Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group

A weekly six-session workshop starting July 10th, 7-9pm, in Lowell

Individuals committed to exploring their own racial biases are invited to participate in an Unpacking Whiteness Dialogue Group. The purpose of the group is to engage in supportive, structured dialogues with others to explore whiteness in contemporary society, especially to better understand the legacy and impact of white supremacy, white privilege, explicit and implicit bias, systemic racism, and microaggressions. Registration is capped at 10 and depending on interest, other groups may be formed. You will be expected to attend all six sessions.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/ZBEwvrvwRCa5KBgq9

 

SAVE THE DATE: Solidarity Lowell June Meeting

Sunday, June 23rd, 5:30pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting of Solidarity Lowell, featuring a speaker from the Merrimack Valley Housing Project (MVHP), group updates and announcements, updates from our subcommittees…and more! All are welcome! Hope to see you there!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/303575653919505/

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

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

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

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

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

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

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

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

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

 

Help Marius Cover His Lawyer’s Fees and Stay in the Country

Marius is a Togolese asylum-seeker, who has recently moved to Lowell to fight for asylum in the Boston federal immigration courts. Marius comes from a family of political dissidents fighting for greater democracy, and was forced to flee his country after his parents were murdered by the government. He has been threatened everywhere he’s tried to rebuild his life, and last year decided to journey across South and North America to seek asylum in the United States. But Marius cannot do it alone. The Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network is providing housing for him, but he also needs funds for legal, medical and living expenses. We need to raise $500/month for his living expenses, plus at least $2000 in lawyer’s fees so any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated.

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

More information: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. Solidarity Lowell is part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network, which helps provide a place to stay for immigrants at immediate risk of deportation. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email Solidarity Lowell’s Volunteer Coordinator at marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). Also, since the sanctuary space was empty for so long, the MVISN decided to open it up to asylum-seekers, and we have a guest there currently. If you’d like to help with his living expenses, please donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

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

Local Events and Actions

Moody Street Canal Cleanup

Saturday, June 15th, 9am-noon, Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, 581 Merrimack St, Lowell

The third Lowell Canalwaters cleanup for the season brings us back to Moody Street and the Western Canal where we’ll mostly be focused on removing floating litter and windblown debris from the water as well as a few toys that accidentally ended up in there. Hope you can join us.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1088482541335712/
African Festival: Our Culture is Our Gift to Cherish

Saturday, June 15th, 11am-7pm, Sampas Pavilion, 160 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell

Live music, dancers, performers, arts & crafts, food, info, and much more!

More information: http://www.africanfestivallowell.org/festival-flyer.html

Sign up to volunteer: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeO9_Sm20Ww8xaTYuctOsP-a_qDiWdHZ_YEpjgvWiY_WqiUeg/viewform?fbclid=IwAR1IbRwo1HhXvuTWRoiRENu0y7W4B8mB2XOiUCdqO0-LrqmQmZgqlVxM0_k

 

Decoding LGBTQ+ History in Lowell

Sunday, June 16th, 3pm and 6pm, Lowell National Historical Park, 246 Market St, Lowell

This is a special two-part program taking place on Sunday, June 16. Our 3pm walk will focus on some figures from the 1800s, and how we can understand LGBTQ+ history of Lowell in this era. This walk will end with some time to explore our Mill Girls and Immigrants Exhibit (40 French St). Our 6pm program will explore local LGBTQ+ in the twentieth century. We will discuss the nightlife of the 1950s and 1960s and more recent history in Lowell. This talk will also address the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall raid and riot of 1969. Both are free & open to all.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/366418074001990/

 

Immigrant Justice Strategy Session

Tuesday, June 18th, 6-8:30pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

Join a growing group of allies as we continue organizing our communities for dignity and justice. The meeting will cover several topics, including The Driver’s License Campaign (Work and Family Mobility Act H.3012 Farley-Bouvier & Barber & S.2061 Crighton), The Safe Communities Act (H.3573, Balser & Miranda & S.1401 Eldridge), and The Fair Share Amendment (Amendment to the Constitution: H.86 O’Day & S.16 Lewis)

Backpack Stories: World Refugee Day

Thursday, June 20th, 6-8pm, First United Baptist Church, 99 Church St, Lowell

For World Refugee Day, the New American Center in partnership with Massachusetts Baptist Multicultural Ministries hosts Backpack Stories. Global journeys shared by those who took them.

