP here: https://www.progressivemass.com/2019-member-meeting

Merrimack Valley Project MICAH Dinner

Saturday, November 9th, 6-9pm, All Saints Parish, 120 Bellevue Ave, Haverhill (park in the lot on Blaisdell St)

On Saturday, November 9th, MVP will be holding its annual Ministry in Community Action Honorees (MICAH) Dinner from 6 to 9 PM at All Saints Parish in Haverhill. This is MVP’s annual event where we honor those in our communities who have gone to great lengths to live out their values and to create a more just Merrimack Valley. We are excited to bring together over 15 MVP faith, labor, and community groups as well as those who have supported our work over the past year.

For tickets or more information:  MValleyPR@gmail.com

JFON International Festival

Saturday, November 9th, 5:30-8pm, North Boston Korean United Methodist Church, 244 Lowell St, Andover

Featuring food and entertainment from South Korea, Ghana, and Guatemala; and a silent auction. For the past year, many hardy volunteers have been providing support for the attorneys who provide legal advice and counsel to the immigrants who have visited the Lawrence and Lowell clinics. Lawyers offered advice for women dealing with domestic violence, a teenager trying to find a new home, and others seeking asylum form a home county where they are on the wrong side of the current ruling authority. This work is critical to the many immigrants who visited our clinics this year. Please help us continue this work into the new year, by supporting our fundraiser for New England Justice for Our Neighbors. Tickets are $25 per person or $160 for a table for 8.

To order tickets, call 978-831-4374 or email jfonlawlowclinic@gmail.com

 

Tell Senator Markey to Support We The People

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Please file the We the People Amendment in the Senate. I know you are considering it and I urge you to take this leadership because action on all the issues I care about is being blocked by corporate power and big money in politics. Thank you!”

More information: http://www.wethepeoplemass.org/the-we-the-people-amendment
Please report your call to Info@WtPMass.org

 

 

Get Ranked Choice Voting on the Ballot in MA!

Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) is a commonsense change that would give voters the choice to rank candidates for office in the order they prefer them. This simple change will give Massachusetts voters a stronger voice when we cast our ballots, and guarantee that our elected leaders are supported by a true majority. Voters Choice Massachusetts, the organization promoting RCV, needs to collect 80,239 signatures before the December 1st deadline! With only THREE weekends left, they need all the help they can get! Please sign up below if you can gather signatures at local events. Please note this is for state-level voting and would not affect municipal elections.

Sign up here: https://voterchoice2020.org/signatures/

Ongoing Solidarity Lowell Initiatives

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! 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

Thursday Postcarding

Every Thursday, 9-11am, Panera Bread, 2 Cornerstone Square, Westford

Join your postcarding friends from Indivisible Westford Progressive Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell to write issue-based postcards to our reps and write directly to voters for an upcoming election! Join us every Thursday!

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

 

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring. With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. He will be eligible to apply for a work permit at the beginning of November. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Can you chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small! We are also looking for folks who are interested in helping in an ongoing basis, in any of these three committees: Legal, Fundraising, and Housing. If you’re interested, please email mvisn@solidaritylowell.com

Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

As a result of our recent Strengthening Our Cities workshop series and activities at meetings, Solidarity Lowell is creating a subcommittee that will focus on the topic of affordable housing. If you are interested in joining, sign up using the form below.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/RcDDqskH7bsurq4D9

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

Our endorsements for the 2019 election cycle have been announced, and now we need to support these candidates! If you’re interested in helping out, please contact us at the email below.

If you’re interested, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team
12
Oct
2019

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 10/10/19

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell Endorsed Candidate Celebration!

Monday, October 24th, 6-9pm, Warp and Weft, 197 Market St, Lowell

Join Solidarity Lowell in celebrating our recently endorsed candidates for City Council and School Committee! After completing our candidate surveys and participating in our forum (for City Council candidates), Solidarity Lowell is proud to have endorsed the following for City Council: Juan Castaneda, Ty Chum, John Drinkwater, Harry Kortikere, and Vesna Nuon. And the following School Committee candidates: Sherri Barboza, Hilary Clark, Jackie Doherty, and Ben Opara. We hope you’ll join us to meet these candidates and hear where they stand on important issues!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/368904267327296/

Solidarity Lowell Endorsed Candidate Postcard Party

Sunday, October 13th, 6-8pm, Sweet Journey, 30 Central St, Lowell

Let’s get out the word for Solidarity Lowell’s endorsed City Council and School Committee candidates! Treat yourself to some delicious honey toast or bubble tea and help write postcards to local voters in support of these progressive candidates.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/436035317313849/

 

SAVE THE DATE! Solidarity Lowell October Meeting: Restorative Justice

Sunday, October 27th, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting of Solidarity Lowell! This month our guest speaker is Margot Fleischman, president of the Board of Directors of Communities for Restorative Justice (C4RJ) and a civic leader in the town of Bedford, MA. She has been a Bedford Selectman since 2012 and previously served for five years on the Bedford Planning Board. Margot has held a variety of leadership roles in local and regional organizations, bringing a focus on promoting healthy communities to her work.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/405215050400351/

 

Join the Cleanup Crew!

