Month: January 2018

Jan

2018

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 1/25/18

Local

Postcards for Progress – January Edition

Saturday, January 27, 10am-12pm, Sweet Journey, 30 Central Street, Lowell

It’s time for postcards again! We’ll be writing to our elected officials and directly to voters! Please join us for the first postcarding Saturday of the new year! Open to all who want to help with progressive causes.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/316908875478750/

Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

Sunday, January 28th, 5:30pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell. PLEASE NOTE THE NEW LOCATION! Enter at the Bartlett Street entrance. Our meeting is in the chapel (come inside and take a left). This month’s speaker is Laura Rótolo from the ACLU. All are welcome!

More information:
https://www.facebook.com/events/168642753867149/

Develop Your Leadership Skills and Make Your Community a Better Place!

Empower: Building Leaders, Strengthening Communities is an initiative developed by Lowell Alliance and Coalition for a Better Acre. We are seeking community activists and leaders, or potential leaders, interested in learning how to create positive change and improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods and communities. Through a 9-week training program, Empower will provide participants with the knowledge, skills and resources to strengthen their capacity to create and lead change at the grassroots level.

More information: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_FZRWBF3OYyBFtDoW81Dl7PgVqNe6h1JPS1ZaDMSq0Q/edit

Volunteer Opportunity: Solarize Mass

350 Lowell is looking for volunteers for its Solarize Massachusetts (Solarize Mass) program. Solarize Mass seeks to increase the adoption of small-scale solar electricity in participating communities through a competitive solicitation process that aggregates homeowner buying power to lower installation prices for participants. If you’re interested in volunteering, please email Tom Fahlberg at tom.fahlberg@gmail.com

More information: http://www.masscec.com/solarize-mass

State

Automatic Voter Registration Lobby Day

Wednesday, January 31, 10am, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street, Room 428

Our democracy is strongest when every voice is able to be heard. Automatic voter registration (AVR) would shift voter registration from the current opt-in system to an opt-out one, enabling more people to participate in the political process. AVR costs less and makes voting rolls more accurate and secure, too. It’s time for Massachusetts to take the win-win! Join us at the State House (Room 428) and talk with your legislators about why MA should finally pass this vital reform!

More information: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdiZ88MTINRHuYoXe4fkvow7syvvtqE4JFbiE6amOoBy8SWfg/viewform

Safe Communities Act Call-In Day

Wednesday, January 31st, from your home!

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

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

We believe Massachusetts should lead the resistance against the Trump administration. The Safe Communities Act (SCA) is the STRONGEST action Massachusetts can take to push back against Trump’s toxic, xenophobic deportation machine. But political courage is needed–Safe Communities Act urgently needs your help. Anti-immigrant forces have been poisoning our culture for a long time, and politicians are now reflexively overly cautious–even in these dire, frightening times. We must push if we want to win. Wednesday, 1/31, Progressive Massachusetts and the Safe Communities Coalition are jamming the phone lines at the State House–you’ve called before, and it’s time for Legislators to act.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/174901399947165/
Single Payer Health Care in MA by 2020

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

We need to ensure that the “Benchmark Bill” amendment (Bill H596/S610, “To Ensure Effective Cost Control”) isn’t stripped from the Health Care Cost Control Omnibus Bill when it is voted on in the House–which could happen anytime now. This bill, if passed, requires a comparison of our current healthcare system to a universal single payer system, modeling cost and accessibility by using 3 years of data (2016, 2017, 2018). If the data proves single payer is more effective, the Health Policy Commission would be required (with public input) to submit a plan for implementation within six months.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from _______, Massachusetts. Please support the Benchmark bill by writing a letter to House Speaker DeLeo. This letter should request that DeLeo takes up the Health Care Cost Control Omnibus Bill with Jen Benson’s Benchmark Study included. Please send a copy of the letter to me as well. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S610
Stand with Americans who are Poor, Disabled, and/or Unable to Work

Write and/or call: Daniel Tsai, Assistant Secretary for MassHealth
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Medicaid
1 Ashburn Place, 11th Floor, Room 1109
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 573‐1770

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from ______, Massachusetts. I am deeply concerned about the CMS letter on 1/12/18 allowing states to deny medical care to vulnerable citizens. With a majority of Medicaid enrollees already working, in school, or medically unable to work, compliance enforcement is an unnecessary waste of taxpayer money. This policy penalizes people living in poverty and with disabilities, risks their health, and cuts them off from a powerful poverty-reducing program. We must take care of our neighbors in need. I entreat you to continue providing Medicaid to all citizens of Massachusetts who need it. Thank you!”

More information: https://talkpoverty.org/2018/01/11/heres-trumps-new-policy-end-medicaid-know/

Jan

2018

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 1/17/18

Local
Lowell Women’s Solidarity March and Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!

