Greg

RRT ACTION LIST 5/18/17 

Local

Mill City Skill Share

Saturday, May 20, 10am-4pm, Lowell Makes, 47 Lee Street, Lowell

Join us for our annual day of free workshops in Downtown Lowell!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/296836920739248/

 

Refugee Immigration Ministry Walk

Saturday, May 20, 10am-12pm, Lake Quannapowitt, Wakefield, MA

Join us for our annual walk around Lake Quannapowitt to support refugees and asylum seekers in our Massachusetts communities. RAIN or SHINE! Ample parking available by the Lake. Water and light snacks provided for walkers. Registration fee of $10 recommended but not required to participate. 

More information: Facebook Event Page

 

Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, May 21, 5pm, Mill No. 5, 5th Floor meeting room, Lowell, MA

Please note the meeting will take place in the 5th floor meeting room, not on the 4th floor as previously stated. This meeting will feature a presentation by We The People Massachusetts, a group working to end Citizens United and add a democracy amendment to the Constitution. Learn more at www.wethepeoplemass.org. Our second presenter will be Adam Friedman from Voter Choice MA, to discuss Ranked Choice Voting. Learn more at www.voterchoicema.org/. Also on the agenda: volunteering opportunities, tabling events, committee updates, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1944756629144537/

 

Town Hall with Maura Healey

Monday, May 22, 7pm, Wang Middle School 365 W Meadow Rd, Lowell, MA 01854

Since Donald Trump took office, we have seen an unprecedented increase in the level of activism in Massachusetts and throughout the country. Right here in Lowell, people have come together to plan, speak out and protest what’s happening in Washington. And Attorney General Maura Healey has shown already that she won’t hesitate to take on President Trump as he acts on his unconstitutional promises to roll back the progress we’ve made. AG Healey will help answer the questions of what we can do and how we can take action together.

Please RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdghjqxh9o3jQSpfMTMR0I4aqbsv2-pN4Z9CT5pPyM_xCRZow/viewform?c=0&w=1

For more information, please contact Deborah Shah at Deborah@maurahealey.com

 

Fixing Our Broken Democracy

Tuesday, May 23, 6:30-8:15pm, J. V. Fletcher Library, Mary Atwood Room, 3rd Floor, 50 Main Street, Westford, MA 01886

A series of Supreme Court decisions culminating in Citizens United v. FEC and McCutcheon v. FEC have opened the floodgates to money in politics, allowing economic elites to pressure our politicians to serve their interests rather than those of the general public. How can “We the People” assert our constitutional sovereignty over powerful special interests, and live up to Lincoln’s vision of government that serves all the people? Join us for this informative event, including Q&A, presented by We The People Massachusetts.

More information https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fixing-our-broken-democracy-a-free-event-tickets-34218185514?aff=utm_source%3Deb_email%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3Dnew_event_email&utm_term=eventurl_text

 

Help Refugees in Lowell

The Nashua, NH Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is partnering with the International Institute of New England (IINE) to help refugees resettle in our area and become integrated in our communities. Volunteers are needed to help set up homes, give tours of local resources like public transportation and libraries, help prepare resumes, participate in mock interviews, assist in transportation, practice and tutor English skills, facilitate social events, explain cultural situations, assist in special request coordination (seasonal clothing drives, etc), but most of all, to help refugees feel welcome, safe, wanted, and integrated in our communities. Volunteers need not be members of the LDS Church; everyone is welcome to help and the mailing list is only for refugee service opportunities.

Sign up here: http://iine.us13.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=4eff695dbc10c28d0d5fdc0e1&id=b7db13ffee

 

Chip in for Bikes for Refugees

Please donate to help gather and repair adult and children’s bicycles to be distributed to refugee families.

More information: https://www.gofundme.com/2d3scdgc

 

State

Rally for Public Education

Saturday, May 20, 2-5pm, Boston Common at Beacon and Charles St, Boston, MA

Last year, we won a landslide victory in Massachusetts against the forces of privatization, defeating a dangerous ballot initiative that would have drained hundreds of millions of dollars from our public schools. Now, the struggle continues. We must stand together to resist the plans and policies of Trump, Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, and Governor Charlie Baker. It is time to demand the public schools and colleges our communities deserve.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/101453610401476/

 

Environment Panel with the Environmental Voter Project, Sen Eldridge, Rep Benson and more

Wednesday, May 24, 7-9pm, RJ Grey Junior High, 16 Charter Road, Acton, MA

Are you concerned about the environment nationally, regionally, and locally, and want to do something about it? The Activist Alliance is hosting a meeting with Nathanial Stinnett from the Environmental Voter Project, State Senator Jamie Eldridge, State Representative Jennifer Benson and Local Activist Eric Broadbent. The focus will be: What is the risk to us with the change in National Environmental Policy? What state policies can we recommend and advocate for and how? What can we do locally to protect our environment?

More information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/environmental-action-discussion-tickets-33689926477

 

Stand against the racist dress code in Malden

Paul Sagan, Chair, MA Board of Elementary and Secondary Education: 781-338-3102

The ACLU of Massachusetts filed a complaint challenging Mystic Valley Regional Charter School’s hair and makeup policy, which discriminates based on race, gender national origin, religion, and disability. The complaint was filed on behalf of students Deanna and Mya Cook, who were disciplined for wearing braids with hair extensions, a hairstyle that is common for Black women. White students have not been equally disciplined for wearing hair extensions or dyed and colored hair, which also violates the school’s policy.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. I’m calling for Paul Sagan to stand against the discriminatory policy of Mystic Valley Regional Charter School. The fact that Deanna and Mya Cook were disciplined for braids when white students have not been called out for similar styles is very upsetting. Please ask Mr. Sagan to encourage the school to change their policy. Thank you!”

More information: https://aclum.org/uncategorized/aclu-massachusetts-challenges-malden-charter-schools-discriminatory-hair-policy/

 

Fund our Schools Properly


Please contact your representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):

Thomas Golden: 617-722-2263

David Nangle: 617-722-2575

Rady Mom: 617-722-2460

Colleen Garry: 617-722-2380

James Lyons: 617-722-2460

“Even though we are tops in the nation on education achievement in Massachusetts, we are also 48th in the nation on inequality.” — Sonia Chang-Díaz. S.223, Sen. Chang-Diaz’s bill to modernize the Foundation Budget, is on our 2017-2018 legislative agenda. Call your legislators to let them know that it’s time for MA to fund our schools properly!

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. Please support S.223 to modernize the Foundation Budget. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S223/Cosponsor

 

End Child Marriage in Massachusetts!


