Month: May 2023

May

2023

Greater Lowell Pride 2023 This Saturday June 3rd!

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell Hybrid Meeting

Sunday, June 25, 5:30-7pm
In person at Christ Church United, 10 Arlington St, Dracut
Online link: to be announced

Hear the latest news regarding our petition for better treatment of Lowell’s unhoused population, which was presented to the City Council at the April 11 meeting. Speaker to be announced.

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is an asylum-seeker from Togo who we have assisted since he arrived here in 2018.

He and Lillian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, had a baby last year and need assistance. Gift cards are appreciated. These can be given to Marissa Dupont. Email marissa@solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off.

Cash donations may be made through GoFundMe.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

New Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group Forming

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

Dialogue group is five sessions, capped at 10 people.

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

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

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

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, May 30 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

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

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05302023-2743?html=true

Items of interest

2 Mayor’s Business
2.2. Presentation – Afro-American Community Collaborative Juneteenth Weekend Event.

4 Motion Reponses
4.1 A) Motion Response – Masses at the Shrine
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24159?fileID=49245

4.1.C) Motion Response – Micro Dog Parks
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24159?fileID=49243

4.1.D) Motion Response – Honoring AAPI Community
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24159?fileID=49244

9 Motions
9.5. C. Jenness – Req. City Mgr. Provide The Council With A Comprehensive Report On City Contractors Broken Down By Race, Gender, Disability And Other Standard EEO Classifications.

9.7. C. Jenness/C. Nuon/C. Mercier – Req. Technology And Utilities SC Meet To Begin Developing A City Wide Cyber-Security Ordinance; Including Adoption Of A Well Known Cyber-Security Framework And Regular Third Party Audits And Reviews Of Policies And Procedures.

9.9. C. Nuon/C. Jenness – Req. City Mgr. Work With Proper Department(S) To Prepare Communication To Lowell Residents Regarding The Cyber-Security Incident; Including Advice On Steps They Can Take To Protect Themselves From The Misuse Of Any Potentially Ex Filtrated Data, Which Could Include Personally Identifiable Information In Possession Of The City.

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

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

Be prepared: Narcan Administration & Overdose Awareness (Narcan Included)

May May 31 6:00-7:30pm
Life Connections Center, 192 Appleton Street

Substance Abuse Community Forum

Thursday, June 1, 6pm
Lowell High School Auditorium

Special Guest Speaker: Chris Herren, former NBA Player and Substance Abuse Speaker

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK is in the running for an award from the We Share a Common Thread Foundation. Once a quarter, the Foundation donates $1500 to a worthy area non-profit as voted by the community. Whoever receives the most votes via their Give a Click site wins. Please vote, once, before June 30.
https://www.jdcu.org/community-about/our-foundation/give-a-click/?#gf_33

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

Next event
Saturday, June 3, 9:00am-12:00pm
Armory Park
46 Westford St, Lowell
1:00-4:00pm Bad Boyz Band with Jasper Crystal Wizard and Saexia

Greater Lowell Pride 2023

Saturday, June 3

10am Flag Raising at City Hall (375 Merrimack St)
10:50am-11:45am Parade, City Hall to Kerouac Park
12:00pm-4:00pm Festival, Kerouac Park (75 Bridge St)

https://www.facebook.com/events/762181502211053

Lowell Fall Election

Solidarity Lowell’s Election Subcommittee gearing up

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

The election schedule for the municipal election has been set. While some candidates have already announced, Tuesday June 6 is the first day nominating papers can be pulled. The last day to submit nominating papers is Tuesday, July 18. At some point after July 18, when the slate of candidates is finalized, Solidarity Lowell will follow their process for endorsing candidates. Once we have selected endorsees, we will begin organizing canvassing events for our endorsees. Want to be a part of that? Contact Lisa or Dee as noted above. Among other things, we will be drawing up a list of questions we want prospective endorsees to answer.

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

Other Events

Grassroots Training Academy

4 sessions left, select Mondays and Wednesdays from June 5-14
Organizer: Mass Alliance

Mass legislature, messaging, campaign planning, social media, press, lobbying, fundraising and more. For more details, and to apply to attend, see http://tinyurl.com/2023AdvocacyTrainingSeries

Homes for All Rent Control and Foreclosure Prevention Lobby Day

Wednesday, June 1, 10 am
State House

Legislative briefing (10 am) + rally (11 am) + grassroots lobbying (12 noon)

National Caucus of Environmental Legislators Plastics Forum (NECL)

Thursday, June 1, 1pm
State House Room 428

The NECL and Chair of the Environment Committee, Senator Rebecca Rausch, are hosting a Plastics Forum. Everyone is invited!

