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

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, August 22, 5:30pm – 7pm
Save the date!

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, but until he receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.
Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

Local Events and Actions

Deadline for candidates to file signatures

August 3, 5pm
City Council and School Committee candidates have until Aug. 3 at 5 pm to return their 150 signatures.

State-level Events and Actions

Change the Democratic Party Platform

Info from posts from Jeanne Krieger, Progressive Democrats of Massachusetts & Larry Pareles, Indivisible Massachusetts

As you know, the MA Legislature does NOT currently operate in a democratic and transparent manner. The concentration of power in the hands of leadership produces a closed, hierarchical organization that disempowers rank-and-file Members and the public. But this August we have an organizing opportunity available only once every four years: we can change the official platform of the Massachusetts Democratic Party.

Progressive Democrats of MA (PDM) and others are proposing adding a plank to the Democratic Party platform calling for reform of the Legislature. Testimony advocating for this plank can be presented in writing or at hearings being held between Aug. 2 and 14. You can find proposed language, draft testimony, and a link to the Democratic Party site for registering to participate in a hearing and for submitting written testimony on the Progressive Democracts website at https://www.progressivedemsofmass.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/PDM_Dem_Platform_Change_Flyer_v3.pdf

The goal is to get the good governance reforms at the center of The People’s House campaign explicitly included in the Party platform. This would be great leverage in the battle for State House reform – if the MA Democratic Party explicitly supports transparency measures, it becomes much harder for the Democrats in the State House to oppose it.

We encourage you to submit testimony to the platform process. You may also want to advocate for keeping the last 2 bullets in the 2017 platform’s Ethics and Transparency section that address the operation of the Legislature, pages 7-8, https://massdems.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2017-Platform-Massachusetts-Democratic-Party.pdf

All registered Democrats may testify. If you’re not registered as a Democrat, but would like to be, you can register or revise your registration at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr/ .

Never testified before, or even attended a Mass Dems meeting? No worries! Here is a handy Platform Testimony Toolkit https://tinyurl.com/yzuacf4f. This has everything you need to make your voice heard in this process, including the official recommended platform “planks” and a sample script you can use to testify orally.

If you do testify, in writing or at a virtual hearing, please let Progressive Democrats know so they can track the number of supporters for use in advocacy later in the process. Please email them  at info@progressivedemsofmass.org email to let them know that you testified.

You can submit testimony in two ways:

Attend a virtual Platform Hearing and testify orally. All hearings are during the first two weeks of August. Check out the hearing dates and times below. Lowell is Congressional District 3.

Submit written testimony (i.e. a PDF of this document https://tinyurl.com/3558wfbk) through this form https://tinyurl.com/nj33wt33. Note: the deadline to submit written testimony is August 14th. Even if you can’t attend any of the hearings, please take a minute to submit written testimony.

This effort is all about volume. If dozens of people show up at these hearings asking for the exact same planks, it will make a splash that they can’t ignore.

MassDems CD-2/CD-3 Platform Hearing

Wednesday, August 4, 6:30 PM
Register to attend remotely: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZclduisqTkrGdHfrFAyzoaPpLWJih9ulsY3

Registered MA Democrats may offer testimony on the 2021 MDP Platform.

MassDems All Districts Platform Hearing

Saturday, August 7, 10 AM
Register to attend remotely: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYld-uorT0pGdPnj44q1ccj8iRWxOhFz2Qu

Registered MA Democrats may offer testimony on the 2021 MDP Platform.

Fair Share Amendment Pledge Drive

Raise Up Mass is kicking off the Fair Share Amendment campaign early with a pledge card drive! The Fair Share Amendment, which has already secured its spot on next year’s ballot, would create a surtax of 4% on income above $1 million to create a dedicated fund for education and transportation spending. You can sign on to the Solidarity Lowell digital pledge card at: https://raiseupma.us/solidaritylowell.

– – – –
Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden@mahouse.gov  617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov  617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen@mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov 617-722-1612

Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 0213

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest, please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our June meeting: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LzPJupD5TZmWn3saGi2iwkxIEVPbTwZP_NVAnqewkyI/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our June meeting: https://youtu.be/Qx3YWeCtBNw

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

 

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

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, August 22, 5:30pm – 7pm
Save the date!

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, but until he receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.
Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

Local Events and Actions

VIRTUAL 350 MA Climate Change Forum

Thursday, July 29, 7-8 pm 
Register for a link to attend at: https://pollardml.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/virtual-climate-change-program/

The Pollard Library is holding a virtual climate forum featuring members of 350 MA of Greater Lowell.  350MA of Greater Lowell is a Chapter of 350 Mass, A Better Future Project. Chapters work together to organize their communities, mobilize their friends and neighbors, and hold their elected officials accountable in the fight for 100% renewable cities and a fossil free future. Lowell chapter members work locally to end the dependence on fossil fuels and foster a clean energy future! The group is open to all residents of the greater Lowell area interested in fighting climate change.

Chapter members Win Flint, Bob Wald, Jay Mason and Bern Kosicki will share about ongoing efforts and ways that you can get involved! You can be an activist even if you don’t carry a sign.