Please contact your representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):

Thomas Golden: 617-722-2263

David Nangle: 617-722-2575

Rady Mom: 617-722-2460

Colleen Garry: 617-722-2380

James Lyons: 617-722-2460

Background from the Boston Globe (8/10/2016): Between 2010 and 2014, almost 200 children were married in Massachusetts, according to the latest available records from the state’s Department of Public Health. Judges approved 92 percent of marriage petitions from minors over that span, probate court records show. More than 85 percent of the children were girls, who often married significantly older men. Two 17-year-old girls, for instance, married 39-year-old men, records show. Two 15-year-old girls also received approval to marry men in their mid-twenties.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m from ____, Massachusetts. I am asking you to support legislation to end child marriages in Massachusetts. In the majority of these marriages, the child is a girl marrying an adult man. We are now aware that there is no law protecting young women from being forced to marry before they are legally adults. Please encourage the Joint Judiciary to move S.785 and H.2310 to the floor for a vote, and please vote to make this bill law. Thank you!”

More information: https://capecodwomenforchange.com/2017/04/24/call-to-action-tell-ma-legislators-to-prevent-young-women-from-becoming-child-brides/

 

Repeal Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Nonviolent Drug Offenses


Please contact your representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):

Thomas Golden: 617-722-2263

David Nangle: 617-722-2575

Rady Mom: 617-722-2460

Colleen Garry: 617-722-2380

James Lyons: 617-722-2460

This bill would restore judges’ discretion in sentencing for nonviolent drug charges, reducing the economic and social costs of extended prison terms.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. Please co-sponsor and vote YES on S.819/H.741 to repeal mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses. This holdover from the failed war on drugs takes sentencing power away from judges and is a threat to due process, since they cause 90% of prosecutions in MA to end in plea agreements (according to the ACLU of MA). We must repeal mandatory minimums for all nonviolent drug offenses and allow prisoners who are serving them to become eligible for parole. Thank you!”

More information:More information: https://aclum.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Mandatory-Minimums-fact-sheet-1.pdf

 

Support H.2091/S.373 for Automatic Voter Registration


Please contact your representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):

Thomas Golden: 617-722-2263

David Nangle: 617-722-2575

Rady Mom: 617-722-2460

Colleen Garry: 617-722-2380

James Lyons: 617-722-2460

This bill would modernize voter registration by automatically registering citizens who interact with government agencies (“opt-out” instead of “opt-in”) and ensure that such information is handled in a secure fashion, enhancing safeguards against fraud.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. I am your constituent and I urge you to co-sponsor and support S.373/H. 2091 to modernize voter registration and protect the security of voter data. One of the greatest threats to a democracy is lack of participation. This bill would improve voter registration and potentially enhance voter participation. It would also help assure voters that their sensitive information is safe. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H2091

 

Federal

Call for Trump’s Impeachment


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Donald Trump revealed highly classified information to Russian officials. He also asked then- FBI Director James Comey to stop investigating Michael Flynn, which is obstruction of justice.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. I am calling for the impeachment of President Trump. The revelation that he has released highly classified information to the Russian government is terrifying, and it’s unacceptable. He needs to be removed from office as he is a danger to the entire country. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/16/us/politics/james-comey-trump-flynn-russia-investigation.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=span-ab-top-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news

 

Save the free Internet

FCC Chairman Ajit Pai: 202-418-2000

A free and open internet is vital for our democracy and for our daily lives. But the Federal Communications Commission is considering a proposal that threatens net neutrality– and therefore threatens the internet as we know it. Former Verizon lawyer and FCC Chairman Pai wants to reverse hard-won rules that protect millions of internet users’ access to a free and open web. Instead of treating the internet as a public utility like the telephone system or radio waves, Pai is making moves to let the wealthiest corporations run the Web. His plan opens the way to pay-to-play “fast lanes” for those who can afford it– and slower connections for everyone else’s websites. This could give mega-corporations control over the information we consume every day.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m from ____, Massachusetts. Please do not reverse the 2015 rules that keep the internet open, free, and democratic for all. Any proposal that undermines net neutrality violates our freedoms of speech, expression, and inquiry and risks unfair discrimination against low-income communities and communities of color. Thank you!”

More information: https://action.aclu.org/secure/keep-internet-free?ms=web_170515_privacyandtechnology_netneutrality

 

The RRT (Rapid Response Team) Action List compiles action items from the week into one place. If you would like to add anything to the weekly update, please send it to Marissa Dupont on Facebook or at marissa.dupont@gmail.com using subject line “RRT”, or use hashtag #RRT in the Solidarity Lowell Facebook group.


Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

RRT ACTION LIST 5/11/17 

Local

Crisis in Cameroon Panel Discussion

Thursday, May 11, 7pm, LTC, 246 Market Street, Lowell

In November, 2016, a bloody political crisis erupted in Cameroon, resulting in the death, rape, and mass persecution of non-violent citizens in the English-speaking region of Cameroon. Today, the persecution continues. There is a panel discussion to inform the public and discuss how to speak out to prevent another Rwanda-type genocide. 

For more information, please email fru1964@gmail.com

 

Postcards for Progress

Saturday, May 13, 2-4pm, Gallery Z, 167 Market Street, Lowell, MA

We’ll be writing postcards to and leaving messages for our elected officials. Come join us! We’re also collecting items for Massachusetts refugees! Please bring any of the following: toothbrushes, toothpaste, diapers, shampoo/conditioner, deodorant (for man and woman), stuffed animal(s), craft (coloring books, crayons, etc.), laundry detergent, books, baby wipes, soap.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/219458405214700/
Atlas Soul: World Music for World Peace

Saturday, May 13, 4:30pm, Christ Church United, 180 East Merrimack St, Lowell

An evening of brief talks by area organizations working for justice and equality, followed by a great meal and an inspiring, vibrant concert. Atlas Soul, an award-winning band, will perform a multi-lingual, cross-cultural fusion of music rooted in Afro-Mediterranean traditions blended with deep funk, jazz, and hip-hop. 

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/660455350807382/

 

Merrimack Valley Activist Forum

Saturday, May 13, 9am-12:30pm, Reliefs In, 1 Market St, Lawrence, Massachusetts 01843

Get involved in local activism and add your voice in shaping a progressive future for the Merrimack Valley and beyond! Join a forum with other local activists and statewide advocacy groups to get involved with the work being done on priority issues.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/423298224695536/

 

THRIVE Circles of Support and Accountability (COSA) Training

Saturday, May 13, 8am-4:30pm, Entrepreneurship for All, 175 Cabot Street, Suite 100, Lowell

THRIVE is a community-based response to the challenges faced by adults returning from prison. THRIVE’s COSA training is an experiential exploration of the meaning, guidelines and impact of Reentry Circles. By the end of the day, participants will have gained an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a THRIVE volunteer.