We’re looking to start organizing a cleanup of South Common. After holding our Cultural Exchange Potluck there the past two years, we’ve found a lot of trash that needs picking up! If you’re interested in helping, please sign up below!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/pcr5vC5sy9pkVyhWA

 

Little Free Libraries

Solidarity Lowell and Chaos Bookery are joining forces to add a Little Free Library to each neighborhood in Lowell! We’re looking for locations (preferably on private property), stewards (folks to maintain the libraries and check on them on a weekly basis), and builders (there are plans online but let us know if you want to help build the libraries). If you’re interested, please sign up below!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/HHbWF7vveUD8rqey6

 

Local Events and Actions

Donate to Keep Vibol Sok in the US!

On October 3rd, Lowell resident Vibol Sok was taken into ICE custody. He has lived in the United States since he was 8 years old and is now at risk of being deported back to Cambodia. Please pitch in whatever you can to cover his legal fees. You can learn more from his sister, SoSo Sok, here: https://www.facebook.com/khmersoup/videos/10218934973779544/ and here: https://www.facebook.com/khmersoup/videos/10218966882217235/

Donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/vibol039s-legal-assistance-to-stop-deportation

Time to Meet Ty Chum for Lowell City Council

Thursday, October 10th, 5:30-7:30pm, JJ Boomers, 705 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell

This is the last physical fundraising event for City Council candidate Ty Chum. Please drop by and show some love and support. From Ty, “Remember you’re my boss and I can’t do my job right if you don’t let me know your wants and needs.” Ty Chum is endorsed by Solidarity Lowell.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/657196794767143/

 

Drinkwater for Lowell Canvass

Saturday, October 12th, 10am, 26 Market St, Lowell

Join John and volunteers as we get out and talk to Lowell voters about John’s priorities and the importance of getting out to vote on November 5th! John Drinkwater is endorsed by Solidarity Lowell.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1446422285497220/

 

Commemorate Indigenous Peoples in Massachusetts: Indigenous Resistance and Resilience in 1670s Lowell Tour

Monday, October 14th, 1-2:30pm, Lowell National Historical Park, 246 Market St, Lowell

This 90-minute walking tour explores how Indigenous people living in greater Lowell in the 1670s confronted and resisted colonialism through combat, and through their command of the Algonquian and English language. The walk will also discuss how nineteenth century Lowellians selectively remembered and celebrated their past, and what implications that has for our understanding of Lowell’s past.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2327884347540305/

 

Westford Climate Action Now Rally

Thursday, October 17th, 4-7pm, Westford Town Common, Westford

Come protest on the Westford Town Common for climate action now! We have 11 years left to take dramatic action to stop the extinction of not only our own species but of one million total species and creating an unlivable future. We must make change now, before it is irreversible!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/397190804249591/

 

October Canal Cleanup

Saturday, October 19th, 9am-12pm, Guaranteed Aluminum, 349 Bridge St, Lowell

We’re squeezing in one last cleanup this year under the Centralville side of the Cox Bridge on Bridge St. Focus again will be on removing trash and invasive plants (some of which are a bit thorny). Hope to see you there.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/523740741749152/

 

 

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

Musical Protest Against Detention with HONK!

Sunday, October 13th, 8:30-10pm, South Bay Detention Center, 44 Bradston St, Boston

Join Resist the Raids, Massachusetts Jobs with Justice and bands from the Honk! Festival of Activist Street Bands to show musical solidarity with our friends, family and neighbors who are locked up in Suffolk County House of Correction and the ICE immigrant detention center. Bring your drums, horns, pots and pans to break the silence around incarceration, raids and deportations. We want our folks home where they belong! Honk! down the walls! Meet up at the corner of Southampton St. and Bradston St. in Boston.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1237385166449617/

Support Data Equity Now!

Tuesday, October 15th, 10am-6pm, Massachuetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

H.2681 suggests that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts standardize state forms to collect optional race and ethnicity data to more closely resemble the way the federal Census breaks down demographic data. This allows for more comprehensive research, analysis, and provision of services to all of our Commonwealth’s diverse communities. This would highlight and uplift data representing communities in our Commonwealth including but not limited to Vietnamese, Cambodian, Bangladeshi, Nepalese, Haitian, Cape Verdean, Ethiopian, Somalian, Puerto Rican, Salvadoran, Dominicans, and Colombians.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/838868316511241/

 

October Jericho Walk at the Burlington ICE Office

Tuesday, October 15th, 1-2pm, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

Join us for our monthly Jericho Walk at the ICE office in Burlington, MA. 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!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2387208214940495/

 

Call to Support the Cambodian Community

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. I would like to express my grave concern about the detention and deportation of Cambodian Americans who are members of our community in Lowell. Since 2017, we have seen a sharp increase in the arbitrary detention and removal of Southeast Asian American community members. This increase heavily impacts communities in Massachusetts such as those in Lowell and Lynn, which have the second and third largest Cambodian populations in the United States. I am urging you to demand that the Department of Homeland Security halt all ICE raids targeting the Cambodian community, including many long-term Cambodian American residents of Massachusetts. Thank you!”

More information: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V2tj0Fu4N3o-NBIiwPZcknmXB1d_yShp/view

 

Support Election Day Registration

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. As voting rights are under attack in other states, we need to strengthen the right to vote here at home. That means making sure that all eligible voters who want to cast a ballot on Election Day are able to participate. Massachusetts’s 20-day registration deadline, however, denies thousands of eligible voters the right to vote. It is arbitrary, unjust, and unnecessary, and our neighbors in Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Vermont have already done away with their voter registration deadlines. I urge you to support legislation bringing Election Day Registration to Massachusetts (H.685). Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S396

 

Support the Student Opportunity Act

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

The Student Opportunity Act passed the Senate! Now we need to encourage our State representatives to do the same!