Transfer Fee Coalition Lobby Day

Tuesday, June 6, 11 am – 12pm
State House
RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSesSbaBBThWz6ETbvybWZ71OVM2jN3HR3uKI2VBr5IC1ZmVtQ/viewform

Join the Local Option for Housing Affordability (LOHA) Coalition for a briefing and day of action in support of Rep. Connolly and Sen. Comerford’s H.2747/S.1771 establishing a local option transfer fee to fund affordable housing. Speakers will include advocates, municipal officials, impacted people and housing experts from across the Commonwealth.

Youth Justice Lobby Day

Wednesday, June 7, 2 pm
at the State House
RSVP for pre-training (5/31, 3:30pm, virtual): https://www.cfjj.org/grassroots-training

If you plan to do this, it is suggested you book an appointment with your legislator ahead of time.

State Level Actions

Call On Your Senator to Protect the Fair Share Amendment!

Now that the Budget is passed and moved into Conference Committee to resolve the difference between the Senate and House versions, the Senate will be working on the Governor’s tax cut proposals. There’s still time to tell them to not pass the tax cuts.

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/call-on-your-senator-to-protect-the-fair-share-amendment

Invite Your Legislator to the June 6 Legislative Briefing

The Make Polluters Pay and Put Gas in the Past Campaigns, two top priorities of the Mass Power Forward Coalition, are joining for a double-header Legislative Briefing on June 6th. Use this toolkit and call on your legislator to join us!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13b-_uKuNY2HIcowBUY6Oz6iTzMLHhXNe5S23DFS8pSs/edit

Want to stay up to date on the campaign? Follow @polluterspayma on twitter.

Contact your state senator about facial recognition legislation

An ACLU request. See form for information and script.
https://mobilize.aclum.org/a/face-surveillance-senate-co-sponsor

Massachusetts is Not Disposable Campaign

Progressive Democrats of Massachusetts, on behalf of Just Zero and the Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), are asking us to meet with our legislators before mid-June, on Zoom or in-person. We need them to support a modernized Bottle Bill, a strong Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging bill, bans on plastic grocery bags and Chemical/Advanced Recycling of plastic. Find Fact Sheets on each of these issues here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WWYEsPY-uPYC6WwKYlNSvf8AKbPvxlWX?usp=sharing (The Google Folder)

To Contact the Governor

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

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

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

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

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

May

2023

Next session of Unpacking Whiteness starts soon

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell Hybrid Meeting

Sunday, June 25, 5:30-7pm
In person at Christ Church United, 10 Arlington St, Dracut
Online link: to be announced

Hear the latest news regarding our petition for better treatment of Lowell’s unhoused population, which was presented to the City Council at the April 11 meeting. Speaker to be announced.

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is an asylum-seeker from Togo who we have assisted since he arrived here in 2018.

Cash donations may be made through GoFundMe.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

New Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group Forming

Dialogue group is five sessions, capped at 10 people.

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

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

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

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, May 23 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05232023-2740?html=true

Items of interest

4.2 Informational Items
Update on Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Municipality Equality Index (MEI)
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24104?fileID=49223

Motions

7.2. C. Robinson/C. Gitschier – Req. City Mgr. Draft A Letter On Behalf Of The City Council And Community Stakeholders To Be Sent To State Department Of Housing Newly Appointed Secretary, As Well As, Sheriff Kotoujian, Sen. Cindy Friedman And The “Restoration Center” Team To Explore Feasibility Of Creating A Pilot Program Utilizing The Former Superior Courthouse To Address The Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Homelessness And Housing Crisis Impacting Our Community.

7.3 C. Robinson – Req. Mayor Create A Restorative Center Ad Hoc Committee Focused On Exploration On Utilizing The Superior Courthouse Property.

7.4. C. Robinson – Req. City Mgr. Have DPD Provide GIS Mapped Report On Potential Number, As Well As, Locations Of ADUs If Proposed Change Were To Be Adopted.