More information and to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/circles-of-support-accountability-cosa-tickets-33794746998

 

Save the date! Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, May 21, 5pm, Mill No. 5, 4th Floor Hi-Hat area, Lowell, MA (location may change)

This meeting will feature a presentation by We The People Massachusetts, a group working to end Citizens United and add a democracy amendment to the Constitution. Learn more at www.wethepeoplemass.org. Also on the agenda: volunteering opportunities, tabling events, committee updates, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1944756629144537/

 

State

Tell Governor Baker to stand up for the Paris Agreement

Charlie Baker: 617.725.4005

On May 3, twelve U.S. governors sent President Trump a letter urging him to keep the United States in the Paris Agreement. Governor Charlie Baker’s name was not on that letter.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. Trump is currently considering whether to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement. Governor Baker should have signed the letter urging Trump not to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. Governor Baker should show leadership and: 1) Sign the letter calling on Trump to stay in the Paris Agreement and 2) get our state back on track to meet 25% carbon reduction by 2020 as required by Massachusetts law. Thank you!”

More information: http://www.betterfutureproject.org/speakupcharlie3?utm_campaign=cmwu_may_8_17&utm_medium=email&utm_source=betterfutureproject

 

Rally for Public Education

Saturday, May 20, 2-5pm, Boston Common at Beacon and Charles St, Boston, MA

Last year, we won a landslide victory in Massachusetts against the forces of privatization, defeating a dangerous ballot initiative that would have drained hundreds of millions of dollars from our public schools. Now, the struggle continues. We must stand together to resist the plans and policies of Trump, Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, and Governor Charlie Baker. It is time to demand the public schools and colleges our communities deserve.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/101453610401476/

 

Prohibit “Conversion Therapy” for LGBTQ Youth


Please contact your representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):

Thomas Golden: 617-722-2263

David Nangle: 617-722-2575

Rady Mom: 617-722-2460

Colleen Garry: 617-722-2380

James Lyons: 617-722-2460

“Conversion therapy” is a harmful practice to attempt to change LGBTQ individuals’ sexual orientation and/or gender identity. The Supreme Court recently ruled that outlawing it is constitutional (hooray!), but most states do not yet have laws on the books that outlaw it. Massachusetts now has the opportunity to prohibit state-licensed mental health professionals from subjecting minors to “conversion therapy” practices. As Elizabeth Warren recently wrote in regard to a similar federal bill, “LGBTQ Americans deserve to live lives free of discrimination and prejudice, with the same rights as other citizens.”

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please co-sponsor and vote YES on H.1190, which would save LGBTQ minors from harmful “conversion therapy” practices. Our LGBTQ youth are fine the way they are, and they need to be supported, not subjected to this danger. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H1190

 

Federal

Appoint Preet Bharara as Special Prosecutor

Rod Rosenstein: (202) 353-1555

Preet Bharara is one of the most accomplished jurists in America, with a history of honest, non-partisan investigations and an ability to take on even the largest of cases. He’s led the charge against corruption in the New York State government, financial fraud on Wall Street, and international gang activity. He is respected by Democrats and Republicans alike and has extensive experience with international investigations, including in Russia. Now that he is no longer the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Mr. Bharara is the perfect candidate to take on the task of investigating the role Russia played in the 2016 elections.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. With the firing of James Comey, it’s clear that we need an investigation run from outside the administration and DC. I strongly encourage you to allow New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and Preet Bharara to take the lead as special prosecutor regarding the current administration’s ties to Russia. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.change.org/p/appoint-preet-bharara-as-special-prosecutor-to-investigate-election-influence-by-russia

 

Support H.2091/S.373 for Automatic Voter Registration


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

This bill would modernize voter registration by automatically registering citizens who interact with government agencies (“opt-out” instead of “opt-in”) and ensure that such information is handled in a secure fashion, enhancing safeguards against fraud.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. I am your constituent and I urge you to co-sponsor and support S.373/H. 2091 to modernize voter registration and protect the security of voter data. One of the greatest threats to a democracy is lack of participation. This bill would improve voter registration and potentially enhance voter participation. It would also help assure voters that their sensitive information is safe. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H2091

 

Positive Action of the Week

 

Thank Rep. Tsongas for demanding the truth about Trump

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

In measure after measure, Rep. Tsongas has called for investigating Trump’s tax returns and his connection to Russia. The call for investigations is growing louder and louder– and one key measure, which would require making Trump’s tax returns public– is gaining real steam. 

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from ______, Massachusetts. I am a constituent of Rep. Tsongas. I want to thank her for signing the discharge petition on H.R.305, demanding a floor vote to get Trump’s tax returns. Congress cannot begin to consider Trump’s awful tax reforms until Trump releases his own taxes, at a very minimum. I also support creating a nonpartisan, independent investigation on Trump, Russia, and Trump’s conflicts of interest. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/05/10/us/politics/congress-statements-comey.html

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

RRT ACTION LIST 5/3/17

Local

Join LEJA in protecting, defending, and improving our public schools

Thursday, May 4, 6pm, United Teachers of Lowell, 4th floor, 169 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Lowell Education Justice Alliance (LEJA) is a grassroots group of students, educators, parents, school staff, and concerned community members who are deeply tied to neighborhoods and communities across Lowell and all of Massachusetts. We are committed to building a stronger and better public school system that is driven by community voices. This organizing meeting is to plan the agenda for an upcoming community meeting. Some concerns we will discuss: What concerns does your community have about your public school? What is Lowell’s school budget and how does it compare to surrounding communities? How do the current attacks on our immigrant communities affect our schools, our students and their families? And more.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/756979417797360/?acontext=%7B%22source%22%3A4%2C%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D&source=4&action_history=null

 

Together Tuesdays

Tuesday, May 9, 6:15-7:15pm, City Hall steps, 375 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA

Together Tuesday is an opportunity to meet and hear from like-minded folks from across the community, to laugh, smile, and bond with one another, and to work together toward building a Lowell that is run for and by its people. The steps will be open to speeches from any who attend. You are encouraged to share a thought or idea – or even a poem or song of solidarity or struggle. This event is organized by CAJE, a multiracial network of community members and organizations. They empower, raise awareness, provide resources and advocate for the marginalized.