State-level Events and Actions

MassDems CD-2/CD-3 Platform Hearing

Wednesday, August 4, 6:30 PM
Register to attend remotely
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZclduisqTkrGdHfrFAyzoaPpLWJih9ulsY3

Registered MA Democrats may offer testimony on the 2021 MDP Platform.

MassDems All Districts Platform Hearing

Saturday, August 7, 10 AM
Register to attend remotely
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYld-uorT0pGdPnj44q1ccj8iRWxOhFz2Qu

Registered MA Democrats may offer testimony on the 2021 MDP Platform.

Anti-Racism, Equity, and Justice in K-12 Education

Forum hosted by Senator Jamie Eldridge

Thursday July 29, 2021, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM.
Racism has existed in our society for hundreds of years.  If we want to fight racism at its fundamental level, we need to educate our children early. Recognizing the history, culture, and contribution of our ethnic groups is key in addressing racial equity in our society.

MA bills S365 and H584: “An Act relative to Anti-racism, Equity, and Justice in Education” would create a Commission to develop this K-12 curriculum.

Please join this forum hosted by Senator Eldridge to learn about the bill and to hear from students, educators, legislators, and community leaders. Interact with expert panelists from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Please RSVP:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0l-0ubJDS8qOKVNmpKaTpA

For a summary of the bills, please read the Summary Fact Sheet of the bill:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XK0OwhfsHpM_db8WEXK2acW7X6GlHlf1/view

Also please follow bill sponsors on Facebook fb.com/Care4EduEquity and email  Care4EduEquity@gmail.com to stay informed on this issue.

Email your legislators to support alternative emergency services

This is the bill that will fund alternatives to law enforcement response to 911 calls. The ACES bill — An Act to Create Alternatives for Community Emergency Services (S.1552 / H.2519), filed by Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz and Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa — would direct the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to establish and oversee the Alternatives for Community Emergency Services Grant Program (A.C.E.S.) to increase the availability of non-law-enforcement, unarmed community-based response options for calls to 911.

More information: https://progressivemass.com/aces2021

Sample script
Too often, armed police officers are called in to respond to situations that they are not equipped to handle, situations that are better handled by someone with an expertise in social work or mental health or someone from the community itself. Shifting such calls away from police and towards alternative response programs ensures that situations do not escalate and that people can best be connected to the services that they need.

I urge you to co-sponsor S.1552/H.2519: An Act to Create Alternatives for Community Emergency Services (ACES), filed by Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz and Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa.

Fortunately, the American Rescue Plan recently passed in DC provides new funding for states to set up such alternative crisis response programs. Massachusetts should embrace the opportunity.

Thank you.

– – – –
Contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden@mahouse.gov  617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov  617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen@mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov 617-722-1612

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

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our June meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LzPJupD5TZmWn3saGi2iwkxIEVPbTwZP_NVAnqewkyI/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our June meeting:
https://youtu.be/Qx3YWeCtBNw
—-

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

 

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

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Fourth Annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue and Fundraiser for Marius!

Sunday, July 25, 5:30pm
205 10th Street, Lowell

This is a potluck event. Please sign up on Meal Train: https://www.mealtrain.com/potlucks/62m10d

The Solidarity Lowell Coordinating Committee will supply burgers, hot dogs, veggie options, and buns.

This is also a fundraiser for Marius, the Togolese asylum-seeker we are supporting as part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network. Marius has recently signed a lease on an apartment and though he is getting financial assistance from RAFT, he needs additional help from us for food and furniture, as well as continued legal aid. Anything you can contribute would be greatly appreciated! We will accept cash at the event or you can Venmo @owlnerd or CashApp $gollygee17

Many thanks to Win Flint for hosting!

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, but until he receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

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

Local Events and Actions

Climate Cafe

Wednesday, July 14, 7pm-8:30pm
Register here for the link: https://350mass.betterfutureproject.org/climate_cafe_kick_off

Are you concerned about climate change?  Are you concerned for your kids’ future?  Would you like a safe place to talk over your concerns with like-minded people? The Lowell chapter of 350 Massachusetts is holding a “climate cafe” where you can do just that.

State-level Events and Actions

Urge your legislator to support new bill addressing racism through education

Racism has existed for hundreds of years in our society.  If we want to fight racism at its fundamental level, we must educate our children early.

MA bills S365 and H584: “An Act relative to anti-racism, equity, and justice in education” were proposed to address the incomplete education in our public school system that perpetuates historical racial inequities which have profoundly harmed the physical and mental health of BIPOC communities and threaten our democracy. To advance the bills, we need a majority of the 160 state representatives and of the 40 state senators in the MA State Legislature to vote yes in this legislative session.

Please take a few seconds to simply send a pre-written email to your legislator to ask him/her to support these bills today.
Click here to email your legislator Ethnic studies and Anti-Racism in K-12 Education – Action Network

For a summary of the bills, please read
Summary Fact Sheet of bill

Please follow bill sponsors on FaceBook fb.com/care4aapi.
Email coalition.care.aapi@gmail.com to stay informed on this issue.