For more information or to volunteer, call Richard at (978) 710-9034

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

Town Hall with Rep. Lori Trahan

Saturday, June 15th, 10am, Parker Damon Building, McCarthy-Towne and Merriam Schools, 11 Charter Rd, Acton

This will be a great opportunity to hear Congresswoman Trahan’s update on her work so far in Washington, and for her to hear from us as her constituents.

Meet with Rep. Trahan about the We The People Amendment

Saturday, June 15th, noon, Parker Damon Building, McCarthy-Towne and Merriam Schools, 11 Charter Rd, Acton

Join We The People at their meeting with Congresswoman Lori Trahan to discuss their efforts at ending Citizens United and getting money out of politics. The We the People Amendment (H.J. Res 48) is the only effective amendment proposal filed for overturning Supreme Court decisions that have undermined our democracy.

RSVP to Info@WtPMass.org

Boston Rally to Impeach Trump

Saturday, June 15th, 1pm, Boston Common (across Beacon Street from the State House), 9 Beacon St, Boston

Join March For Truth: Boston and other patriotic citizens to unite in calling for Congress to #ImpeachTrump! Impeachment can wait no longer, given the criminal actions of this lawless president and his corrupt administration. At this rally, we intend to: clearly recap the case for impeachment, why it’s time, and why it’s necessary; amplify voices of some of those hurt most badly by Trump’s criminal actions, such as communities of color, LGBTQIA+ people, immigrants, women, the poor, and others; and encourage and empower attendees to pressure members of Congress to #ImpeachTrump.

More information: https://www.impeach.org/event/impeachment_day_of_action_june15/124946/signup/?akid=&zip=&source=MFT

Hearing on the ROE Act

Monday, June 17th, 1pm, Gardner Auditorium, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Bodily autonomy is a fundamental human right. And it’s at risk. With the appointment of anti-choice Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, President Trump and his allies have the best chance in a generation to end legal abortion. In such a climate, it’s important for states like Massachusetts to shore up and expand the protections granted in Roe vs. Wade. Next Monday, June 17, the Joint Committee on the Judiciary will hear testimony on the ROE Act (S.1209/H.3320). Parents, providers, young people, and advocates agree—no one should be forced to cross state lines for care. If you can’t attend, you can submit written testimony.

More information: https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/planned-parenthood-advocacy-fund-massachusetts-inc/issues/roe-act

Jericho Walk at the Burlington ICE Office

Tuesday, June 18th, 1-2pm, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

Join us for our monthly Jericho Walk at the ICE office in Burlington, MA. The Jericho Walk is a silent interfaith prayer and act of solidarity. The walk draws inspiration from the Battle of Jericho, in which the community marched around the city of Jericho seven times, causing the city walls to fall. The Jericho Walk of today is a silent, peaceful, and prayerful walk to bring down the walls of our unjust immigration system and is open to people of all or no faiths. Please bring signs calling for just treatment of those who are caught in our broken immigration system.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/590428254697623/

 

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Meet with Sen. Kennedy about the Progressive MA Agenda

Tuesday, May 28th, 5:30pm, Coffee and Cotton, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson St, 4th Floor, Lowell

Join us in convincing Senator Ed Kennedy to co-sponsor the bills in the Progressive Massachusetts agenda, including the Fair Share Amendment, the Promise Act, Debt-Free College, Affordable Child Care, Medicare for All, the Safe Communities Act, the HOMES Act, and more!