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. The Student Opportunity Act (S. 2350) will provide $1.5 billion per year in new school funding to help the students who need it the most. Thank you!”

More information: https://fundourfuturema.org/take-action/

 

 

 

Ongoing Solidarity Lowell Initiatives

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! 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

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring. With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. He will be eligible to apply for a work permit at the beginning of November. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Can you chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small! We are also looking for folks who are interested in helping in an ongoing basis, in any of these three committees: Legal, Fundraising, and Housing. If you’re interested, please email mvisn@solidaritylowell.com

Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

As a result of our recent Strengthening Our Cities workshop series and activities at meetings, Solidarity Lowell is creating a subcommittee that will focus on the topic of affordable housing. If you are interested in joining, sign up using the form below.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/RcDDqskH7bsurq4D9

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

Our endorsements for the 2019 election cycle have been announced, and now we need to support these candidates! If you’re interested in helping out, please contact us at the email below.

If you’re interested, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com
Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team
05
Oct
2019

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Notes from the Solidarity Lowell September Meeting

This includes all of the responses we received from our City Council and School Committee candidate surveys!

View here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Rh5NZD6jnXNk70Dz_XnlxI04j6088SPr/view?usp=sharing

Immigrant Rights Subcommittee Meeting

Monday, October 7th, 6:30pm, Eliot Presbyterian Church, 273 Summer St, Lowell

On the agenda: debriefing from the Cultural Exchange Potluck, discussing how to proceed with a Trust Act (or similar) for Lowell, and statewide initiatives for the Safe Communities Act and Driving Families Forward. All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2189555934482196/
Join the Cleanup Crew

We’re looking to start organizing a cleanup of South Common. After holding our Cultural Exchange Potluck there the past two years, we’ve found a lot of trash that needs picking up! If you’re interested in helping, please sign up below!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/pcr5vC5sy9pkVyhWA

 

 

 

Local Events and Actions

Ben Opara Campaign Meet and Greet

Thursday, October 3rd, 6:30-8:30pm, The Old Court, 29 Central St, Lowell

Join us for a party celebrating School Committee candidate Ben Opara. Meet Ben and learn where he stands on important issues facing our schools. Ben Opara has been endorsed by Solidarity Lowell.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/506022873518262/

Your Lowell, Your Vote Panel Discussion

Monday, October 7th, 6-8pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell

Please join us for a panel discussion featuring experts on each of the two new election system options appearing on the November 5th Municipal Election ballot. The event will be moderated by Lisa Handley, Ph.D., who is a leading expert in voter data analysis and voting patterns, and has published widely in this area. Panelists include Howard Fain, Deputy Director of Policy and Research with Voter Choice Massachusetts; Tanya Ford, Executive Director of the Cambridge Election Commission for the City of Cambridge; Michael Gallagher, J.D., a founding partner of Gallagher & Cavanaugh LLP, a Lowell-based law firm; and Niko Vangjeli, Assistant City Clerk for the City of Worcester.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2910989709126799/

 

 

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

Rally to Defend the Cambodian Community

Thursday, October 3rd, 8:30am, Burlington ICE Office, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

When We Fight, We Win! We are organizing to mobilize community members out to the Burlington ICE detention facility to show up and support the Cambodian community! Cambodian community members have received notices by ICE to check-in this Thursday, October 3rd, essentially, to turn themselves in, where they will face imminent detention and deportation.

Carpool information: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd27hCuFRztVxOzzslVCwJJs8ESuXjvK7VSZJcxNiKsRhhS0w/viewform

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2358148117635222

Manifestación/Rally: Licenses Can’t Wait! ¡Se Acabó La Espera!

Thursday, October 3rd, 5-6:30pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Join the immigrant community and allies outside the State House to demand that legislators follow through on their promises to protect immigrants in the state of Massachusetts! The undocumented community has been fighting for drivers licenses for 15 years and have STILL not seen lawmakers deliver on promises to grant access to licenses to all residents regardless of immigration status.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2556182637771684/

 

Call to Support the Cambodian Community

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. I would like to express my grave concern about the detention and deportation of Cambodian Americans who are members of our community in Lowell. Since 2017, we have seen a sharp increase in the arbitrary detention and removal of Southeast Asian American community members. This increase heavily impacts communities in Massachusetts such as those in Lowell and Lynn, which have the second and third largest Cambodian populations in the United States. I am urging you to demand that the Department of Homeland Security halt all ICE raids targeting the Cambodian community, including many long-term Cambodian American residents of Massachusetts. Thank you!”