Be prepared: Narcan Administration & Overdose Awareness (Narcan Included)

May 24, May 31 6:00-7:30pm
Life Connections Center, 192 Appleton Street

Substance Abuse Community Forum

Thursday, June 1, 6pm
Lowell High School Auditorium

Special Guest Speaker: Chris Herren, former NBA Player and Substance Abuse Speaker

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK is in the running for an award from the We Share a Common Thread Foundation.
Once a quarter, the Foundation donates $1500 to a worthy area non-profit as voted by the community. Whoever receives the most votes via their Give a Click site wins. Please vote, once, before June 30.
https://www.jdcu.org/community-about/our-foundation/give-a-click/?#gf_33

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

Next events – Spring Cleanup and Concert Series

(Note: No event Memorial Day weekend)

Saturday, June 3, 9:00am-12:00pm
Armory Park
46 Westford St, Lowell
1:00-4:00pm Bad Boyz Band with Jasper Crystal Wizard and Saexia

Lowell Fall Election

Solidarity Lowell’s Election Subcommittee gearing up

Other Events

Grassroots Training Academy

5 sessions left, select Mondays and Wednesdays from May 24 – June 14
Organizer: Mass Alliance

Mass legislature, messaging, campaign planning, social media, press, lobbying, fundraising and more. For more details, and to apply to attend, see http://tinyurl.com/2023AdvocacyTrainingSeries

Thrive Act Advocacy Day

Wednesday, May 24, 9:30am-2:30pm
The Boston Society of the New Jerusalem (Church on the Hill),140 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA

RSVP: https://actionnetwork.org/events/thrive-act-advocacy-day?link_id=9&can_id=ee66e076545e936b45bdb6f0eeb2b2ad&source=email-celebrate-teacher-appreciation-week-by-supporting-the-thrive-act&email_referrer=email_1908492&email_subject=celebrate-teacher-appreciation-week-by-supporting-the-thrive-act

Healthy Youth Act Lobby Day

Tuesday, May 30, 10 am
State House
RSVP: https://www.weareplannedparenthoodaction.org/a/healthy-youth-act-lobby-day-2023

An Act relative to healthy youth (S.268/H.544) is a common sense bill that reflects the consensus of the vast majority of MA residents. The bill’s core provision is simple: it will require any public school that already chooses to teach sex ed to provide a medically accurate, age-appropriate, comprehensive sexual health education.

Homes for All Rent Control and Foreclosure Prevention Lobby Day

Wednesday, June 1, 10 am
State House
No RSVP link yet

Legislative briefing (10 am) + rally (11 am) + grassroots lobbying (12 noon)

Transfer Fee Coalition Lobby Day

Tuesday, June 6, 11 am – 12pm
State House
RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSesSbaBBThWz6ETbvybWZ71OVM2jN3HR3uKI2VBr5IC1ZmVtQ/viewform

State Level Actions

There are several asks here. You might want to combine them in one call. Or do each one on separate days.

1) More budget contact with your senator–Vote this week!

Call their office (contact info at end of this section) and just say “Please co-sponsor Amendments #819, #856, and #941 to the Senate budget this week. These amendments would protect the Fair Share victory, build on past progress on juvenile justice reform, and strengthen No Cost Calls language.”

Email them: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/senate-budget-fy2024/

2) Contact your senator to support Budget Amendment #363 re: food insecurity

Call their office (contact info at end of this section) and just say “Please co-sponsor Amendment #363 to the Senate budget this week. This amendment would restore basic nutrition and cash benefits for legally present Massachusetts immigrants, addressing food insecurity among this population.”

3) Invite Your Legislator to the June 6 Legislative Briefing

https://docs.google.com/document/d/13b-_uKuNY2HIcowBUY6Oz6iTzMLHhXNe5S23DFS8pSs/edit

Want to stay up to date on the campaign? Follow @polluterspayma on twitter.

To Contact the Governor

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

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

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

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

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

May

2023

Solidarity Lowell General Meeting This Sunday!

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell Hybrid Meeting SUNDAY!
Sunday, May 21, 5:30-7pm (NOTE date change due to Memorial Day)
In person at Christ Church United, 10 Arlington St, Dracut
For Online Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/s/solidarity-lowell-april-2023-h/1577871892681741/

Hear the latest news regarding our petition for better treatment of Lowell’s unhoused population, which was presented to the City Council at the April 11 meeting. We will also hear from Mark Martinez, Housing Attorney for the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute.

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius
Marius is an asylum-seeker from Togo who we have assisted since he arrived here in 2018.
He and Lillian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, had a baby last year. The baby, Yayrah, is in need of gift cards and monetary donations.

Gift cards can be given to Marissa Dupont.
Email marissa@solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off

Cash donations may be made through GoFundMe.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

Lowell Events & Actions

Ghost Guns, Modifications, Part Sales, and Statutory Enforcement
Tuesday, May 16 at 6-8pm
O’Leary Library Room 222, UMass Lowell (Wilder Street)

State Representative Michael Day and the extended Lowell Delegation will be there to hear from community leaders and members of the public about gun violence in and around Lowell as part of a statewide Firearm Safety Listening Tour. After a panel discussion, we encourage the public to volunteer comments and ask questions.