More information and to RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/2313472005588230/

 

Help Staff the Solidarity Lowell Table at Pride

Saturday, June 1st, 11am-5pm, Downtown Lowell

We’re looking for folks to join us in representing Solidarity Lowell at Lowell Pride! March with us in the parade, help set up, staff the table, and/or help pack up after the event. Use the form at the link below to let us know what you’re able to help with!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/QyUQKDW2NyYVwvj18

Help Staff the Solidarity Lowell Table at Acrefest

Saturday, June 8th, 11am-4pm, North Common Amphitheater, 431 Fletcher St, Lowell

We’re looking for folks to join us in representing Solidarity Lowell at AcreFest! Help set up, staff the table, and/or help pack up after the event. Use the form at the link below to let us know what you’re able to help with!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/jE82NWXwBPgEVbJd6

 

Immigrant Rights Committee and Potluck Event Planning Meeting

Monday, June 3rd, 6:30-8:30pm, Eliot Presbyterian Church, 273 Summer St, Lowell

We’ll be planning the Cultural Exchange Potluck event in conjunction with Welcoming Week Lowell 2019, and strategizing about networking with other immigrant communities.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1083943201808869/

 

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

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

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

Join the Elections Subcommittee

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

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

Solidarity Lowell Meeting Day/Time Survey

Our group has been meeting at 5:30pm on Sundays for quite some time, and we want to make sure that this is still the best day/time for our members. Please take this quick, one-question survey to let us know what days/times work best for you!

Click here: https://forms.gle/3cD4fCzgTTqMPuNs7

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

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

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

 

Help Marius Cover His Lawyer’s Fees and Stay in the Country

Marius is a Togolese asylum-seeker, who has recently moved to Lowell to fight for asylum in the Boston federal immigration courts. Marius comes from a family of political dissidents fighting for greater democracy, and was forced to flee his country after his parents were murdered by the government. He has been threatened everywhere he’s tried to rebuild his life, and last year decided to journey across South and North America to seek asylum in the United States. But Marius cannot do it alone. The Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network is providing housing for him, but he also needs funds for legal, medical and living expenses. We need to raise $500/month for his living expenses, plus at least $2000 in lawyer’s fees so any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated.

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

More information: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. Solidarity Lowell is part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network, which helps provide a place to stay for immigrants at immediate risk of deportation. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email Solidarity Lowell’s Volunteer Coordinator at marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here:http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). Also, since the sanctuary space was empty for so long, the MVISN decided to open it up to asylum-seekers, and we have a guest there currently. If you’d like to help with his living expenses, please donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

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

Local Events and Actions

Lowell Naturalization Ceremony: Help Register New Citizens

Wednesday, May 29th, 9:30am-1:30pm, Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E Merrimack St. Lowell

Come join the League of Women Voters and friends, and help up to 1000 new American citizens register to vote. It’s a very rewarding experience!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2410163585669373/

Lowell’s 16th Annual Refugee and Immigrant Conference

Thursday, May 30th, 8:30am-3pm, Middlesex Community College, 33 Kearny Square, Lowell

This year’s theme is “Global Trends and Local Integration”. The keynote speaker is Saida Abdi, LICSW, MSW., M.A., the Director of Community Relations at the Boston Children’s Hospital Refugee Trauma and Resilience Center.

More information and to register: https://www.facebook.com/events/452727321937960/

 

 

State- and National-Level Events and Actions

ICE Detainee Vigil

Sunday, May 26th, 2-3pm, South Bay Correctional Facility, 20 Bradston St, Boston

Stand in solidarity with those detained by ICE!