H/t Shaw Yang Indivisible Acton – News Magic Team

– – – –

Please contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano@mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden@mahouse.gov  617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard@mahouse.gov  617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen@mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov 617-722-1612

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

National Events and Actions

Urge businesses to support S.1, For the People Act Senate Version

In June, over 90 companies, including Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s, signed a letter to Congress in support of the For the People Act. Please ask other businesses that you patronize or work for to join them by sharing this link: https://forthepeopleact.support/ that includes a copy of the letter and a form they can fill out to indicate their support.

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our June meeting: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LzPJupD5TZmWn3saGi2iwkxIEVPbTwZP_NVAnqewkyI/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our June meeting: https://youtu.be/Qx3YWeCtBNw

—-

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

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

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting: Summer Barbecue and Fundraiser

Sunday, July 25, 5:30pm
205 10th Street, Lowell

Join us for the 4th Annual Solidarity Lowell Summer Barbecue and Fundraiser for Marius!

This is a potluck event. Please sign up on Meal Train: https://www.mealtrain.com/potlucks/62m10d

The Solidarity Lowell Coordinating Committee will supply burgers, hot dogs, veggie options, and buns.

This is also a fundraiser for Marius, the Togolese asylum-seeker we are supporting as part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network. Marius has recently signed a lease on an apartment and though he is getting financial assistance from RAFT, he needs additional help from us for food and furniture, as well as continued legal aid. Anything you can contribute would be greatly appreciated! We will accept cash at the event or you can Venmo @owlnerd or CashApp $gollygee17

Many thanks to Win Flint for hosting!

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, but until he receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

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

 

State-level Events and Actions

SAVE DEMOCRACY: ACT NOW!

Rally with Concord Indivisible
Saturday, July 10, 10:00 a.m. 
Monument Square, Concord

Concord Indivisible, Indivisible Acton Area, and multiple partner organizations will rally in Concord Center July 10 to support the For the People Act and the freedom of all eligible citizens to vote. Democracy is in the crosshairs, as states across the nation brazenly pass laws that will keep many eligible citizens from voting — especially citizens of color. Recent Supreme Court decisions have only made federal election reform more urgent. If we do not protect every citizen’s freedom to vote, the democratic institutions we cherish will not stand, and there will be little hope of moving forward on racial justice and other key progressive issues.

The rally, part of Indivisible’s Deadline for Democracy project, will take place in Concord’s Monument Square. Key activists – including Deb Paul of Massachusetts Indivisible and ACLU Massachusetts Executive Director Carol Rose – will give updates on the fight to protect our vote. There will be opportunities to sign up to write postcards, make phone calls, text, and post on social media. Plan to bring signs and MAKE SOME NOISE!

Partner sponsors for this event include Solidarity Lowell, Swing Blue Alliance/Swing Left Greater Boston, Indivisible Acton Area, Reclaim Our Democracy, the Concord Democratic Town Committee, and the Lincoln Democratic Town Committee. An RSVP (https://tinyurl.com/raz33rhc) is encouraged to enhance planning. Please share information about the rally widely with others who may be interested. Democracy cannot wait!

Get involved in the Redistricting Process
Redistricting Hearing for MA CD3

Thursday, July 8, 6:00 – 11:00 PM 
https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/3744

As we learned from Marissa Dupont in our last general meeting, the Special Joint Committee on Redistricting will hold a virtual hearing for residents of Congressional District 3, which includes Lowell, on Thursday July 8 at 6pm. Tanekwah Hinds (she/her/hers), Racial Justice Community Advocate, American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts, also reminded us of this.

As Marissa explained during the meeting, district lines are redrawn every ten years, based on the Census. As Ms. Hinds explained, “How district lines are drawn influences who runs for public office and who is elected. Elected representatives make decisions on issues that are important to our lives. We [need to] advocat[e] for a transparent redistricting process that equitably represents BIPOC (Black, indigenous, people of color) communities, low-income people and immigrants in Massachusetts. 10 years ago, the community-based redistricting process created the first majority BIPOC Congressional District which Ayanna Pressley now represents. We can create more opportunities for people who reflect Massachusetts demographics to represent our needs.”

The state legislature is holding hearings to get input from community members on this process. The hearing for our district is on July 8 (see above). You can get involved and even testify.

Testify virtually and provide live testimony during the hearing. Use the Sign Up Form at https://tinyurl.com/pd8c8hmp.

To submit written testimony, use the Contact the Committee form on the Special Joint Committee on Redistricting website:  https://malegislature.gov/Redistricting/Contact.

Attend the hearing through the livestream on the Legislative Website https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/3744.

Check out the sections below for a testimony template https://tinyurl.com/a6t25bbf and talking points; Drawing Democracy Coalition’s instructions and suggested talking points https://tinyurl.com/s8fzvjd3.

Contact Tanekwah Hinds (thinds@aclum.org), the Racial Justice Community Advocate at the ACLU of MA, for questions on how to give testimony and redistricting advocacy.

For questions on the logistics of the hearing, contact committee staff with any questions at (617) 722-2014. Please be advised that the schedule and agenda are subject to change at the discretion of the Chairs.

Want to Help Get More Transparency in the State House?