More information: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V2tj0Fu4N3o-NBIiwPZcknmXB1d_yShp/view

Support Election Day Registration

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

Sen. Edward Kennedy 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barry Finegold 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. As voting rights are under attack in other states, we need to strengthen the right to vote here at home. That means making sure that all eligible voters who want to cast a ballot on Election Day are able to participate. Massachusetts’s 20-day registration deadline, however, denies thousands of eligible voters the right to vote. It is arbitrary, unjust, and unnecessary, and our neighbors in Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Vermont have already done away with their voter registration deadlines. I urge you to support legislation bringing Election Day Registration to Massachusetts (S.396/H.685). Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S396

Support the Student Opportunity Act

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

Sen. Edward Kennedy 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barry Finegold 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. The Student Opportunity Act (S. 2350) will provide $1.5 billion per year in new school funding to help the students who need it the most. Please co-sponsor this along with the following amendments:

  • #17 (Targeted Improvement Plans), which increases community and educator involvement in school districts’ plans to reduce disparities — and requires charter schools to create such plans as well
  • #19 (Charter Cap Reimbursement), which caps the number of charter schools and charter school seats for any year in which the state fails to fully fund the charter school mitigation account.
  • #27 (Analyze Impact of Proposition 2 1/2), which requires a study of the impact on this regressive tax law on municipalities’ ability to provide a high-quality education to all students
  • #53 (Ensuring Proportional Phase-In), which makes sure that all of the updates get phased in at the same pace so that low-income students don’t get left behind
  • #61 (Charter School Reimbursement Accountability), which requires the Commonwealth to draw funding from charter schools to ensure full reimbursement to public schools
  • #63 (Following Through On Our Commitments), which makes sure that the Legislature fully funds charter reimbursements.

Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/s2350
 

 

 

 

 

Ongoing Solidarity Lowell Initiatives

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! 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

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring. With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. He will be eligible to apply for a work permit at the beginning of November. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Can you chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small! We are also looking for folks who are interested in helping in an ongoing basis, in any of these three committees: Legal, Fundraising, and Housing. If you’re interested, please email mvisn@solidaritylowell.com

Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

As a result of our recent Strengthening Our Cities workshop series and activities at meetings, Solidarity Lowell is creating a subcommittee that will focus on the topic of affordable housing. If you are interested in joining, sign up using the form below.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/RcDDqskH7bsurq4D9

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

Our endorsements for the 2019 election cycle have been announced, and now we need to support these candidates! If you’re interested in helping out, please contact us at the email below.

If you’re interested, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com
Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team
08
Sep
2019

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 9/7/19

Lowell Events and Actions

Show Immigrant Solidarity: Drivers’ License Community Forum

Sunday, September 8th, 1:30-2:45pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

Warm up for Welcoming Week by attending our community forum where we will hear from local and state leaders of the Driving Families Forward campaign on how this will help make roads safer for everyone, while allowing immigrants the ability to own a standard driver’s license, regardless of immigration status. Co-hosted by Solidarity Lowell, Christ Church United, and other local groups.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/439377206674912/

Flier in English and Spanish here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SolidarityLowell/permalink/749745085479145/
The 2nd Annual Cultural Exchange Potluck Picnic

Saturday, September 15th, 2-5pm, South Common Park, 190 Thorndike St, Lowell

Part of Welcoming Week Lowell. Featuring free food and live entertainment from many different cultures and information about local organizations. Bring the family, special children’s entertainment will be provided! If you can contribute food or anything else please sign up here:https://www.mealtrain.com/potlucks/1g5eo6

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/469092367232832/

 

SAVE THE DATE: City Council Preliminary Candidate Forum with Solidarity Lowell

Thursday, September 19th, 7-8:30pm, MCC Federal Building, Assembly Room, 50 Kearney Square, Lowell

Join Solidarity Lowell and MCC for our City Council Candidate Forum, moderated by Charlie Smith. Meet the candidates and hear their positions on key issues affecting Lowell today and in the future.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/361161401477603/

 

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! 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

Thursday Postcarding 

Every Thursday, 9-11am, Panera Bread, 2 Cornerstone Square, Westford
Join your postcarding friends from Indivisible Westford Progressive Massachusetts and Solidarity Lowell to write issue-based postcards to our reps and write directly to voters for an upcoming election! Join us every Thursday!

For more information, email hope@solidaritylowell.com

 

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring. With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. He will be eligible to apply for a work permit at the beginning of November. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Can you chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small! We are also looking for folks who are interested in helping in an ongoing basis, in any of these three committees: Legal, Fundraising, and Housing. If you’re interested, please emailmvisn@solidaritylowell.com

Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

As a result of our recent Strengthening Our Cities workshop series and activities at meetings, Solidarity Lowell is creating a subcommittee that will focus on the topic of affordable housing. If you are interested in joining, sign up using the form below.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/RcDDqskH7bsurq4D9

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

The time has come to get our endorsements survey ready for the Lowell City Council and School Committee elections this fall. We’re looking for folks who are interested in helping put together the survey, get it out to those running for office, and compile the results for our members.

If you’re interested, please email lynne@solidaritylowell.com

Local Events and Actions

GoLowell Kickoff

Wednesday, September 11th, 6-8pm, 375 Merrimack St, Lowell

Join us to kickoff the #GoLowell plan! GoLowell wants to hear how you get around the City today and what we can do to make it safer and easier. Translation services and childcare will be provided.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/576788286189672/

City Council Candidating

Thursday, September 12th, 5:30-8:30pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell

Join Coalition for a Better Acre and Lowell Votes for a chance to meet city council candidates in a fun, friendly environment. Candidates will move from table to table, just like with “speed dating”. You’ll be able to ask your questions so you can decide who to vote for in the preliminary on September 24th. Spanish and Khmer interpreters, food, drinks, and child care will be available.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2531916983535847/

 

Celebrating Immigrants Through Music

Friday, September 13th, 8-9:30pm, Donahue Family Academic Arts Center, 240 Central St, Lowell