For more information, please email info@cajelowell.org

 

Save the date! Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, May 21, 5pm, Mill No. 5, 4th Floor Hi-Hat area, Lowell, MA (location may change)

This meeting will feature a presentation by We The People Massachusetts, a group working to end Citizens United and add a democracy amendment to the Constitution. Learn more at www.wethepeoplemass.org. Also on the agenda: volunteering opportunities, tabling events, committee updates, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1944756629144537/

 

State

Healthcare discussion with Sen Jamie Eldridge and Rep Jen Benson

Thursday, May 4, 7-9pm, Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church Fellowship Building, 7 Elm St, Harvard, Massachusetts 01451

The League of Women Voters of Harvard is proud to present “Bringing High Quality, Affordable Health Care to Every Person in Massachusetts” with Senator Jamie Eldridge and Rep Jen Benson.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/513657859022563/

 

Call in support of the Safe Communities Act


Thomas Golden: 617-722-2263

David Nangle: 617-722-2575

Rady Mom: 617-722-2460

Colleen Garry: 617-722-2380

James Lyons: 617-722-2460

Protect the civil rights and safety of all Massachusetts residents. Call your representative and encourage them to make Massachusetts a Sanctuary State.

Sample script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please support Bill S.1305, the Safe Communities Act. Massachusetts should be a sanctuary state. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/SD1596

 

Federal

Stop the repeal of the Affordable Care Act

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Call your Representative and tell them to reject, repeal, and #ProtectOurCare: Stop trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act! The House of Representatives wants to vote on this new plan this week. We can’t let this happen! If it passes, 24 million Americans will lose coverage by 2020, costs will increase for seniors and those with pre-existing conditions, women will go back to paying more than men for basic care, women will lose access to safe abortion care and see increases in costs for birth control, Medicaid patients – including millions of children, seniors and people with disabilities – will no longer be able to get the care they need.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _______, Massachusetts. Please vote against the repeal of the Affordable Care Act. For many Americans, costs will either increase or they will lose coverage. This is unacceptable. Please stand up for health care. Thank you!”

More information: http://hq-salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/5950/t/0/blastContent.jsp?email_blast_KEY=204257

 

Oppose the Wall Street Deregulating Financial Choice Act (H.R.10)

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

The House of Representatives is considering a bill that would dismantle the 2010 Wall Street reform legislation, known as the Dodd-Frank Act. This law created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), an agency committed to protecting consumers and making sure that banks, lenders, and other financial institutions treat you fairly. Dodd-Frank imposes important rules to rein in the kind of Wall Street speculation that crashed the economy and caused millions of people to lose their jobs, homes, and savings.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please oppose H.R.10. The bill would destroy the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which has cracked down on predatory lenders and big banks that break the law and obtained $11.8 billion in relief for over 29 million Americans. This bill would give those predatory lenders and big banks a free hand to exploit American consumers. This lack of oversight led to the 2008 mortgage crisis and 2009 financial crisis. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.indivisibleguide.com/resource/oppose-choice-act/

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

RRT ACTION LIST 4/27/17 

Local

CBA’s 30th Annual Acre Clean Up

Saturday, April 29, 8:30am-2:30pm, North Common Park, 413 Fletcher Street, Lowell

Join the Coalition for a Better Acre to clean up the neighborhood’s parks. Please register for a free T-shirt at the event.

More information and to register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScEnRR0ibZp7L2bcjf9fr5N2UbtkUDXOIyRspNW13NjymvMow/viewform?c=0&w=1

 

Postcards for Progress – Climate Day Edition

Saturday, April 29, 11am-1pm, Gallery Z, 167 Market Street, Lowell

If you’re not at the Climate Change March, what better place to be than writing postcards with us? We had 9 people last time, let’s see if we can beat our record! We’ll be writing postcards to and leaving messages for our elected officials.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/230207234126912/

 

Un Dia Sin Inmigrantes Marcha /Day Without Immigrants March – Lawrence, MA

Monday, May 1, 10am-4pm, Campagnone Common, 200 Common St, Lawrence, MA 01840

Lawrence has always been a city of immigrants. In 1912, Lawrence immigrants who demanded better wages and better work conditions made history leading the successful strike “Bread and Roses” that lasted 9 weeks. This May 1st, if you are an immigrant and/or believe in immigrants’ rights, join the national boycott! Do not go to work, school or buy anything on this day. Join Cosecha Lawrence and several other local organizations in showing the public how much the economy of this country depends on immigrants, but most importantly that Lawrence is ready to stand up again for human and labor rights of all immigrants!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/363931354006128/

 

Save the date! Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, May 21, 5pm, Mill No. 5, 4th Floor Hi-Hat area, Lowell, MA (location may change)

This meeting will feature a presentation by We The People Massachusetts, a group working to end Citizens United and add a democracy amendment to the Constitution. Learn more at www.wethepeoplemass.org. Also on the agenda: volunteering opportunities, tabling events, committee updates, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1944756629144537/

 

State

March for Climate and Science

Saturday, April 29, 12pm-3:30pm, Boston Common, Boston, MA

This demonstration is organized by the People’s Climate Movement, which grew out of the historic 2014 march on the eve of the UN Climate Summit in New York City. Planned for the 100th day of the Trump administration, the march will oppose Trump’s climate change denial and continue the mission of the original 2014 march to demand urgent action on the global climate change crisis.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/114630515717476/

 

Healthcare discussion with Sen Jamie Eldridge and Rep Jen Benson

Thursday, May 4, 7-9pm, Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church Fellowship Building, 7 Elm St, Harvard, Massachusetts 01451

The League of Women Voters of Harvard is proud to present “Bringing High Quality, Affordable Health Care to Every Person in Massachusetts” with Senator Jamie Eldridge and Rep Jen Benson.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/513657859022563/

 

Federal

Stop DHS from deporting Somalis


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

In Georgia, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently apprehended eight Somalis, detained them and put them into deportation proceedings. Some have been in this country since childhood and they know nothing about Somalia, nor do they speak the language. Additionally, some of the individuals detained are living with mental illnesses and may not fully understand their circumstances.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m calling from ______, Massachusetts. I oppose the recent policy change that has led to the apprehension, detention and deportation of Somalis. The United States should not deport people back to Somalia, due to the severe drought and famine there, as well as the threat of Al-Shabaab. Please immediately stop rounding up and deporting our Somali neighbors. Thank you!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/recOXAFxqJOpiBzvy

 