Next City Council Meeting
Tuesday, May 16 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05162023-2734?html=true

Items of interest

2.3. Communication – Jacquelynn Coles – Juneteenth Holiday Events.

Motion Responses
A) MOTION RESPONSE – NARCAN TRAINING.PDF
CO-OP team to provide NARCAN training for city council.

B) MOTION RESPONSE – STATE ASSETS WITH ATTACHMENTS.PDF
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/24047?fileID=49187|
Identifies state properties in Lowell that could be used for regional homelessness shelter response.

Motions
10.1 C. Nuon – Req. City Mgr. Create A Sustainability Department To Coordinate Efforts Throughout The City That Aim To Meet The Commonwealth’s And The City’s Climate Goals And Create A Plan To Adapt To The Effects Of Climate Change In A Fair, Just And Efficient Manner.

See below for sample email to send to councilors.

Sample email regarding Motion 10.1 above:

Dear Councilor
My name is ________ and I live at (give your address). Please support motion 10.1 at Tuesday’s Council meeting. Lowell needs a Sustainability Department!
Thank you.

Mill City Grows Annual Plant Sale
Saturday May 20, 10am-2pm
UMass Lowell Rist Agriculture Farm, 91 Pawtucket Street

Lowell Litter Krewe
LLK is in the running for an award from the We Share a Common Thread Foundation.
Once a quarter, the Foundation donates $1500 to a worthy area non-profit as voted by the community. Whoever receives the most votes via their Give a Click site wins. Please vote, once, before June 30.
https://www.jdcu.org/community-about/our-foundation/give-a-click/?#gf_33

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

Next events – Spring Cleanup and Concert Series

Saturday, May 20, 9:00am-12:00pm
Muldoon Park
31 Billerica St, South Lowell
1:00pm Rumrunners String Band with Evan Goodrow

Saturday, June 3, 9:00am-12:00pm
Armory Park
46 Westford St, Lowell
1:00-4:00pm Bad Boyz Band with Jasper Crystal Wizard and Saexia

Lowell Fall Election

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

Other Events

Grassroots Training Academy
8 sessions, select Mondays and Wednesdays from May 15-June 14
Organizer: Mass Alliance

Mass legislature, messaging, campaign planning, social media, press, lobbying, fundraising and more. For more details, and to apply to attend, see http://tinyurl.com/2023AdvocacyTrainingSeries

Low-Income Housing Tax Credits And Long-Term Affordability
Friday, May 19, 1-2pm
Presenter: Bipartisan Policy Center, Terwilliger Center for Housing Policy
RSVP for link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/low-income-housing-tax-credits-and-long-term-affordability-tickets-629302820677

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program is the largest and most significant affordable housing program in the United States. Since its inception in 1987, LIHTC has supported the construction or rehabilitation of about 110,000 affordable rental units per year, providing more than 3 million affordable units for low-income families. Since 1990, the federal government has required LIHTC developments to keep units affordable for a minimum of 30 years. Estimates find that nearly half a million current LIHTC units—representing nearly a quarter of the total stock—will reach their 30-year mark by the end of this decade.

With thousands of units across the country already phasing out of this standard, more resources will be needed to maintain and expand the number of affordable homes available to low-income renters. In this webinar, panelists will provide context on the scale of LIHTC affordability phaseouts in coming years, discuss strategies to preserve affordable units for longer time periods or in perpetuity, and highlight bipartisan proposals to strengthen LIHTC.

Thrive Act Advocacy Day
Wednesday, May 24, 9:30am-2:30pm
The Boston Society of the New Jerusalem (Church on the Hill),140 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA

RSVP: https://actionnetwork.org/events/thrive-act-advocacy-day

See next item for more on the THRIVE ACT.

State Level Actions

Thank Your Legislators For Supporting the Thrive Act
The state has been using two interconnected strategies – state takeovers of schools and districts and standardized testing – both in high-stakes ways that have worked against teachers, students, and communities. High-stakes standardized testing harms all students by narrowing the curriculum and, for some students, disrupts their future lives. State takeovers disrupt whole communities’ educational programming and school-to-community connections. Both are political strategies, not educational strategies, and they’re based in part on distrust of teachers and undermining the teaching profession.

The Thrive Act (H.495/S.246), filed by State Representatives Jim Hawkins and Sam Montaño, and State Senators Jo Comerford, Liz Miranda, and Adam Gomez, offers an alternative vision. It replaces the failed receivership model with comprehensive support and improvement plans that address root causes with a whole child approach and clear accountability and benchmarks. And while MCAS would still be used as part of a larger accountability process, the Thrive Act makes graduation dependent on successful completion of coursework, which is a more effective predictor of future learning and life success than standardized tests.