As part of Welcoming Week, a variety of music will be performed from Cambodia, Africa and Brazil as well as works by immigrant composers Igor Stravinsky, Max Lifchitz, Jaime León Ferro and Tan Dun who settled in the United States from Russia, Mexico, Colombia and China respectively. MCC faculty members Orlando Cela, flute; Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta, piano; Marcus Santos, pandero; and Anna Ward, soprano will be joined by Sovann Khon, tro sau and the African Fellowship Choir and drummers of Eliot Church.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/892562237784963/

 

Volunteer for JFON, Helping Lawyers Give Immigrants Free Legal Advice

It is hard to believe that the Lawrence – Lowell JFON Clinics have been in operation for almost one year.  Thanks to the tremendous response from so many volunteers, the new clinics have taken off at both sites. Whether you support a Hospitality Team or work as an Intake Volunteer or Interpreter, the success of JFON depends greatly on your commitment to this mission. As they say, it takes a village to raise a child and it takes volunteers to run a JFON clinic. The clinics have been fully scheduled through December 2019 (see attached schedule).  At the same time, there is a need to secure additional volunteers and to determine if any of the current volunteers would like to take on a new role. As we look to the fall and 2020, the following needs exist: Clinic Managers, Intake Volunteers, Interpreters, Phone Intake Coordinator, and Fundraising.

If interested, email David Troughton at dtroughton@comcast.net

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

Shame on Marty Walsh: A Response to Police Violence

Saturday, September 7th, 2pm, Boston City Hall Plaza, 1 City Hall Sq, Boston

On Saturday August 23rd, Mayor Marty Walsh handed the alt-right a permit to march down the streets of Boston in a “Straight Pride Parade”. He also gave police forces from all over the state— as well as the F.B.I. and National Guard— the green-light to attack peaceful LGBTQ+ counter-protesters. Bearing “Blue Lives Matter” flags, they targeted medics, marshals, and press in a calculated attempt to protect the white nationalists, who called for the forced removal of immigrants, a return to sexual “normalcy”, and Trumps re-election, among other things. This Saturday, meet us to demand: the charges against the counter-protestors are dropped, the resignation of Captain John Danilecki of the Boston Police Department, the resignation of Judge Thomas Horgan, and an end to the militarization of Black and Brown communities.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/740955619691226/

Gender Marker X Bill Hearing

Tuesday, September 10th, 10:30am-1:30pm, Massachusetts State House, Gardner Auditorium, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Please attend this hearing to support adding a third gender option (X instead of just M or F) to Massachusetts IDs, and speak if you can! Can’t attend? Submit written testimony to TreAndreValentine@masstpc.org. Please also contact your representatives to ask them to report the bill favorably out of committee!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/377546892922804/

 

Defund Hate Walk from Boston to Concord

Wednesday, September 11th, 9am-4pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Like Paul Revere and William Dawes, we will be going from Boston to Concord to spread the word to #DefundHate and #CloseTheCamps. We will be walking along Massachusetts Avenue carrying prominent signs to draw attention to the issue. This event is just some concerned citizens taking a walk. Join us for the entire walk (15 miles) or part of the walk (we will provide a route and anticipated times to interested people). Combine your need for exercise with your love of resisting – Resistercize!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1977777682322360/

 

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team
02
Sep
2019

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 8/31/19

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 Marissa Dupont at marissa@solidaritylowell.com.

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

View the notes from our August meeting here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u10UvXkocAyzgB7YR6DcE-e69CLcLN4N/view?usp=sharing

Immigrant Rights Subcommittee and Cultural Exchange Potluck Planning Meeting

Tuesday, September 3rd, 6:30pm, Eliot Church, 273 Summer Street, Lowell

Please join us for a meeting of the Solidarity Lowell Immigrant Rights Subcommittee. We will be finalizing the plans for our Cultural Exchange Potluck as part of Welcoming Week, and talking about plans to further our support for the Safe Communities Act after this week’s City Council meeting.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/889574894739421/

 

SAVE THE DATE: The 2nd Annual Cultural Exchange Potluck

Saturday, September 15th, 2-5pm, South Common Park, 190 Thorndike St, Lowell

Part of Welcoming Week Lowell. Featuring free food and live entertainment from many different cultures and information about local organizations. Bring the family, special children’s entertainment will be provided! If you can contribute food or anything else please sign up here:https://www.mealtrain.com/potlucks/1g5eo6

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/469092367232832/

 

SAVE THE DATE: City Council Preliminary Candidate Forum with Solidarity Lowell

Thursday, September 19th, 7-8:30pm, MCC Federal Building, Assembly Room, 50 Kearney Square, Lowell

Join Solidarity Lowell and MCC for our City Council Candidate Forum, moderated by Charlie Smith. Meet the candidates and hear their positions on key issues affecting Lowell today and in the future.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/361161401477603/

 

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! 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

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring. With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. He will be eligible to apply for a work permit at the beginning of November. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Can you chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small! We are also looking for folks who are interested in helping in an ongoing basis, in any of these three committees: Legal, Fundraising, and Housing. If you’re interested, please email mvisn@solidaritylowell.com

Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

As a result of our recent Strengthening Our Cities workshop series and activities at meetings, Solidarity Lowell is creating a subcommittee that will focus on the topic of affordable housing. If you are interested in joining, sign up using the form below.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/RcDDqskH7bsurq4D9

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

The time has come to get our endorsements survey ready for the Lowell City Council and School Committee elections this fall. We’re looking for folks who are interested in helping put together the survey, get it out to those running for office, and compile the results for our members.