Stand up for our national monuments

Department of the Interior: (202) 208-3100

President Trump signed an executive order Wednesday instructing Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to review any national monument created since Jan. 1, 1996, that spans at least 100,000 acres in a move he said would “end another egregious use of government power.” This order appears to affect 25 national monuments.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from ______, Massachusetts. Please preserve our national monuments as they exist today. America’s national monuments are incredibly popular, funnel money into our economy, and hold precious cultural significance. Any attempt to reverse or shrink a monument designation by the executive branch is unlawful under the Antiquities Act. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/energy-environment/wp/2017/04/25/zinke-to-review-large-national-monuments-created-since-1996-to-make-sure-the-people-have-a-voice/?tid=ss_fb-amp&utm_term=.e63c73f3aa7e

 

Speak against releasing your passwords to the TSA

DHS comment line: 202-282-8495

The Department of Homeland Security is currently examining procedures to investigate travelers to the United States. In a congressional hearing, Secretary Kelly said they’re even considering forcing some travelers to provide their passwords to social media accounts as a condition to enter. This would violate the right to privacy, undermine freedom of expression, and create numerous cyber security risks for all people.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please reject any proposal to require visa applicants, refugees, or other foreign visitors to provide passwords for online accounts – including social media – in order to enter the United States. Thank you!”

More information: https://action.aclu.org/secure/FlyDontSpy?emsrc=Nat_Appeal_AutologinEnabled&emissue=privacyandtechnology&emtype=petition&ms=eml_170419_privacyandtechnology_flydontspy&__af=query_string_encrypted

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

RRT Action List 4/21/17 

Local

Lowell’s Points of Light Lantern Celebration

Saturday, April 22, 5-9pm, 282 Suffolk St, Lowell, MA 01854

Imagine watching hundreds of personalized floating lanterns released into the Western Canal, as you enjoy Lowell’s diverse music, traditions, and food. This is the Points of Light, a spring celebration of unity and renewal.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/821666707972075/

 

Lowell Earth Day Parade & Festival

Sunday, April 23, 11am-3:30pm, UTEC Lowell 35 Warren St, Lowell, MA 01852

We invite organizations, individuals and families to the streets of downtown Lowell to celebrate the greening of our city with a mile-long parade featuring The Party Band, members of the Sullivan School band, puppets, costumes, and eco-conscious groups. Immediately following the parade, we’ll be holding a fun sustainability festival for all participants and the general public.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/131633854041606/

 

Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday, April 23, 5pm, Mill No. 5, 4th floor

On the agenda: tabling at local events, presentation by Thrive, committee updates, May Day preparation, postcard action from the RRT, and more!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1876769112592529/

 

Merrimack Valley Sanctuary Network Formation

Tuesday, April 25, 2017, 1pm, St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, 8 Kirk St. Lowell, MA

At this press conference, select religious leaders will declare the formation of a Merrimack Valley Sanctuary Network. Clergy of various faiths will gather to announce the creation of the Merrimack Valley Sanctuary Network to protect undocumented immigrants from an unjust policy of mass deportation, joining over 800 congregations nationwide. They offer shelter and protection to those families who are in immediate danger within our community and ask those who have nothing to fear to stand in helping them.

For more information about the Merrimack Valley Project: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/

 

Planning meeting- A Day Without Immigrants Lowell to Lawrence

Wednesday, April 26, 6:30-9pm, University Crossing at UMass Lowell, room 490, Lowell, MA

Do you want to stand in solidarity with our immigrant brothers and sisters? Do you want to fight back against Trump’s agenda of racism and discrimination? Join us in planning our mobilization of students and workers from Lowell to go to Lawrence on May 1st for A Day Without Immigrants march! Thousands will be in the streets May 1st in Lawrence and it’s projected hundreds of thousands around the country. 

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/285881631851905/

 

Take Back the Night

Thursday, April 27, 6-10pm, Lowell City Hall, 50 Arcand Dr, Lowell, MA

Across the country, April marks the month of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention. In Greater Lowell, we join with community partners, families, and individuals to raise awareness about sexual violence in all forms. The event begins at 6pm with a rally at Lowell City Hall Plaza, followed by a march down Merrimack Street to U-Crossing (220 Pawtucket Drive). There will be an indoor gathering for survivors and their loved ones to share their stories in a safe space about the impact of sexual violence in their lives. 

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/329144597468981/

 

Un Dia Sin Inmigrantes Marcha /Day Without Immigrants March in Lawrence

Sunday, May 1, 10am-4pm, Campagnone Common, 200 Common St, Lawrence, MA 01840

Lawrence has always been a city of immigrants. In 1912, Lawrence immigrants who demanded better wages and better work conditions made history leading the successful strike “Bread and Roses” that lasted 9 weeks. This May 1st, if you are an immigrant and/or believe in immigrants’ rights, join the national boycott! Do not go to work, school or buy anything on this day. Join Cosecha Lawrence and several other local organizations in showing the public how much the economy of this country depends on immigrants, but most importantly that Lawrence is ready to stand up again for human and labor rights of all immigrants!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/363931354006128/

 

State

March for Science Boston

Saturday, April 22, 2-4pm, Boston Common, Boston, MA 

This Rally for Science celebrates the discovery, understanding, and sharing of scientific knowledge as crucial to the success, health, and safety of the human race. We join together to champion not only science itself, but also publicly funded and publicly communicated scientific knowledge as a pillar of human freedom and prosperity. We unite as a diverse and nonpartisan group to celebrate Boston as a space for scientists and scientific research and to support of five main goals: Communication, Funding, Policy, Literacy, and Improvement. Kids’ exhibits from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Allow plenty of extra time to get there, and don’t count on cell service working to find the people you want to meet up with, since the Women’s March ran into the problem of overloaded cell towers. Arrange a meeting point in advance!

More information: https://www.marchforscienceboston.com/

 

Demand the Massachusetts Pension Fund stop funding climate disruption


Thomas Golden 617-722-2263

David Nangle 617-722-2575

Rady Mom 617-722-2460

Colleen Garry 617-722-2380

James Lyons 617-722-2460

There is a budget amendment at the statehouse which would divest the state pension funds from coal and set up a commission to report on divesting from oil and gas. It is Amendment #380. 

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please support Amendment 380 to the budget for divestment of state funds from fossil fuels. Thank you!”

More information: http://massdivest.org/

 

Convince Governor Baker to support an An Act Restoring Financial Transparency in Presidential Elections

617.725.4005

Introduced by State Senator Mike Barrett (D-Lexington), S.365 is one of more than 25 bills nationwide that would force presidential and vice-presidential candidates to release tax returns before appearing on individual state ballots. 