ALL Lowell legislators are cosponsors of the bills in their respective houses. Thank you Lowell delegation.

Invite Your Legislator to the June 6 Legislative Briefing
The Make Polluters Pay and Put Gas in the Past Campaigns, two top priorities of the Mass Power Forward Coalition, are joining for a double-header Legislative Briefing on June 6th. Use this toolkit and call on your legislator to join us!

https://docs.google.com/document/d/13b-_uKuNY2HIcowBUY6Oz6iTzMLHhXNe5S23DFS8pSs/edit

Want to stay up to date on the campaign? Follow @polluterspayma on Twitter.

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

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

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

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

National Actions

Looking for someone who’s trying to do something about gun violence?
Check out Everytown for Gun Safety
https://www.everytown.org/actions/

Join a local chapter, donate, help elect candidates who WILL work for sensible gun safety measures.

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

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

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

May

2023

Congratulations to Coordinating Committee Election Winners

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Coordinating Committee Election Results Are In

Congratulations to newly elected Coordinating Committee members Ryan Hammond, Mitchell Paulin, and Ron Peacetree, and to re-elected members Lisa Arnold, Amy Baranoski, and Marissa Dupont.

Next Solidarity Lowell Hybrid Meeting

Sunday, May 21, 5:30-7pm (NOTE date change due to Memorial Day)
In person at Christ Church United, 10 Arlington St, Dracut
Online link to be announced

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius is an asylum-seeker from Togo who we have assisted since he arrived here in 2018.

He and Lillian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, had a baby last year. The baby, Yayrah, is in need of gift cards and monetary donations.

Gift cards can be given to Marissa Dupont.
Email marissa@solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off

Cash donations may be made through GoFundMe.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting

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

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05092023-2731?html=true

Motions of interest

8.5. C. Scott/C. Gitschier – Req. Mayor Request Our State Delegation File Legislation That Would Bring Into Question The Dover Amendment (M,G.L. Ch. 40A, Section 3), That Was Originally Adopted In 1950.
(This law exempts agricultural, religious, and educational uses from certain zoning restrictions.)

8.8. C. Robinson – Req. City Mgr. Have The Proper Department Provide A Detailed Report On The Impact Of The Behavioral Health Unit Police Collaborative In Lowell.

8.15. C. Nuon – Req. City Council Celebrate The Role Of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians And Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Have Played In Shaping Lowell’s History And The Work Our Communities Continue To Do Today To Address Inequities To Make Lowell A Better Place For All.

8.17.C. Mercier – Req, City Mgr. Accept And Arrange An Invitation From The Lowell CO-OP Team To All City Council Members To Participate In A Narcan Training Session Together, At Their Best Available Time.

8.20.C. Yem – Req. City Mgr. Update The City Council On The MVP Grant Project For An Urban Forest Master Plan And Master Plan For Urban Heat Island Assessment.

8.21.C. Yem – Req. City Mgr. And The Mayor Draft A Letter Urging Massachusetts Senators And Congresswoman Lori Trahan To Support H.R. 8197 “Veterans Equal Access Act” On Behalf Of The Entire City Council.

8.22.C. Rourke/C. Robinson/C. Scott/C. Yem – Req. City Of Lowell Declare Homelessness A Public Health Crisis.

Expose Fake Pregnancy Clinics

Saturday, May 13, 11:00am-1:00pm
Sign up and details: https://mobilize.us/s/pVH5Qi
In partnership with Indivisible Andover

There are so-called Crisis Pregnancy Centers all over this country (at least 30 in Massachusetts!) whose advertising and message are designed to attract people who might be wanting to have an abortion but whose purpose is to do what they can to prevent abortions through delay and misinformation. This Saturday, the day before Mother’s Day, standouts are planned to inform people about the difference between these centers and clinics that provide full reproductive care.

If you’d like to spend a couple of hours LOCALLY standing up for reproductive freedom, sign up at the above link for more information.

Mill City Grows Annual Plant Sale

Saturday May 20, 10am-2pm
UMass Lowell Rist Agriculture Farm, 91 Pawtucket Street

Volunteer Opportunities at Lowell Transitional Living Center

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

From Tyler Bastysk, Volunteer Coordinator, “I believe that our collaboration can bring about meaningful change and benefit those in need… I am more than happy to provide further information about volunteering opportunities, answer any questions, or provide any assistance needed.”