If you’re interested, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com

 

 

Local Events and Actions

Karen Cirillo Postcard Party

Saturday, August 31st, 1-3:30pm, Coffee and Cotton, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson St, Lowell

Come write grassroots postcards to voters to help get Solidarity Lowell endorsed candidate Karen Cirillo reelected to Lowell City Council! These personal, handwritten postcards are a unique and memorable way to capture the attention of voters. We’ll bring supplies and addresses, but feel free to bring your own favorite pens, stickers, etc. Donations of postcard stamps are always appreciated!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/512459296180038/

Meet with the Chair of the State Energy Committee, Tom Golden!

Wednesday, September 4th, 7pm, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson St, 4th Floor, Hi Hat Stage area, Lowell

State Representative Tom Golden will be coming to the next 350 MA meeting! He is chair of the state legislature’s energy committee and has a major say on a lot of the important climate change legislation we want to see. We plan to discuss current legislation and our main message is simple: we need to do as much as we can to move away from fossil fuel and toward renewable energy. And do it as fast as we can! You don’t have to be prepared to speak, although you’re welcome to. But it’s really important for Tom to see that Lowell residents and especially constituents care about this. See you Wednesday!

For more information, please email Jon Grossman at jgrossman@seiu509.org

 

Lowell Immigration Town Hall

Sunday, September 8th, 1:30-2:45pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

MVP will be hosting a Lowell Immigration Town Hall to hear campaign updates and to strategize ways to earn our local officials’ support. MVP’s statewide coalition partners have asked MVP to commit to bringing a set amount of attendees and we at MVP are dedicated to reaching this goal by bringing a strong team of dedicated pro-immigrant supporters to the event. Please confirm your attendance by emailing MVP (email below) and let us know how many people will be joining you. Our goal is to pack the church and to let it be known that we need our Lowell elected officials to step up and be leaders when it comes to protecting our city’s immigrant populations.

RSVP here: mvalleypr@gmail.com

 

Volunteer for JFON, Helping Lawyers Give Immigrants Free Legal Advice

It is hard to believe that the Lawrence – Lowell JFON Clinics have been in operation for almost one year.  Thanks to the tremendous response from so many volunteers, the new clinics have taken off at both sites. Whether you support a Hospitality Team or work as an Intake Volunteer or Interpreter, the success of JFON depends greatly on your commitment to this mission. As they say, it takes a village to raise a child and it takes volunteers to run a JFON clinic. The clinics have been fully scheduled through December 2019 (see attached schedule).  At the same time, there is a need to secure additional volunteers and to determine if any of the current volunteers would like to take on a new role. As we look to the fall and 2020, the following needs exist: Clinic Managers, Intake Volunteers, Interpreters, Phone Intake Coordinator, and Fundraising.

If interested, email David Troughton at dtroughton@comcast.net

 

 

 

 

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

Straight Pride is Hate Pride

Saturday, August 31st, 11am-3pm, Boston Public Garden, by the Arlington T stop

Local far-right homophobic and transphobic activists are holding a Straight Pride Parade on August 31st. This is an attempt to gain legitimacy for a violently homophobic, transphobic, and misogynistic agenda. The organizers have a long track record of bigotry and support of fascist groups. In August 2017, the people of Boston dealt a body blow to the national alt-right by bringing out thousands of people to tell these fascists—many of them the same people as those organizing the “straight pride parade”—that we won’t have hate in our city. Let’s turn out again to show them that however they rebrand, we see through their lies and will always come out united against their hate.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2233546250067653/

35th Bread & Roses Heritage Festival

Monday, September 2nd, 11:30am-6pm, Campagnone Common, 200 Common St, Lawrence

As the region’s only true Labor Day festival, 35th Annual Bread & Roses Heritage Festival is an open-air arts and music festival honoring Lawrence’s multicultural roots and rich labor history while commemorating the most significant event in Lawrence history: the 1912 Bread and Roses Strike. A day of activism and family fun, the festival boasts three stages of socially conscious performances, an array of family activities, rows of community vendors, historical trolley and walking tours, culturally diverse food offerings, educational presentations, and more!

More information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bread-and-roses-heritage-festival-tickets-67071876789

 

The Work and Family Mobility Act Hearing

Wednesday, September 4th, 9:30am-3:30pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Room B-1, Boston

On Wednesday September 4, the Transportation Committee will hear testimony on the Work and Family Mobility Act (S.2061 / H.3012). Community allies, advocates, faith leaders, businesses and law enforcement agree—undocumented immigrants deserve the right to a license. The hearing is our opportunity to show why Massachusetts needs Driver’s Licenses for All. It is important that our Driving Families Forward Coalition shows up in full force throughout the duration of the hearing. We hope you will join us for a successful hearing day to ensure we keep #DrivingMAForward!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2304133203019018/

 

Raise Up Popular Education Workshops

Thursday, September 5th, 6-8pm AND Saturday, September 7th, 11am-3pm, 145 Tremont St, Boston, 2nd floor (home of the SEIU State Council)

Our tax code in Massachusetts is skewed in favor of large corporations, who are not paying their fair share. And those same corporations are trying to push more of the tax burden on working people. The Raise Up Massachusetts coalition is launching a campaign for raising revenue in a progressive way that helps provide necessary funds for education and infrastructure (while keeping the Fair Share Amendment moving forward to the 2022 ballot). A key part of that is popular education, and RUM is kicking that off with two pilot sessions next week. Learn about how our tax code is skewed and how we can unskew it–and get ready to educate others.