Join ActOnMass’s The People’s House campaign

The People’s House Text Banking
Co-hosted with Sunrise Boston
Tuesday, July 6, 2021 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Join volunteers of the People’s House campaign to text voters and build the movement for State House reform.
Please note Training for newcomers is at 5:30. The text bank begins at 6:00.
Sign Up Now: https://secure.everyaction.com/_cwMPEy0BUOc8n2OkZtVJw2

– – – –
Please contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)
(replace the “at” and extra spaces with “@”)

House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano at mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka at masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden at mahouse.gov  617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard at mahouse.gov  617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom at mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry at mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen at mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy at masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett at masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge at masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold at masenate.gov 617-722-1612

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

 

National Events and Actions

Activist Texting is Alive and Well!

Check out the new Texting Clearinghouse!
Political campaigns are getting active now with renewed interest in political activist texting. Texting is a powerful and impactful way to reach voters since people usually read their texts. Texting programs can reach huge numbers of people quickly and easily, and texting is fun too. We can text with people for one-on-one personal conversations, while keeping our own information private. Texting speeds communication, reaches many people, and gets results which can really make a difference.

To help novice and advanced texters alike, the IMC Texting Action Team compiled an updated listing of active progressive texting organizations with links to their campaigns.

Now that S.1: For the People Act is coming before the Senate, Common Cause and other organizations are texting to support this very important bill, and you can help. Please visit our texting clearinghouse where you can get help and start texting soon.
You will find lots of helpful information about activist texting by clicking HERE: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1n4mDzMyqy9-ZfbQc40U6u1K75Tmn5-e98f05iEj1Tc8/edit
(h/t Indivisible Mass Coalition, Texting Action Team)

Urge businesses to support S.1, For the People Act Senate Version

In June, over 90 companies, including Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s, signed a letter to Congress in support of the For the People Act. Please ask other businesses that you patronize or work for to join them by sharing this link: https://forthepeopleact.support/ that includes a copy of the letter and a form they can fill out to indicate their support.

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our June meeting: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LzPJupD5TZmWn3saGi2iwkxIEVPbTwZP_NVAnqewkyI/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our June meeting: https://youtu.be/Qx3YWeCtBNw
—-

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

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

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Marius, the Togolese asylum-seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring, is in need of housing. With the sanctuary space still under construction and the couple he is staying with starting a family, he needs another place to live. If you or someone you know has a spare room, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com

Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, but until he receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

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

 

Local Events and Actions

Community Vigil for Those Lost to COVID-19

Tuesday, June 29, 6:00pm
Outside City Hall

The City of Lowell is hosting a community vigil to honor Lowell residents who passed away due to COVID-19. The ceremony will take place outside of City Hall on Tuesday, June 29 at 6:00 PM. 319 flags will be placed in the lawn of City hall to symbolize each life lost in Lowell.

Hold UMass Lowell Accountable for NeoNazi on Campus

https://tinyurl.com/48j44xzx
At least 11,450 have signed this Change.org petition which says that UMass Lowell has been protecting a Neonazi UMass Lowell student on grounds of freedom of speech , even though some of the behavior and speech is said to violate the Student Code of Conduct, and some of it may be openly criminal (participation in the January 6 insurrection).

 

State-level Events and Actions

Want to Help Get More Transparency in the State House?

Join ActOnMass’s The People’s House campaign
https://actonmass.org/the-campaign
Click on the volunteer events button to sign up for texting, phonebanking and (when it gets more reasonably cooler) canvassing.

Week of Action: The People’s House Textbanking
June 30, 2021 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Join volunteers of the People’s House campaign to text voters and build the movement for State House reform!
Sign Up Now: https://secure.everyaction.com/GbiZi3HviEW_S02ALrjLIA2

Democracy Denied Town Hall re Incarceration and Voting
Wednesday, June 30, 6 PM
RSVP at bit.ly/june30townhall.
A town hall discussion on hyper-incarceration’s effect on political power, and the movement to ensure democracy does not stop at prisons and jails.
From Jonathan Cohn, Progressive Massachusetts, via News-Magic

Help Get the Work and Family Mobility Act out of Committee

The Joint Committee on Transportation recently held a virtual public hearing for the Work and Family Mobility Act (H.3456 / S.2289), legislation that will enable all qualified state residents to apply for a Massachusetts driver’s license regardless of their immigration status. A video of the powerful testimony presented at the hearing can be found at: https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/3752 .
Now, you can help get this legislation passed by asking legislators to vote the bill out of committee favorably. You can email members of the committee using this link: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/email-the-joint-transportation-committee
and please also contact your own state legislators (see contacts at end of this section) and ask them to urge committee members to act favorably on this legislation.
h/t Lisa Baci, Indivisible Mass Coalition

Tell Senator Kennedy to support reprecincting reform

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/support-the-reprecincting-bill?source=direct_link&
The title of the page refers to reps, but the House has already passed the bill. It is our Senators who still need to act on reforms that would help speed up the redistricting process to make up for time lost to late release of Census figures.

Redistricting Hearing for MA CD3

Thursday, July 8, 6:00 – 11:00 PM 
https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/3744
The State Legislature’s Special Joint Committee on Redistricting will hold a virtual hearing for residents of the 3rd Congressional District (CD3). This hearing provides an opportunity for area residents to offer their opinions on local and community interests that the Committee should consider on the division of the Commonwealth into 9 Congressional Districts, 40 State Senate Districts, 160 State Representative Districts, and 8 Councillor Districts.
There is a link on the above page to sign up If you want to provide oral testimony.
If you only want to view the hearing, it will be broadcast on  Malegislature.gov  and there is a link to that on the above page as well.