Sunday, January 21st, 2-6pm, March starts at the UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center (50 Warren Street), ends at Mill No. 5 (275 Jackson Street)

One year ago, many of us marched in the streets, united by sadness, anger and resolve. We knew then–and we still know now–that the fight for civil liberties and civil rights can’t be stamped out by one election or one man. On the anniversary of the largest grassroots mobilization in U.S. history — the Women’s March — let’s gather together to strategize for 2018, march together in solidarity, and commit to collective action. The march starts at the Lowell Inn and Conference Center parking lot (please note you cannot park there, park on the street–free on Sunday!), and continues around downtown Lowell to Mill No. 5 for some inspirational speakers including Alexandra Chandler, Manisha Bewtra, Susie In-Chhuon, Karen Cirillo, and Rithy Uong. After the Demonstrate portion of the event, the Drink and Discuss portion will happen at Coffee and Cotton.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/737658576443295/

Regional Public Hearing on Women’s Issues

Tuesday, January 23, 4:30-6:30pm, Lowell Telecommunications Corp (LTC), 246 Market Street, Lowell

Community leaders and local area residents are invited to testify. Please attend and let us know about issues that affect you, your children, your family, and your community. Oral and written testimony will be accepted. Open to the public.

For more information and to RSVP, email mcsw@state.ma.us or call 617.626.6520

Lowell Open Space Plan Kickoff Meeting

Wednesday, January 24, 6-8pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway Street, Lowell

Questions: openspace@lowellma.gov

SGLLWV Presents: Meet Your Lowell Elected Officials Reception

Wednesday, January 24, 5:30-7:30pm, LTC Gallery, 246 Market Street, Lowell

The elections are over and your new elected officials are swearing in. Come out and meet them! Talk about your vision for this wonderful, vibrant city!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/134740403855152/

Postcards for Progress – January Edition

Saturday, January 27, 10am-12pm, Sweet Journey, 30 Central Street, Lowell

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/316908875478750/

Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

Sunday, January 28th, 5:30pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

More information:
https://www.facebook.com/events/168642753867149/

State

Call About the 350 MA Environmental Priority Bills

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from ______, Massachusetts. Please work to pass the following bills this session: Increase the Renewable Portfolio Standard by at least 2% (H.2700),
Reform the DPU and Ban the Pipeline Tax for Good (H.3400), Community and low-income Solar Incentives (H.3396), The Environmental Justice Act (H.2913), and Implement the Global Warming Solutions Act (H.2149). Thank you very much!”

More information: http://mapowerforward.com/legislative-agenda-2017-2018

Help Move the Financial Transparency Bill Out of Committee

State Senator Ann Gobi, Chair of the Joint Committee on Election Law: 617-722-1540

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from ______, Massachusetts. Please report Bill S.365, An Act Restoring Financial Transparency in Presidential Elections, out of committee and not subject it to an extension order. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.minutemanindivisible.org/uploads/1/1/6/6/116648967/its_time_for_a_s.365_party.pdf

Federal

Oppose Work Requirements for Medicaid Beneficiaries

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

Sample Script: “Hi, my name is ______ from ______, Massachusetts. Please oppose the new CMS guidance allowing states to impose work requirements for Medicaid. Work requirements do not increase employment over time, and denying needy people access to healthcare will only worsen poverty in the US. Thank you!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/oppose-work-requirements-for-medicaid-beneficiaries

Jan

2018

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 1/12/18

Local

Lowell Solidarity March and Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!

Sunday, January 21st, 2-6pm, March starts at the UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center, 50 Warren Street, Lowell

One year ago, many of us marched in the streets, united by sadness, anger and resolve. We knew then–and we still know now–that the fight for civil liberties and civil rights can’t be stamped out by one election or one man. On the anniversary of the largest grassroots mobilization in U.S. history — the Women’s March — let’s gather together to strategize for 2018, march together in solidarity, and commit to collective action. The march starts at the Lowell Inn and Conference Center parking lot (please note you cannot park there, park on the street–free on Sunday!), and continues around downtown Lowell. This will be followed by an indoor event (location TBD) consisting of inspirational speakers with refreshments available for purchase. After the Demonstrate portion of the event, the Drink and Discuss portion will happen at Coffee and Cotton.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/737658576443295/

SAVE THE DATE! Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

Sunday, January 28th, 5:30pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

More information:
https://www.facebook.com/events/168642753867149/

SAVE THE DATE! Postcards for Progress – January Edition

Saturday, January 27, 10am-12pm, Sweet Journey, 30 Central Street, Lowell

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/316908875478750/

State

Stand in Solidarity with our Indonesian Neighbors

Wednesday, January 17th, 8:15-9am, John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse, Boston, Massachusetts 02210

On January 17, Judge Patty Saris of the US District Court will rule on the merits of the class action case which argues that the deportation of a group of Indonesians should be halted so that they may pursue relief in immigration court. Please join us for a visibility action to show solidarity with these men and women who seek an opportunity to remain in the United States where they have made a home.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/584271661919694/