For more information, email Jonathan Cohn at jrfcohn@gmail.com
Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team
17
Aug
2019

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 8/16/19

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell August Meeting

Sunday, August 25th, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting of Solidarity Lowell! Featuring Mary Taurus, who will present an overview of the four election system options that will be up for a vote by the City Council, and an opportunity for discussion and feedback. All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/354773365413924/
 

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! 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

Support for Marius: $400 Needed for August Living Expenses

First, some great news about Marius (the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring). With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. He will be eligible to apply for a work permit in the beginning of November. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. July is covered, but having fully paid his lawyer, we currently have just $100 available for living expenses in August and onward. Can you chip in towards the $400 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small!

Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

As a result of our recent Strengthening Our Cities workshop series and activities at meetings, Solidarity Lowell is creating a subcommittee that will focus on the topic of affordable housing. If you are interested in joining, sign up using the form below.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/RcDDqskH7bsurq4D9

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

The time has come to get our endorsements survey ready for the Lowell City Council and School Committee elections this fall. We’re looking for folks who are interested in helping put together the survey, get it out to those running for office, and compile the results for our members.

If you’re interested, please email lynne@solidaritylowell.com

 

 

Local Events and Actions

Southeast Asian Water Festival

Saturday, August 17th, 9am-5pm, 500 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell

The Lowell Southeast Asian Water Festival, Inc. is dedicated to the preservation, protection and sharing of cultural heritages of the Southeast Asian Americans in the Greater Lowell area of Massachusetts. Every third Saturday in August, more than 60,000 people from around the country and the world come to Lowell to celebrate water as it is celebrated in Southeast Asia. They come for the blessings, food, crafts, performances and (of course) the races.

More information: http://lowellwaterfestival.org/

Lowell Election Change Informational Session

Thursday, August 22nd, 6-8pm, Mercier Center, 21 Salem St, Lowell

In a decision mandated by the courts, the city must choose from four options that will change how city council and school committee members are selected. We will discuss all the options more at the meeting, but you can learn more about the options here: https://yourlowellyourvote.org/new-options This is a major decision that will change the City of Lowell forever. Don’t miss out on making history. Food, childcare, and interpretation services will be provided.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/483052425601630/

 

 

 

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

Rally to Demand Action on Gun Safety

Sunday, August 18th, 3pm, Boston City Hall Plaza, 1 City Hall Square, Boston

Every day, 100 Americans are shot and killed and hundreds more are wounded. The impact of gun violence goes beyond mass shootings; in recent weeks gun violence has devastated communities across the country including Baltimore, Chicago, Gilroy, Canoga Park, Brooklyn, El Paso, Dayton and many more. It is past time for Senators to listen to Americans, and pass laws requiring background checks on every gun sale and strong federal Red Flags legislation. Join MA Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action and community partners for a rally thanking our MA Senators for all their support and urge the Senate to bring these bills to a vote. Please wear red!

More information: https://act.everytown.org/event/august-recess-2019/25047/signup/

August Jericho Walk at the Burlington MA ICE Office

Tuesday, August 20th, 1-2pm, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

Join us for our monthly Jericho Walk at the ICE office in Burlington, MA. 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!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1079866815536082/

 

 

Interfaith Prayer Vigil to Support ICE Detainees

Sunday, August 25th, 2-3pm, Suffolk County Jail, 20 Bradston St, Boston

Join Massachusetts Communities Action Network (MCAN) as we raise our voices and prayers in support of ICE detainees.  A monthly gathering that draws together different faith traditions, we are able to gather in fellowship with the detained who come to the windows of the Suffolk County Jail to witness the power of the people who remind them they are not alone or forgotten.  This month’s vigil is co-sponsored with King’s Chapel.

More information: https://www.mcan.us/new-events/interfaith-prayer-vigil-mclzt-2cl6k

 

 

Support Fully Funding Public Education for All Students

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

Sen. Edward Kennedy 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barry Finegold 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. It’s been almost four years since a commission created by the legislature showed that we are underfunding our public schools by up to $2 billion a year due to an outdated funding formula from 1993. It’s far past time for the Legislature to update this formula, and we have to do it right. A good bill will do right by all our students, especially the most vulnerable. And that means providing 100% additional funding for the poorest students. I urge you to only support a bill that delivers on this promise of quality public education for all and to communicate this to Speaker Bob DeLeo and Education Chairwoman Alice Peisch. Can I count on you to send a letter to them outlining your demands for an education funding bill?”