Please contact Tyler at tbastys @ ltlc.org or (774)509-9901

Click here to donate to LTLC:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=TT9PEP2KDCZPC

Lowell Litter Krewe

LLK is in the running for an award from the We Share a Common Thread Foundation.
Once a quarter, the Foundation donates $1500 to a worthy area non-profit as voted by the community. Whoever receives the most votes via their Give a Click site wins. Please vote, once, before June 30.
https://www.jdcu.org/community-about/our-foundation/give-a-click/?#gf_33

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

Next events – Spring Cleanup and Concert Series

Saturday, May13, 9:00am-12:00pm
MacPherson Park, Meet at 980 Bridge St, Centralville
1:00pm Tee & the Gents with Camelia Latin Dance Band and Salsa

Saturday, May20, 9:00am-12:00pm
Muldoon Park
31 Billerica St, South Lowell
1:00pm Rumrunners String Band with Evan Goodrow

Lowell Fall Election

Solidarity Lowell’s Election Subcommittee gearing up

Other Events

Media and Democracy Project and Prof. Bob McChesney

Tuesday, May 9, 7pm

Thought leader and inspiring Professor Bob McChesney will speak with the Media and Democracy Project! Professor McChesney authored “Rich Media Poor Democracy”. He is an expert on media and democracy issues – we will discuss with him his proposed solution to the “local journalism crisis” called the Local Journalism Initiative. We will ask him to discuss the impacts of Fox and NewsCorp on American media and democracy.

A Community Forum with Senator Ed Kennedy

Discussing An Act to Promote Racially Inclusive Curriculum in Schools (S.288/H.542)
Monday, May 15, 6:30-8:00pm
To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIod-6rrDguHtR4Smshd_Bd448Jea3akvXZ

The bill seeks to promote racial and ethnic diversity, equity, and inclusion in K-12 public schools by requiring the inclusion of a racially inclusive curriculum in history and social studies classes. This legislation is an important step towards creating a more equitable education system for all.

Grassroots Training Academy

8 sessions, select Mondays and Wednesdays from May 15-June 14
Organizer: Mass Alliance

Mass legislature, messaging, campaign planning, social media, press, lobbying, fundraising and more. For more details, and to apply to attend, see http://tinyurl.com/2023AdvocacyTrainingSeries

Low-Income Housing Tax Credits And Long-Term Affordability

Friday, May 19, 1-2pm
Presenter: Bipartisan Policy Center, Terwilliger Center for Housing Policy
RSVP for link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/low-income-housing-tax-credits-and-long-term-affordability-tickets-629302820677

Thrive Act Advocacy Day

Wednesday, May 24, 9:30am-2:30pm
The Boston Society of the New Jerusalem (Church on the Hill),140 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA

See next item for more on the THRIVE ACT.

State Level Actions

Thank Your Legislators For Supporting the Thrive Act

The state has been using two interconnected strategies – state takeovers of schools and districts and standardized testing – both in high-stakes ways that have worked against teachers, students, and communities. High-stakes standardized testing harms all students by narrowing the curriculum and, for some students, disrupts their future lives. State takeovers disrupt whole communities’ educational programming and school-to-community connections. Both are political strategies, not educational strategies, and they’re based in part on distrust of teachers and undermining the teaching profession.

ALL Lowell legislators are cosponsors of the bills in their respective houses. Thank you Lowell delegation.

Urge the Governor to Stop Privatization at UMass-Amherst

UMass Amherst Advancement Vice Chancellor Arwen Duffy plans to lay off the entire Advancement division staff—124 state employees. These are the people who host Homecoming, publish UMass Magazine, solicit scholarship donations; as well as perform many other essential functions for UMass students, alumni, and donors. If you believe our state university should be staffed by state employees, join the Professional Staff Union in urging the Governor to tell UMass to stop outsourcing it!

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

Paste in this message (editable to make it your own).

Urgent – prevent mass layoffs at UMass Amherst
I am writing with urgency to ask for your support on behalf of my union siblings at UMass Amherst. UMass Amherst is attempting to eliminate the entire Advancement division staff -124 state employees – and move this work to a private, unaccountable employer. The Advancement division is a core part of the UMass community. These are the staff who provide fundraising and scholarships for students, publish UMass Magazine, and perform many other functions for students, alumni, and donors. Privatization of Advancement is an attack on every UMass community member. Public education belongs to the public. We, our families, and the greater UMass community deserve better.

The Massachusetts State Treasurer has refuted UMass’ claims that privatization is required by state pension law. Nonetheless, UMass is poised to privatize 124 state positions. U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, U.S. Congressman Jim McGovern, State Senator Jo Comerford, State Representative Mindy Domb, and numerous others have called for them to abandon their privatization bid. Yet, as of today’s writing, UMass continues to barrel ahead.