– – – –
Please contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(Find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)
(replace the “at” and extra spaces with “@”)

House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano at mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka at masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden at mahouse.gov  617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard at mahouse.gov  617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom at mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry at mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen at mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy at masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett at masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge at masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold at masenate.gov 617-722-1612

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

 

National Events and Actions

Urge businesses to support S.1, For the People Act Senate Version

In June, over 90 companies, including Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s, signed a letter to Congress in support of the For the People Act. Please ask other businesses that you patronize or work for to join them by sharing this link: https://forthepeopleact.support/ that includes a copy of the letter and a form they can fill out to indicate their support.

 

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our June meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LzPJupD5TZmWn3saGi2iwkxIEVPbTwZP_NVAnqewkyI/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our June meeting:https://youtu.be/Qx3YWeCtBNw

—-

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

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

 

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Local Events and Actions

Solidarity Lowell General Meeting THIS SUNDAY

Sunday, June 27, 5:30pm
Marissa Dupont will present an update on “Drawing Democracy” State Redistricting (redrawing election districts based on the 2020 Census data). There will also be a presentation on the Fair Share Amendment (a proposed additional tax on incomes above $1 million).

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83962190050?pwd=QTlva3J5T3VyeWlNeVdSUG9ya2tGdz09

Meeting ID: 839 6219 0050
Passcode: 548436
Dial in: 301 715 8592 or 646 558 8656

 

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius — UPDATE

Marius, the Togolese asylum-seeker whom the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN) is sponsoring, is in need of housing. With the sanctuary space still under construction and the couple he is staying with starting a family, he needs another place to live. If you or someone you know has a spare room, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com

Marius has retained an immigration lawyer, filed an application for asylum, and successfully moved his case to the Boston immigration courts from El Paso, but until he receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

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

Community Vigil for Those Lost to COVID-19

Tuesday, June 29, 6:00pm
Outside City Hall

The City of Lowell is hosting a community vigil to honor Lowell residents who passed away due to COVID-19. The ceremony will take place outside of City Hall on Tuesday, June 29 at 6:00 PM. 319 flags will be placed in the lawn of City hall to symbolize each life lost in Lowell.

Merrimack Valley Project House Party

Thursday, June 24, 7pm
Fundraiser in support of all the work MVP does!
For more information: https://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/
To attend:
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/98088588722
Meeting ID: 980 8858 8722
One tap mobile +13126266799,,98088588722# US (Chicago) +16468769923,,98088588722# US (New York)

 

State-level Events and Actions

Want to Help Get More Transparency in the State House?

Join ActOnMass’s The People’s House campaign

The People’s House Textbanking, Co-hosted by Sunrise Boston
June 22, 2021 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Join volunteers of the People’s House campaign to text voters and build the movement for State House reform. *Please note* Training for newcomers is at 5:30. The text bank begins at 6:00.
https://secure.everyaction.com/Hg-5tnpkJEeVme1tQUCDkA2

 

Public Hearing on the Work and Family Mobility Act
Wednesday, June 23 2:00pm – 4:00pm
The state legislature’s Joint Committee on Transportation (https://malegislature.gov/Committees/Detail/J27) has scheduled a virtual public hearing for the Work and Family Mobility Act on Wednesday, June 23 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM. The Work and Family Mobility Act will enable all qualified state residents to apply for a Massachusetts driver’s license regardless of immigration status. Details on the bill and to sign up to testify (deadline June 23) can be found at https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/3752 .

The People’s House Textbanking
June 23, 2021 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Join volunteers of the People’s House campaign to text voters and build the movement for State House reform. *Please note* Training for newcomers is at 5:30. The text bank begins at 6:00.
https://secure.everyaction.com/OlGnch6OOkKaA16iYSF-lQ2

The People’s House Virtual Art Build
June 24, 2021 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
What’s a rally without eye-catching and clever signs? Join The People’s House staff as we break out arts and crafts supplies to make signs in anticipation of our rallies across the state on Sunday 6/27. Feel free to pop in to brainstorm, hang out with us, or just say hi!
https://secure.everyaction.com/qXgJ99OTJUidCmSi2nKIDQ2

 

Rally for The People’s House – Beacon Hill
June 27, 2021 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133
With only a week or two until the House Rules vote, it’s time to show Beacon Hill that the people of Massachusetts believe in democracy, and won’t settle for anything less. Join hundreds of people across the state as we show our support for common-sense rules reform. Bring signs, water, sunscreen, and of course, your friends! Location: the State House steps.
https://secure.everyaction.com/nLlu5_VqFUCXxua1siOxZg2

Massachusetts Housing Justice Forum

June 23, 7PM
To register: bit.ly/homes4mass
Sponsored by Mass Call2Action and over a dozen Democratic committees across Massachusetts.

Speakers will touch upon the topics of social housing, community land trusts, tenants’ rights and protections, and current pieces of legislation at the state level. We’ll end the night with a brief Q&A.