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please support S.365, which would require presidential candidates to release their tax returns. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S365

 

March for Climate and Science

Saturday, April 29, 12pm-3:30pm, Boston Common, Boston, MA

This demonstration is organized by the People’s Climate Movement, which grew out of the historic 2014 march on the eve of the UN Climate Summit in New York City. Planned for the 100th day of the Trump administration, the march will oppose Trump’s climate change denial and continue the mission of the original 2014 march to demand urgent action on the global climate change crisis.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/114630515717476/

 

Federal

Stop the concentration camps for gay men in Russia


Address:

Aleksandr Ivanovich Bastrykin

Investigation Committee of the Russian Federation

Tekhnicheskii pereulok, dom 2

105005 Moscow, Russian Federation

(Please note that international postcards require $1.15 in postage)

On 1 April, the Russian independent daily newspaper, Novaya Gazeta, reported that over a hundred men believed to be gay have been abducted in recent days, as part of a coordinated campaign. The men were reportedly tortured and otherwise ill-treated, and forced to disclose other LGBTI individuals known to them. Novaya Gazeta claimed to have verified information about at least three men who had been killed by their captors, but its sources claim that there have been many more killings.

Suggested text: “Aleksandr, Please carry out prompt, effective and thorough investigations into the reports of abductions and killings of men believed to be gay in Chechnya and to ensure that anyone found guilty or complicit in such crimes will be brought to justice in accordance with the laws of the Russian Federation. You must take all necessary steps to ensure safety of any individual who may be at risk in Chechnya because of their sexual orientation and condemn in the strongest terms possible any discriminatory comments made by officials. Remind the Russian and Chechen authorities that they have an international human rights obligation to prohibit discrimination and to investigate and prosecute hate crimes, the most invidious form of discrimination. Thank you!”

More information: http://metro.co.uk/2017/04/13/heres-how-to-help-tortured-gay-men-in-chechnya-camps-6572033/

 

Help DREAMer Juan Manuel Montes Return Home

Department of Homeland Security: 202-282-8495

Juan Manuel Montes has lived in the United States for 14 years and has twice been granted deferral of deportation and a work permit under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. President Trump has stated that DACA recipients, or DREAMers as they are also called, are not currently targets of his mass deportation campaign. Despite Juan’s active DACA status, he was arrested by ICE agents in February and deported to Mexico within 3 hours of his arrest because he did not have his ID on him.

Sample script: “Hello, my name is ______ and I’m calling from ______, Massachusetts. I’m calling to support the return of DACA recipient Juan Manuel Montes to his home in the United States. ICE should respect the protected status of DACA recipients. Thank you!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/recbM75Ptb4BvHs8C

 

Protect U.S. coastlines from the expansion of offshore drilling


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

The Trump Administration has announced plans to expand offshore oil drilling in U.S. waters, putting the Atlantic, Pacific, Eastern Gulf of Mexico, and Arctic Ocean potentially at risk. This brazen proposal would overturn the federal government’s recently finalized 5 year offshore drilling program that was informed by years of environmental review and input from millions of citizens. 

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please protect our oceans from any new offshore oil and gas development. Offshore drilling is a polluting activity that puts our coastal economies, communities, and natural resources at risk. The impacts from routine operations and inevitable oil spills would significantly harm the coastal recreation and tourism sector. Thank you!”

More information: https://secured.surfrider.org/action/engagement?actionId=AR0005772&id=701i00000018YoU

 

The RRT (Rapid Response Team) Action List compiles action items from the week into one place. If you would like to add anything to the weekly update, please send it to Marissa Dupont on Facebook or at marissa.dupont@gmail.com using subject line “RRT”, or use hashtag #RRT in the Solidarity Lowell Facebook group.

 

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

RRT ACTION LIST 4/11/17

LOCAL:

–Postcards and Phone Banking – Tax Day Edition
Saturday, April 15, 11am-1pm, Gallery Z, 167 Market St, Lowell, Massachusetts 01852
An event to write postcards to our elected officials about issues important to us. Postcard ideas and some supplies provided, but more ideas and supplies are always welcome! Please bring a phone, a computer, and a headset if possible. If not possible, you’ll write postcards, or we’ll share!
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/255591738183167/

–Immigration Clinic: Receive Free Immigration Consultation
April 15, 11am-4pm, Lawrence Public High School, 70-71 N Parish Rd, Lawrence, MA 01843
Please join the offices of State Representative Matias in partnership with Lawrence Public Schools and the American Immigration Lawyers Association for the Lawrence Immigration Clinic. At the Immigration Clinic, those who register and attend will be provided with a free legal immigration consultation with an immigration attorney.
For more information, please contact legislative aide Manny Cruz: (617) 722-2425 ext 7312

STATE:

–Tax Day Protest Boston-Cambridge
Saturday, April 15, 1-4pm, Cambridge Commons Park, Waterhouse St and Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA
Without Donald Trump’s tax returns, Americans are in the dark about his conflicts of interest, his foreign entanglements, and whether he even pays any taxes at all. We’re protesting to remind him that he works for us now. We encourage anybody and everybody who demands to see Trump’s tax returns to join us.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/595235454007911/

–Insist that NCAA President Mark Emmert keep championship games out of NC
Address:
Mark Emmert
℅ The National Collegiate Athletic Association
700 W. Washington Street
P.O. Box 6222
Indianapolis, Indiana 46206-6222
After HB2 became law last year, the NCAA pulled championship games from the state for failing to “assure a safe, healthy, discrimination-free atmosphere for all.” North Carolina’s new law, HB 142, is still discriminatory and illegal. It still singles out transgender people. It still bars local governments from protecting LGBTQ people through 2020. The NCAA should know this. Tell the NCAA not to allow North Carolina to bid to host championship games.
Sample text: “Dear Mark, HB 142 is discriminatory and illegal by singling out transgender people and barring local governments from protecting LGBTQ individuals. Do not allow North Carolina to bid to host championship games. Stand your ground! Thank you!”
More information: https://ssl.capwiz.com/aclu-action/issues/alert/…

–March for Science Boston
Saturday, April 22, 2-4pm, Boston Common, Boston, MA
This Rally for Science celebrates the discovery, understanding, and sharing of scientific knowledge as crucial to the success, health, and safety of the human race. We join together to champion not only science itself, but also publicly funded and publicly communicated scientific knowledge as a pillar of human freedom and prosperity. We unite as a diverse and nonpartisan group to celebrate Boston as a space for scientists and scientific research and to support of five main goals: Communication, Funding, Policy, Literacy, and Improvement.
More information: https://www.marchforscienceboston.com/

FEDERAL:

–Urge Congress to Grant Asylum to Syrian Refugees
Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170
Edward Markey: 202-224-2742
Now that the United States has begun military intervention in Syria, it is more urgent than ever that we provide asylum to the thousands of Syrians displaced by the violence and horrors of war. Call your representative and urge that they support legislation to allow more Syrian refugees to seek asylum in the United States.
Sample script: “Hello, my name is ______and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. Please do everything in your power to support legislation and policies that increase the number of Syrian refugees who can get asylum in the United States. If our country is going to take military action against the Syrian regime, we must also offer protection to the civilians who will experience the fallout from our military interventions. Thank you!”
More information: https://5calls.org/issue/recJelSda7trqff5W

–Prevent Further Military Escalation in Syria or Elsewhere
Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170
Edward Markey: 202-224-2742
Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101
On April 6th, Trump retaliated against Assad’s chemical weapons attack by firing nearly 60 Tomahawk missiles at the airfield from which the weapons were launched. While Assad’s actions are atrocious, Trump’s swift and unexplained policy reversal regarding Syria calls into question the purpose and length of strategic planning behind the operation. Trump must seek the approval of Congress before any more military action takes place.
Sample script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please push for congressional approval before any further military escalation takes place in Syria or elsewhere, and vote against any request to do so. We cannot stumble into another unnecessary war due to a President’s impulsive and ever-changing policy positions. Thank you!”
More information: https://5calls.org/issue/rec6i8xdROFt1lHZv

–Call for Sean Spicer’s resignation
Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170
Edward Markey: 202-224-2742
Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101
Steven Goldstein, Executive Director of the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect, summed it up best: “On Passover no less, Sean Spicer has engaged in Holocaust denial, the most offensive form of fake news imaginable, by denying Hitler gassed millions of Jews to death. Spicer’s statement is the most evil slur upon a group of people we have ever heard from a White House press secretary. Sean Spicer now lacks the integrity to serve as White House press secretary, and President Trump must fire him at once.”
Sample script: “Hello, my name is _____, and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Sean Spicer’s comments today about “holocaust centers” and the Jewish people were outrageously offensive and insensitive. Please do everything within your power to call for his resignation, or for Trump to fire him. Thank you!”
More information: https://www.nytimes.com/…/sean-spicer-hitler-gas-holocaust-…

–Boycott United Airlines
On Tuesday, videos surfaced of a man being forcibly removed from a United Airlines flight. It was overbooked and after customers were offered vouchers and hotel rooms, nobody volunteered to leave the plane. Instead, United randomly chose four passengers. One man refused to leave, however, saying he was a doctor who needed to see patients the next day. Video shows him being dragged from his seat, his face bloodied. This is unacceptable behavior from an airline. Boycott United until they agree to change their policies!
More information: https://www.nytimes.com/…/united-airline-passenger-overbook…
___________________________________

The RRT (Rapid Response Team) Action List compiles action items from the week into one place. If you would like to add anything to the weekly update, please send it to Marissa Dupont on Facebook or at marissa.dupont@gmail.com using subject line “RRT”, or use hashtag #RRTin the Solidarity Lowell Facebook group.

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

RRT ACTION LIST 4/11/17 

Local

Postcards and Phone Banking – Tax Day Edition

Saturday, April 15, 11am-1pm, Gallery Z, 167 Market St, Lowell, Massachusetts 01852

An event to write postcards to our elected officials about issues important to us. Postcard ideas and some supplies provided, but more ideas and supplies are always welcome! Please bring a phone, a computer, and a headset if possible. If not possible, you’ll write postcards, or we’ll share!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/255591738183167/

 

Immigration Clinic: Receive Free Immigration Consultation

April 15, 11am-4pm, Lawrence Public High School, 70-71 N Parish Rd, Lawrence, MA 01843

Please join the offices of State Representative Matias in partnership with Lawrence Public Schools and the American Immigration Lawyers Association for the Lawrence Immigration Clinic. At the Immigration Clinic, those who register and attend will be provided with a free legal immigration consultation with an immigration attorney. 

For more information, please contact legislative aide Manny Cruz: (617) 722-2425 ext 7312

 

State

Tax Day Protest Boston-Cambridge

Saturday, April 15, 1-4pm, Cambridge Commons Park, Waterhouse St and Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA

Without Donald Trump’s tax returns, Americans are in the dark about his conflicts of interest, his foreign entanglements, and whether he even pays any taxes at all. We’re protesting to remind him that he works for us now. We encourage anybody and everybody who demands to see Trump’s tax returns to join us.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/595235454007911/

 

Insist that NCAA President Mark Emmert keep championship games out of NC


Address:

Mark Emmert

c/o The National Collegiate Athletic Association

700 W. Washington Street

P.O. Box 6222

Indianapolis, Indiana 46206-6222

After HB2 became law last year, the NCAA pulled championship games from the state for failing to “assure a safe, healthy, discrimination-free atmosphere for all.” North Carolina’s new law, HB 142, is still discriminatory and illegal. It still singles out transgender people. It still bars local governments from protecting LGBTQ people through 2020. The NCAA should know this. Tell the NCAA not to allow North Carolina to bid to host championship games.

Sample text: “Dear Mark, HB 142 is discriminatory and illegal by singling out transgender people and barring local governments from protecting LGBTQ individuals. Do not allow North Carolina to bid to host championship games. Stand your ground! Thank you!”

More information: https://ssl.capwiz.com/aclu-action/issues/alert/?alertid=76667626&type=CU&emsrc=Nat_Appeal_AutologinEnabled&emissue=LGBTrights&emtype=Capwiz&ms=eml_170411_LGBTrights_NCAAHB2&__af=query_string_encrypted

 

March for Science Boston

Saturday, April 22, 2-4pm, Boston Common, Boston, MA 

This Rally for Science celebrates the discovery, understanding, and sharing of scientific knowledge as crucial to the success, health, and safety of the human race. We join together to champion not only science itself, but also publicly funded and publicly communicated scientific knowledge as a pillar of human freedom and prosperity. We unite as a diverse and nonpartisan group to celebrate Boston as a space for scientists and scientific research and to support of five main goals: Communication, Funding, Policy, Literacy, and Improvement.