We need you to speak up now. This issue has become an embarrassment for those of us who work, study, and claim community here. I elected you to be a defender of public education. Now, I am asking you to deliver on that promise.

You can also write to officials at the school:

Arwen Duffy, Advancement Vice Chancellor
(413) 545-4200
arwen.duffy@umass.edu

Kumble Subbaswamy, Chancellor
(413) 545-2211
chancellorswamy@umass.edu

Marty Meehan, President
(617) 287-7050
umasspresident@umassp.edu

Protect new Fair Share Amendment and state revenue in the FY24 Budget

From Jonathan Cohn, Policy Director at Progressive Massachusetts:

Last week, Massachusetts reported April state tax revenues were $1.6 billion short of what officials originally projected.

As Raise Up Massachusetts said in a statement, “Senators should treat this report as a red light. Rather than cutting taxes for the wealthy, they should focus on making sustainable investments in affordability for working families.”

In the face of a possible economic downturn and a debt-ceiling showdown (and possible looming government shutdown) on the federal level, continuing to move forward with tax cuts for the ultra-rich and large corporations isn’t just inequitable — it’s reckless, setting our state up for deep cuts to necessary programs and services.

Can you write to your state senator today about opposing tax cuts for the ultra-rich and large corporations?
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/call-on-your-senator-to-protect-the-fair-share-amendment

Even better: Make a call! You can find your senator’s phone number below and a phone script at https://raiseupma.us/script.

And when you’re done: Can you think of three friends to reach out to as well?

To Contact the Governor

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

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

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Looking for someone who’s trying to do something about gun violence?

Check out Everytown for Gun Safety
https://www.everytown.org/actions/

Join a local chapter, donate, help elect candidates who WILL work for sensible gun safety measures.

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

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

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

May

2023

Volunteer at the Lowell Transitional Living Center

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell Hybrid Meeting
Sunday, May 21, 5:30-7pm (NOTE date change due to Memorial Day)
In person at Christ Church United, 10 Arlington St, Dracut
Online link to be announced

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Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius
Marius is an asylum-seeker from Togo who we have assisted since he arrived here in 2018.He and Lillian, an asylum-seeker from the Dominican Republic, had a baby last year. The baby, Yayrah, is in need of gift cards and monetary donations.

Gift cards can be given to Marissa Dupont.
Email marissa@solidaritylowell.com to coordinate drop-off

Cash donations may be made through GoFundMe.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius
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Lowell Events & Actions

Next City Council Meeting
Tuesday, May 2 at 6:30pm, at City Hall and online

See agenda for details:
https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04252023-2706?html=true

Items of interest
Due to the cyberattack last week, the agenda is very short.

Motion 6.1.
C. Gitschier – Req. City Mgr. Have The Law Department Prepare A Vote To Place An Non-Binding Referendum Ballot Question Regarding Zoning For Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) For Upcoming Election.

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Volunteer Opportunities at Lowell Transitional Living Center
The LTLC is in need of volunteers. This is another venue where Solidarity Lowell members can show their support for our unhoused neighbors.

Please contact Tyler at tbastys @ ltlc.org or (774)509-9901

Click here to donate to LTLC:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=TT9PEP2KDCZPC

–

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

Next events
Spring Cleanup and Concert Series
Saturday, May13, 9:00am-12:00pm
MacPherson Park, Meet at 980 Bridge St, Centralville
1:00pm Tee & the Gents with Camelia Latin Dance Band and Salsa

–

Lowell Fall Election

Campaign Treasurers Needed
Several progressive campaigns are seeking experienced treasurers.
If interested, please email Lisa Arnold at likarnold @ gmail.com (delete spaces when using emails cited)

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

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Other Events

Higher Ed for All Speakout
Wednesday, May 3, 12 pm
at the State House
RSVP: https://www.mobilize.us/massteacher/event/558053

Celebrate graduates and ensure that debt-free public higher ed is an option for future generations! The Massachusetts State House will soon be considering the Cherish Act (S.816;H.1260) and Debt-Free Bill (S.823;H.1265). Collectively, these bills call for debt-free public higher education, increased student supports, better wages and working conditions, and green/healthy buildings.

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Mass-Care Lobby Day
Thursday, May 4, 10 am
at the State House
RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyZpL_B16ShQdCEmDPbPRW5cB4uXlqLIJnniZZOKrx3bqUtA/viewform

Join activists from across the state in meeting with legislators about truly achieving health care for all.