All registrants will receive a follow-up email including a link to the recorded event, additional information from our speakers, and other ways to get and stay involved in pushing for more equitable housing policy in Massachusetts.

Via News-MAGIC

 

Redistricting Hearing for MA CD3

Thursday, July 8, 6:00 – 11:00 PM 
https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/3744
The State Legislature’s Special Joint Committee on Redistricting will hold a virtual hearing for residents of the 3rd Congressional District (CD3). This hearing provides an opportunity for area residents to offer their opinions on local and community interests that the Committee should consider on the division of the Commonwealth into 9 Congressional Districts, 40 State Senate Districts, 160 State Representative Districts, and 8 Councillor Districts.
There is a link on the above page to sign up If you want to provide oral testimony.
If you only want to view the hearing, it will be broadcast on  Malegislature.gov  and there is a link to that on the above page as well.

– – – –
To contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)
(find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
(replace the “at” and extra spaces with “@”)

House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano at mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka at masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden Thomas.Golden at mahouse.gov  617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard Vanna.Howard at mahouse.gov  617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078
Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom at mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry at mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen at mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy at masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett at masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge at masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold at masenate.gov 617-722-1612

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

 

National Events and Actions

Freedom to Vote Rally

Saturday, June 26, 2-3:30pm, Boston Common
To sign up: https://tinyurl.com/473xpz99

Join one of many rallies around the country organized to support passage of S.1, the For the People voting rights act.  This date was chosen because it coincides with the arrival in DC of the Black Voters Matter Freedom Ride for Voting Rights Bus Tour.

Join Indivisible Mass Coalition, Swing Blue Alliance, NAACP-Boston, Common Cause MA, Progressive Mass, JALSA, Act on Mass, Free Speech for People, Mass Peace Action, TPS Alliance, Indivisible Acton Area & others at the Rally.

Please consider volunteering to help, including as event marshals and peacekeepers, water stations, medical support and setting up the fully equipped stage with a state of the art sound system. If you can volunteer, please email debi.cpaul@gmail.com.

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

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our May meeting: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11R4df87hbYo-QU4z2w9KfS6hKgIioap_ExnEi3cS7OE/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our May meeting: https://youtu.be/L0drAWMW630

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

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

Sunday, June  27, 5:30pm
Among the topics will be redistricting, which is a big deal in our community since the demographics are changing, and the Fair Share Amendment.

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Donations are needed to assist 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. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

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

 

Local Events and Actions

Attn: Pawtucketville Residents:
Claypit Brook Climate Resilience Stormwater Management Capital Improvement Plan

Virtual Hearing
Wednesday, June 16, 6:30pm
RSVP: tinyurl.com/LowellMVP
The City of Lowell is holding a public meeting to discuss the findings of the Claypit Brook Capital Improvement Plan, which identified a suite of strategies to address the intense flooding that has been experienced in the Pawtucketville neighborhood. This project aims to enhance the resilience of the community to climate change impacts and is funded by an MVP Action Grant. The City wants to hear from residents!
The Project Team will present the results of the prioritization process which identified green infrastructure locations and projects around the watershed. This virtual meeting will also include interactive polling and Question & Answer sessions. The meeting will be recorded and posted online for those who are not able to attend. Translation and interpretation are available in ASL, Español, ភាសាខ្មែរ, português.

Lowell Votes Get Out the Vote Training

Thursday, June 17 , 5:30-7pm
https://tinyurl.com/Lowell-Votes-Sign-Up
Help Lowell voters learn about and transition to vote in the new hybrid voting system. Learn how to talk about the importance of voting locally, register voters, join a phone bank, and canvass safely door to door.

State-level Events and Actions

Fair Share Amendment Campaign Kicks into High Gear and You Can Help

Lawrence event June 15
The Fair Share Amendment is a proposal to amend the Massachusetts Constitution, creating an additional tax of four percentage points on the portion of a person’s annual income above $1 million. The new revenue, approximately $2 billion a year, would be spent on “quality public education and affordable public colleges and universities, and for the repair and maintenance of roads, bridges and public transportation.” To ensure that the amendment continues to apply only to the highest income taxpayers, who have the ability to pay more, the $1 million threshold would be adjusted each year to reflect cost-of-living increases.
Become an official “Fair Share Amendment Voter” by filling out the pledge form at https://raiseupma.us/pm.

Join the Merrimack Valley Campaign launch:
Tuesday, June 15, 6 PM 
Greater Lawrence Launch, McGovern Transportation Center
English – https://actionnetwork.org/events/lawrence-for-the-fair-share-amendment?clear_id=true
Spanish – https://actionnetwork.org/events/lawrence-for-the-fair-share-amendment-2?clear_id=true

Sign up to Testify at Hearing on Anti-bullying Dignity at Work Act

Deadline Wednesday, June 16 at 1:00pm
On June 22, 2021, the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development will hear testimony on the Dignity at Work Act (DAWA).