More information: https://www.progressivemass.com/keepit100-education?utm_campaign=flashback_friday_education&utm_medium=email&utm_source=progressivemass

 

Support Election Day Voter Registration

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

Sen. Edward Kennedy 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barry Finegold 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. In Massachusetts, our 20-day voter registration cutoff needlessly and arbitrarily disenfranchises thousands of potential voters. That’s why our neighbors in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Connecticut have all done away with such a cutoff. EDR has many benefits. Here are just a few: increased voter turnout, more accurate vote rolls, reduced need for provisional ballots, and greater access for the geographically mobile (e.g., lower-income voters, young voters, and voters of color). Please support Election Day Registration (S.396/H.685). Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S396

 

 

Ask Our Reps to Support Refugees

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

Sen. Edward Kennedy 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572
Sen. Barry Finegold 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Please support refugees by signing onto a letter open to all state and local elected leaders across the country. The letter urges the President to set the refugee admissions ceiling at 95,000 refugees in the coming fiscal year. Our community stands with refugees and has benefited from their contributions. I urge you to demonstrate that our community stands with refugees at this time of historic need. You can find the letter at welcomingrefugees2020.org. Thank you!”

More information: http://welcomingrefugees2020.org/reaching-out-to-elected-representatives/

 

 

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team
22
Jul
2019

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 7/19/19

Solidarity Lowell 3rd Annual Summer Barbecue

Sunday, July 21st, 2-5pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

It’s time for the 3rd annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue! Featuring Baby Trump balloons, an SL slideshow, and more, this is sure to be a fun event! Please note that the location has changed to Christ Church United due to the forecasted extreme heat. Because of this, the Coordinating Committee will provide fixing for sandwiches (including vegetarian and gluten-free options) instead of burgers and dogs. Please sign up for an appetizer, side, or dessert. We hope to see you there!

PLEASE SIGN UP FOR THE POTLUCK HERE: https://www.mealtrain.com/potlucks/k21060

RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/869111123445962/

 

Help Solidarity Lowell Spread the Word about Progressive Causes at Folk Fest

Saturday and Sunday, July 27th-28th, noon-5pm, Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us at our table at Lowell Folk Fest! We’ll be encouraging folks to sign postcards to their representatives about the Safe Communities Act, as well as the Driving Families Forward initiative. And as usual, we’ll help folks register to vote! Please sign up for a shift to help out!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/MQ751JXsmLAJJxu87

Sanctuary Volunteers Ice Cream Social

Tuesday, July 23rd, 7:30pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

Calling all volunteers of the sanctuary network to Christ Church United in Lowell for an ice cream social! Come enjoy some sweet summer treats and re-organize ourselves to better support Marius, our asylum seeker. We’ll hear from Marius about what he needs now and going forward and, as volunteers, sign up to help provide that support. Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. Solidarity Lowell is part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network, which helps provide a place to stay for immigrants at immediate risk of deportation. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please attend! Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). 

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

 

Support for Marius: $400 Needed for August Living Expenses

First, some great news about Marius (the Togolese asylum seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring). With generous support from people like you and MVISN member groups like ours, Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, exponentially increasing his possibility of ultimately winning his case. He will be eligible to apply for a work permit in the beginning of November. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. July is covered, but having fully paid his lawyer, we currently have just $100 available for living expenses in August and onward. Can you chip in towards the $400 we need to meet our commitment to him? Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Consider becoming a “sustaining supporter” by making a recurring monthly donation, no size too small!

Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

As a result of our recent Strengthening Our Cities workshop series and activities at meetings, Solidarity Lowell is creating a subcommittee that will focus on the topic of affordable housing. If you are interested in joining, sign up using the form below.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/RcDDqskH7bsurq4D9

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

The time has come to get our endorsements survey ready for the Lowell City Council and School Committee elections this fall. We’re looking for folks who are interested in helping put together the survey, get it out to those running for office, and compile the results for our members.

If you’re interested, please email lynne@solidaritylowell.com

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! 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

Local Events and Actions

Share Your Priorities with Lowell Votes

Please fill out the Lowell Votes survey to help them create the 2019 voter guide to the Lowell City Council and School Committee candidates! Who knows, maybe a question you submit will end up in the guide!

Respond here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2iztj_hLPGeQaygyETnuLunSBKiSNLekcqIEYoLTaeB3pPg/viewform

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

100% Renewable Energy Lobby Day

Tuesday, July 23rd, 1pm, Room B1, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

The committee hearing for the 100% Renewable Energy Act has been scheduled for next Tuesday 7/23 at 1 PM in room B1 at the State House. If you’re able to show up, that would be awesome. And submitting testimony is also great if you’re unable to attend.

More information: jrfcohn@gmail.com

Driving Families Forward Lobby Day

Wednesday, July 24th, 9:30-11am, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Encourage our state legislature to pass a driver’s license for all law. Attend the DFF Lobby Day!

More information: https://www.wbur.org/news/2019/01/23/undocumented-immigrants-drivers-licenses-bill

 

Demand Our Representatives Support the Safe Communities Act

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. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

Sen. Edward Kennedy 617-722-1630 ←-thank him for co-sponsoring!
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572 ←-thank him for co-sponsoring!
Sen. Barry Finegold 617-722-1612
Sen. Jamie Eldridge 617-722-1120 ←-thank him for co-sponsoring!

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. The Safe Communities Act — not ripping families apart — is what true public safety looks like. The Safe Communities Act protects documented and undocumented families, particularly women, from abuse and brings us all together in opposition to the immoral policies of the Trump administration. Please co-sponsor this bill immediately! Thank you!”

More information: http://miracoalition.org/safe-communities

 

Tell Trahan to Impeach!

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Trump’s racism started long before his time in the presidency, but his actions during the past week, especially at his campaign rallies, is inexcusable. The time has come to support measures to impeach him! Please do everything in your power to stand against racism and get Trump out of office!”

More information: http://impeach.indivisible.org/

 

 

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team