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Media and Democracy Project and Prof. Bob McChesney
Tuesday, May 9, 7pm

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A Community Forum with Senator Ed Kennedy
Discussing An Act to Promote Racially Inclusive Curriculum in Schools (S.288/H.542)
Monday, May 15, 6:30-8:00pm
To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIod-6rrDguHtR4Smshd_Bd448Jea3akvXZ

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Grassroots Campaign Training
Saturday/Sunday, May 20-21, 2023
Will be held on Zoom.
Organizer: Mass Alliance

Cost: $90 (Sliding scale and scholarships are available. You can also pay it forward for someone else to attend.)
Sign up at: http://www.tinyurl.com/grassrootstraining2023

This intensive two-day training introduces future campaign leaders, activists, and candidates to the theory and practice behind successful grassroots campaigning.

Campaign workers with all levels of experience and potential candidates for any level of government and at any stage in the process (from curious to ready to take the plunge) are welcome.

Attendees will learn from some of the best progressive campaign operatives in Massachusetts. Sessions will include field organizing, message development, working with the press, and other time-tested tactics for winning campaigns.

The workshop is great training for full-time paid work on campaigns, people wanting to volunteer for campaigns, leaders thinking of running for office, or issue and neighborhood activists who are hoping to enhance their understanding of how to influence the outcome of campaigns.

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Grassroots Training Academy
8 sessions, select Mondays and Wednesdays from May 15-June 14

Mass legislature, messaging, campaign planning, social media, press, lobbying, fundraising and more. For more details, and to apply to attend, see http://tinyurl.com/2023AdvocacyTrainingSeries
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State Level Actions

Urge your legislators to pass worker-friendly legislation this session
In observance of May Day, a day for recognizing worker solidarity around the world, Progressive Massachusetts Policy Director Jonathan Cohn urges us to write our legislators and ask them to pass worker-supportive legislation.

Here are just a few things the Massachusetts Legislature could do this session to strengthen workers’ rights:Raising the minimum wage to $20 per hour to bring it closer to a living wage, and then indexing it to inflation so that its value doesn’t erode over time
Strengthening enforcement of wage theft laws and holding companies accountable for wage theft committed by subcontractors
Extending collecting bargaining rights to State House staff
Requiring employers to publicly report their wage data, to provide information essential to measuring our progress toward racial and gender wage equity
See here for an editable email to send:
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/may-day-2023/

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Week of Action to Stop the New Women’s Prison
http://bit.ly/HDRweekofaction
Families for Justice as Healing is leading a week of action to demand a stop to the women’s prison project. Please take a few moments every day this week to make calls and emails to apply pressure to key decision makers! Check this link every day for scripts and action steps:

Monday – Call and Email HDR
Tuesday – Call and Email EOPSS
Wednesday – Social Media Storm
Thursday- Stay tuned
Friday – Call your legislators to Pass the Prison Moratorium

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Ask your Legislators to Restore Voting Rights to Prisoners Incarcerated for Felonies
Did you know that felony prisoners used to be able to vote in Massachusetts? That right should not have been taken away. It needs to be restored, via a constitutional amendment. Keeping prisoners engaged with their communities contributes to rehabilitation.

Use this handy form to write your legislators. (Rep. Howard is already a co-sponsor.)
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/democracy-behind-bars

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Protect new Fair Share Amendment and state revenue in the FY24 Budget
Our state reps voted to support the proposed tax cuts for the wealthy. Our senators have not yet voted.

Write to your state senator: Let them know that it’s not okay to undermine Fair Share by giving big tax cuts to the rich. Massachusetts voters were clear: we want the rich to pay their fair share so that we can invest in public education and infrastructure. The Fair Share amendment was intended to raise additional revenue in order to bring our schools and transportation up to standard, not to replace revenue taken away by a tax cut.

You can specifically ask them to:

TARGET any estate tax reform exclusively to moderate estates, with no tax breaks to large multi-million-dollar estates;
REJECT the proposed cut to the short-term capital gains tax that would overwhelmingly benefit wealthy investors;
REJECT expanding the ‘single sales factor apportionment’ that would give a massive tax break to large, profitable multi-state corporations;
USE THOSE SAVINGS to invest in affordable housing, childcare, and reliable transportation.
Contact information appears at the end of this section. Follow up your call with an email for maximum effect.
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To Contact the Governor
Governor’s Office of Constituent Services (617) 725-4005
Call between 9am and 5pm and leave a message.
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Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

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National Actions

Looking for someone who’s trying to do something about gun violence?
Check out Everytown for Gun Safety
https://www.everytown.org/actions/

Join a local chapter, donate, help elect candidates who WILL work for sensible gun safety measures.
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Our Federal Legislators’ Info

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

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