Here are three ways that you can take action TODAY:
1. Sign the petition: bit.ly/passDAWA
2. Get action alerts: bit.ly/DAWAalerts
3. Testify on behalf of DAWA in Massachusetts on Tuesday, June 22. Sign up to testify at bit.ly/DAWAtestifyMA (sign-up deadline: Wednesday, June 16 at 1:00pm ET). Get ready by joining our testimony training on Tuesday, June 15 at 10:30am ET: bit.ly/getready615

Email info@workplacebullyingcoalition.org for more information.

Lobbying & Libations: Progressive Mass Summer Lobby Training

Thursday, June 17, 2021 6:00 PM-7:30PM
To register: https://tinyurl.com/2xe3en4
Host Contact Info: issues@progressivemass.com
Find out more about how to lobby for progressive issues and legislation. Mix your “liberal libation” of choice and join us for our summer lobby training!

Gender Neutral ID Marker Bills and ACTION NEEDED!

While it has been possible for some time to tick the box for a third gender option on your Massachusetts driver’s licenses, that change did not mean the X option was available and legal in all documentation throughout the state. There are two bills that propose to change that. If you would like to submit written testimony, testify in person, or both, follow the link for more details, including templates.
https://tinyurl.com/9v4kfhcf

Tell your senator to support H.3863 regarding reprecincting to make redistricting easier

As you’re probably aware, the figures from the Census have been delayed. Which pushes back the time redistricting can start. Massachusetts has usually started redistricting by redrawing precinct lines. But that will further shorten an already too-short time frame for redrawing districts. This bill allows the legislature to start by drawing district lines FIRST and allowing towns and cities to THEN draw precinct lines to fit within the new district lines. A simple change that will make the whole process more efficient.

Use the link to write your senator:
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/support-the-reprecincting-bill?source=direct_link&

Urge your state representative to support transparency

Sample script:
“Hello, this is [your name] from [your full street address] and Solidarity Lowell. It’s been almost three months since the House and Senate passed respective sets of Joint Rules for the current legislative session, and almost two months since a Conference Committee was formed. The delay at finalizing a set of Joint Rules is holding back some of the important work of the session.
The Joint Rules should embody the commitment to democracy and transparency that many residents of the Commonwealth cherish. In particular, I urge you to press upon your chamber’s Leadership to include the following measures in a final Joint Rules package: publishing full committee votes on the Legislature’s website in an accessible manner, making testimony accessible to the public, with appropriate redactions as with any other public records request, and extending the notice period for hearings to one week. All of these steps will help legislators do their own jobs better and strengthen the participatory nature of our democracy.”

Please contact your state representative and state senator (email preferable at the moment)

(Replace the “at” and extra spaces with “@”)
House Speaker Ronald Mariano: Ronald.Mariano at mahouse.gov 617-722-2500
Senate President: Karen E. Spilka: Karen.Spilka at masenate.gov 617-722-1500
Rep. Thomas Golden: Thomas.Golden at mahouse.gov  617-722-2263
Rep. Vanna Howard: Vanna.Howard at mahouse.gov  617-722-2800 x7302 / Google Voice: 978-272-9078.
Rep. Rady Mom: Rady.Mom at mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry: Colleen.Garry at mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen: tram.nguyen at mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy: edward.kennedy at masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett: Mike.Barrett at masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge: James.Eldridge at masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold: Barry.Finegold at masenate.gov 617-722-1612

(Or find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

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

 

National Events and Actions

Virtual Summit: Continuing Threats to Free and Fair Elections

Wednesday, June 16, 12pm-2pm
https://tinyurl.com/4znrpjp8
Presented by The Brennan Center, the Ash Center, and the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Equal Rights Amendment Needs Your Help

Thank you to Indivisible Mass Coalition and News-MAGIC for bringing this to our attention.

The reason the Equal Rights Amendment has not become part of the US Constitution is because the Trump Administration issued an Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) memo blocking the Archivist from publishing it. Why can’t the new Justice Department issue an OLC memo unblocking the publication of the ERA? Let’s ask!

Sample script:
“Dear Attorney General Garland, Now that 38 states have ratified the Equal Rights Amendment, it is time to put women in the Constitution! Please repeal your predecessor’s banning of the publication of the ERA and instruct the Archivist to publish it immediately! Women have waited long enough!
Sincerely,
[your name, full address]”

Submit a comment here: https://www.justice.gov/doj/webform/your-message-department-justice

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

For positive news visit Solidarity Lowell Upbeat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326202548419687
View the notes from our May meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11R4df87hbYo-QU4z2w9KfS6hKgIioap_ExnEi3cS7OE/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our May meeting:
https://youtu.be/L0drAWMW630
—-

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

 

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

Sunday, June  27, 5:30pm

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Donations are needed to assist 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. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.

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

 

Local Events and Actions

Please sign the petition for justice on state-backed killings in Cambodia

https://www.change.org/p/cambodians-together-we-fight-to-end-impunity-justice-for-state-backed-killings-in-cambodia
Details are inside. You may sign the petition anonymously if you need to.

March for Moses

Saturday June 5, 12:00-2:00pm (rain or shine)
850 Lawrence Street, Lowell

Demand justice for Moses Harris, who disappeared during an encounter with the police. No police report has been made public as of publication date. Although Moses’ body has been found, there are still a lot of questions that have not been answered. Deaths involving police should be investigated by an independent body, not the police department involved in the incident. Meet near where Moses went missing and march to the Lowell Police Headquarters (JFK Plaza/Arcand Drive).