More information: https://www.marchforscienceboston.com/

 

Federal

 

Urge Congress to Grant Asylum to Syrian Refugees


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Now that the United States has begun military intervention in Syria, it is more urgent than ever that we provide asylum to the thousands of Syrians displaced by the violence and horrors of war. Call your representatives and urge that they support legislation to allow more Syrian refugees to seek asylum in the United States.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______and I’m from _____, Massachusetts. Please do everything in your power to support legislation and policies that increase the number of Syrian refugees who can get asylum in the United States. If our country is going to take military action against the Syrian regime, we must also offer protection to the civilians who will experience the fallout from our military interventions. Thank you!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/recJelSda7trqff5W

 

Prevent Further Military Escalation in Syria or Elsewhere


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

On April 6th, Trump retaliated against Assad’s chemical weapons attack by firing nearly 60 Tomahawk missiles at the airfield from which the weapons were launched. While Assad’s actions are atrocious, Trump’s swift and unexplained policy reversal regarding Syria calls into question the purpose and length of strategic planning behind the operation. Trump must seek the approval of Congress before any more military action takes place. 

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Please push for congressional approval before any further military escalation takes place in Syria or elsewhere, and vote against any request to do so. We cannot stumble into another unnecessary war due to a President’s impulsive and ever-changing policy positions. Thank you!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/rec6i8xdROFt1lHZv

 

Call for Sean Spicer’s resignation


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Steven Goldstein, Executive Director of the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect, summed it up best: “On Passover no less, Sean Spicer has engaged in Holocaust denial, the most offensive form of fake news imaginable, by denying Hitler gassed millions of Jews to death. Spicer’s statement is the most evil slur upon a group of people we have ever heard from a White House press secretary. Sean Spicer now lacks the integrity to serve as White House press secretary, and President Trump must fire him at once.”

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____, and I’m calling from _____, Massachusetts. Sean Spicer’s comments today about “holocaust centers” and the Jewish people were outrageously offensive and insensitive. Please do everything within your power to call for his resignation, or for Trump to fire him. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/11/us/politics/sean-spicer-hitler-gas-holocaust-center.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=first-column-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news

 

Boycott United Airlines

On Tuesday, videos surfaced of a man being forcibly removed from a United Airlines flight. It was overbooked and after customers were offered vouchers and hotel rooms, nobody volunteered to leave the plane. Instead, United randomly chose four passengers. One man refused to leave, however, saying he was a doctor who needed to see patients the next day. Video shows him being dragged from his seat, his face bloodied. This is unacceptable behavior from an airline. Boycott United until they agree to change their policies!

More information: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/11/business/united-airline-passenger-overbooked-flights.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=first-column-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news

 

The RRT (Rapid Response Team) Action List compiles action items from the week into one place. If you would like to add anything to the weekly update, please send it to Marissa Dupont on Facebook or at marissa.dupont@gmail.com using subject line “RRT”, or use hashtag #RRT in the Solidarity Lowell Facebook group.

................................................................
This email should only be sent to those who have asked to receive it. To unsubscribe, return to the web form where you first subscribed and click the "unsubscribe" button, or contact the owner of the website.

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team

RRT ACTION LIST 4/6/17 

 

Local

 

Immigration Clinic: Receive Free Immigration Consultation

April 15, 11am-4pm, Lawrence Public High School, 70-71 N Parish Rd, Lawrence, MA 01843

Please join the offices of State Representative Matias in partnership with Lawrence Public Schools and the American Immigration Lawyers Association for the Lawrence Immigration Clinic. At the Immigration Clinic, those who register and attend will be provided with a free legal immigration consultation with an immigration attorney. 

For more information, please contact legislative aide Manny Cruz: (617) 722-2425 ext 7312

 

Postcards and Phone Banking

Saturday, April 15, 11am-1pm, Gallery Z, 167 Market St, Lowell, Massachusetts 01852

An event to write postcards to our elected officials about issues important to us. Postcard ideas and some supplies provided, but more ideas and supplies are always welcome!

For more information, please contact Hope Anderson on Facebook or by email.

 

State 

 

Emergency Rally: NO WAR on Syria!

Friday, April 7, 6-8pm, Boston Common, Boston, Massachusetts

The United States has just launched air strikes in Syria. We will NOT be dragged into another war in the Middle East! War will not bring us “peace and harmony,” as Trump says. We’ve seen what the War on Terror has brought us for the past 16 years–more terrorists, more refugees, more dead children, women, and families. War is good for politicians and for weapons manufacturers, but not for the rest of us and we know that! We must act NOW!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1863096943910483/

 

Rally to Take Back Health

Saturday, April 8th, 12-1pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA

Saturday is a National Day of Action for Improved Medicare for All! Join Take Back Health, Mass-Care, Healthcare Now!, PNHP-MA, BUSM SNaHP, Harvard Medicine, Indivisible, and Right Care Boston in speaking out to defend the right to health!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/287385235015078/

 

Vigil in Support of Black Lives Matter

Wednesday, April 12, 5:30-6:30pm, First Baptist Church, 633 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, MA

Stand with others to denounce the ongoing murders of Black men, women and children. The speaker for this vigil is Chastity Bowick, who works as Transgender Health Coordinator at AIDS Action Committee and Co-Director of the Transgender Emergency Fund.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/262996764148662/

 

Tax Day Protest Boston-Cambridge

Saturday, April 15, 1-4pm, Cambridge Commons Park, Waterhouse St and Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA

Without Donald Trump’s tax returns, Americans are in the dark about his conflicts of interest, his foreign entanglements, and whether he even pays any taxes at all. We’re protesting to remind him that he works for us now. We encourage anybody and everybody who demands to see Trump’s tax returns to join us.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/595235454007911/

 

Federal

 

Ask Congress to Block the Deployment of Ground Troops in Syria


Elizabeth Warren: 202-224-4543 or 617-565-3170

Edward Markey: 202-224-2742

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

HR 1473 would prohibit the expansion of United States combat troops into Syria. It prohibits the Department of Defense from funding any attempt by the Administration to expand our presence in Syria by putting U.S. combat boots on the ground.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ and I’m calling from ______, Massachusetts. Please co-sponsor HR 1473 and stop expansion of troops into Syria. Thank you!”

More information: https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-barbara-lee-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-block-the-deployment-of-ground-troops-in-syria

 

Support HR 305, The Presidential Tax Transparency Act

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

The Presidential Tax Transparency Act (H.R. 305) is a bipartisan bill that will require all Presidents and nominees for President by major U.S. political parties to release their tax returns to the public.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _______ and I’m calling from _______, Massachusetts. Please co-sponsor HR 305, which requires all presidents and presidential nominees to release their tax returns. Thank you very much!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/rec0mNTKRTjt7DfOo

 

The RRT (Rapid Response Team) Action List compiles action items from the week into one place. If you would like to add anything to the weekly update, please send it to Marissa Dupont on Facebook or at marissa.dupont@gmail.com using subject line “RRT”, or use hashtag #RRT in the Solidarity Lowell Facebook group.

Posted by Greg in Rapid Response Team