MA Clean Energy Call-in Day on January 17th

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I am calling from _______. Please do everything in your power to assure the legislature acts on clean energy and climate change in 2018. Please support the following bills: 50% clean energy by 2030 – H2700 and S1876, Environmental Justice – H2913 and S426, Solar for All – H3396 and S1831, Reform the DPU and Prevent the Pipeline Tax – H3400 and S1847, and Implementing the Global Warming Solutions Act – H2149 and S479. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1785995611434424/

Federal

Don’t Let Trump Spy on Americans

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from ______, Massachusetts. Please vote NO on S. 139, unless the backdoor search loophole is closed. This would give Donald Trump and Jeff Sessions access to our phone calls and emails. Please co-sponsor the USA RIGHTS Act to protect everyday Americans from government spying. Without the USA RIGHTS Act, Section 702 spying power should expire altogether. Thank you!”

More information: http://act.demandprogress.org/call/call-congress-now-dont-let-trump-spy-americans/?source=demandprogress&t=2&akid=13187%2E27432%2EivdXU4

Advocate for Medical Care for Those in Need–Without Strings

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _______ from ______, Massachusetts. I’m concerned about the president’s plan to make people work for Medicaid coverage. I want my tax dollars to support my neighbors in need. Disabled Americans, pregnant women, and elderly people shouldn’t have to work to receive medical care. Please commit to opposing the president’s plan. Thank you!”

More information: http://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/367514-trump-poised-to-take-action-on-medicaid-work-requirements

Fight Toxic Crop Chemicals

The EPA (Scott Pruitt) will consider allowing the bee-killing pesticide thiamethoxam to be sprayed on the most widely grown crops in the U.S. The application, if approved, would allow the highly toxic pesticide to be sprayed directly on 165 million acres of wheat, barley, corn, sorghum, alfalfa, rice and potatoes.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from ________, Massachusetts. Thiamethoxam is an extremely dangerous chemical and I am appalled that you are even considering spraying it on our food. This is irresponsible and upsetting. Please do not approve the use of this hazardous chemical. Thank you!”

Submit your comment here: https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0581

More information: http://bit.ly/2mvKfmI

Jan

2018

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 1/4/18

Local

SAVE THE DATE! Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

Sunday, January 28th, 5:30pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

More information:
https://www.facebook.com/events/168642753867149/

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

State

Protest Against Child Deportations

Tuesday, January 9th, 1-2pm, US Immigration Courts at JFK Federal Building, 15 Sudbury St, Boston

Every Tuesday at the immigration court in the JFK Federal Building, in the heart of Boston, children without legal representation are brought before a judge and then deported, often times to situations that are extremely dangerous. In January, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh declared that Boston would be a sanctuary for immigrants. He even offered his office as a literal sanctuary to immigrants facing deportation. Yet every Tuesday since making that promise, dozens of children have been deported within sight of Mayor Walsh’s office. Join us to stand in solidarity with the children who will be in court that day, pleading for the chance to remain safely in the U.S.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/380169352427568/

Support the Safe Communities Act

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

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

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from ______, Massachusetts. The Safe Communities Act (S.1305 / H.3269) would protect the civil rights of all state residents by making sure our tax dollars are not used to help the Trump administration separate immigrant families or create a Muslim registry. Please co-sponsor it! Thank you!”

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

Federal

Oppose a Federal Judge Appointee with a History of Condoning Race-Based Voter Suppression

Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
Edward Markey: 617-565-8519

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from ______, Massachusetts. Please oppose the nomination of Thomas Farr to a lifetime appointment to the US District Court. His history of defending voter suppression and targeting Black voters makes him unfit for this position. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.splcenter.org/hatewatch/2017/12/04/eugenics-voter-id-laws-thomas-farrs-connections-pioneer-fund

Advocate for Transparency in Political Advertisements

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from ______, Massachusetts. Please co-sponsor the Honest Ads Act (S. 1989/H.R. 4077) while it’s still in committee. Americans deserve to know who is paying for political ads, and this bipartisan effort improves transparency in online advertising. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.npr.org/2017/10/19/558847414/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-honest-ads-act

Local

Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

Develop Your Leadership Skills and Make Your Community a Better Place!

State Automatic Voter Registration Lobby Day

Local Lowell Women’s Solidarity March and Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!

Regional Public Hearing on Women’s Issues

Lowell Open Space Plan Kickoff Meeting

SGLLWV Presents: Meet Your Lowell Elected Officials Reception

Postcards for Progress – January Edition

Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

Federal

Local

Lowell Solidarity March and Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!

SAVE THE DATE! Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

SAVE THE DATE! Postcards for Progress – January Edition

Local

SAVE THE DATE! Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

State

Federal

State

Automatic Voter Registration Lobby Day

Local
Lowell Women’s Solidarity March and Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!