For more information, contact CAJE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAJE.LowellMA

State-level Events and Actions

Driving Families Forward Phone Bank 

Wednesday, June 2, 5:00 – 7:00 PM
RSVP here for link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vfuCqqzwuHd1b_273I8El3WBv48-4p8WU

Join the Driving Families Forward Coalition to phone bank for the Work and Family Mobility Act, which will enable all qualified state residents to obtain a driver’s license or identification card regardless of immigration status.
(h/t Driving Families Forward Coalition)

Third Safe Communities Act Campaign Under Way

Wednesday, June 9, 6-8pm
The third campaign for Safe Communities is well underway! The Massachusetts Safe Communities Act (S.1579 and H.2418) has now been referred to the Joint Committee on Public Safety, which will hold a public hearing on the bill sometime this year, likely this fall.

Thanks to public activism, there are 75 House cosponsors, and 20 Senate cosponsors. That’s half the Senate, and nearly half the House!

With a new legislative session, a new House Speaker, a new Public Safety Committee, and near-majority support, the SCA campaign is continuing its momentum from last session.

But a supermajority of House and Senate votes will be needed to overcome an expected Governor’s veto. That’s two-thirds of each chamber: 107 House votes and 27 Senate votes.

Please join the Coalition in June for a virtual Phone Bank to mobilize constituents in swing districts to call their legislators! Register below, and they’ll contact you with details, and provide training and support throughout. Don’t forget to invite your friends—you can create your own phone bank party!

Sign up here for Wednesday, June 9, 6pm to 8pm: http://bit.ly/SCAPhone609
Sign up here for Wednesday, June 23, 6pm to 8pm: http://bit.ly/SCAPhone623

 

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our May meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11R4df87hbYo-QU4z2w9KfS6hKgIioap_ExnEi3cS7OE/edit?usp=sharing

Watch the video from our May meeting:
https://youtu.be/L0drAWMW630
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Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Click here to join: https://www.progressivemass.com/contribute

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

Sunday, June 27, 5:30pm

Support for Asylum-Seeker Marius

Donations are needed to assist 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. Until Marius receives legal authorization to work, our network has committed to financially supporting him with $500/month. Please chip in towards the $500 we need to meet our commitment to him. Any amount will be gratefully accepted.
Donate here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form)

Local Events and Actions

Volunteers Needed at Dwelling House of Hope

We need people who can:

• Load and unload the truck
• Pack food on shelves
• Pack the refrigerators
• Distribute Food
• Deliver food
• Clean the warehouse

If you would like to volunteer, please contact Levenia Furusa at FLFurusa@dwellinghouseofhope.org

 

Please sign the petition for justice on state-backed killings in Cambodia

https://www.change.org/p/cambodians-together-we-fight-to-end-impunity-justice-for-state-backed-killings-in-cambodia
Details are inside. You may sign the petition anonymously if you need to.

Lowell Votes seeks volunteers to help register and educate voters and find candidates

http://www.lowellvotes.org
To register for future announcements: https://tinyurl.com/LowellVotesAnnouncements
Now that we’ll actually have a more equitable electoral system in the city, we need to help voters understand that their vote will matter in this election, help them understand the system and help them register to vote.

Citywide Parking Study Community Meeting

Thursday, May 27, 6-7:30pm
Pre-register for the meeting here:  https://lowellma.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcodOCqrz0uGN0LVGz7P_jyKsknNFVaJenZ
The City will be hosting the final community meeting on the Citywide Parking Study. ​The purpose of this community meeting is so our consultant can provide the results of the study, discuss preliminary recommendations, and get your feedback.
There will be live interpretation in Spanish, Portuguese, and Khmer. Additionally, closed captioning in English will be available.
Help us spread the word! Follow us on Facebook @GoLowell. Additional meeting information, including flyers, are on our website http://www.lowellma.gov/parkingstudy .

March for Moses

Saturday May 29, 12:00-2:00pm (rain or shine)
850 Lawrence Street, Lowell
Demand justice for Moses Harris, who disappeared during an encounter with the police. No police report has been made public as of publication date. Although Moses’ body has been found, there are still a lot of questions that have not been answered. Deaths involving police should be investigated by an independent body, not the police department involved in the incident. Meet near where Moses went missing and march to the Lowell Police Headquarters (JFK Plaza/Arcand Drive).
For more information, contact CAJE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAJE.LowellMA

 

State-level Events and Actions

Driving Families Forward Virtual Phone Bank

Wednesday, June 2, 5:00 – 7:00 PM
RSVP at http://bit.ly/dff-june2-phonebank

Join the Driving Families Forward Coalition to phone bank for the Work and Family Mobility Act, which will enable all qualified state residents to obtain a driver’s license or identification card regardless of immigration status.
(h/t Driving Families Forward Coalition)

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: http://solidaritylowell.com

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

To join our postcarding efforts to write to legislators on issues of interest , please fill out the following form: https://forms.gle/h2V7gJ1e2WbY9dKU9

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

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

View the notes from our April meeting:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11R4df87hbYo-QU4z2w9KfS6hKgIioap_ExnEi3cS7OE/edit?usp=sharing

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