RSVP here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQals1YicEAHRqCWfJyecPaXI3itWp2O0rkDJ0WcpOwHImNg/viewform

Support Cambodian Democracy

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

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Please support HR1376/S.34, the Cambodia Trade Act, and HR.526, the Cambodia Democracy Act. Cambodia is not running its country fairly, human rights are being violated, and these bills are important steps in the right direction. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/1376/text and https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/526?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22h.r.+526%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1

Lobby Day for the ROE Act

Thursday, May 30th, 11:30am-2pm, Massachusetts State House, Room 222, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Lobby Legislators in person about the ROE Act because we have a critical opportunity to expand and protect abortion access in MA NOW!

More information and to RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdqQCV1NaPPY0U_SmHXbmmtUN0ymnbi66j7AOL8JM-hjv_J6A/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0SqbbwDzorf91xenrbT0ydB1hlSVYotiHdM4uUYo1yyRG_8gkFhZu-f1c

 

Stand for Reproductive Justice

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator):
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460 ←-thank him for co-sponsoring!
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425 ←– thank her for co-sponsoring!

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

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell asking you to immediately co-sponsor the Roe Act. Please stand up for reproductive justice and the rights and autonomy of those needing abortions. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/planned-parenthood-advocacy-fund-massachusetts-inc/issues/roe-act/roe-act-cosponsors

 

Free COSECHA Members Nelson and Heiner

On May 13th, 2019, ICE detained two much loved and active community members, Nelson Lopez and Heiner Nolasco, after a routine traffic stop. Nelson is a new father to a two week old baby – his sister is currently helping to care for his newborn. It is critical that ICE releases Heiner and Nelson and allows them to reunite with their families who depend on and love them.

More information and to donate: https://www.gofundme.com/free-nelson-and-heiner

 

Coffee and Convincing Rep. Golden About Ranked Choice Voting

Wednesday, May 29th, 2:30pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

There is no better way to show elected officials that this matters to their constituents than to have constituents say so in their own words. Come talk about why RCV is a priority for you.

RSVP here: https://www.voterchoicema.org/200_coffees_with_rep_thomas_golden

Can’t make the meeting? Call him! Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Ranked Choice Voting is an upgrade to the way we vote where voters get to rank the candidates in their order of preference instead of just picking one. This means that voters can vote their conscience without fear of wasting their vote and spoiling the election for more established candidates. Communities that use Ranked Choice Voting have seen many benefits such as higher voter turnout and satisfaction along with less negative campaigning — two huge issues in elections today. We need legislators like you who care about their constituents’ interests to support our movement. I hope you will support this improvement to our electoral system and democracy. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.voterchoicema.org/about_rcv

 

Local

Solidarity Lowell May Meeting

Sunday, May 19th, 5:30pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting of Solidarity Lowell! Featuring: a speaker from the Cambodian National Rescue Party (CNRP), group updates and announcements, updates from subcommittees…and more! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2376071762628964/

Help Staff the Solidarity Lowell Table at Pride

Saturday, June 1st, 11am-5pm, Downtown Lowell

We’re looking for folks to join us in representing Solidarity Lowell at Lowell Pride! March with us in the parade, help set up, staff the table, and/or help pack up after the event. Use the form at the link below to let us know what you’re able to help with!

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/QyUQKDW2NyYVwvj18

 

Meet with Senator Ed Kennedy about the Progressive Mass Agenda

Tuesday, May 28th, 5:30pm, Coffee and Cotton, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson St, 4th Floor, Lowell

Join us in convincing Senator Ed Kennedy to co-sponsor the bills in the Progressive Massachusetts agenda, including the Fair Share Amendment, the Promise Act, Debt-Free College, Affordable Child Care, Medicare for All, the Safe Communities Act, the HOMES Act, and more!

More information and to RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/2313472005588230/

Join the Affordable Housing Subcommittee

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

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

 

Join the Elections Subcommittee

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

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

Take the Solidarity Lowell Meeting Day/Time Survey

Our group has been meeting at 5:30pm on Sundays for quite some time, and we want to make sure that this is still the best day/time for our members. Please take this quick, one-question survey to let us know what days/times work best for you!

Click here: https://forms.gle/3cD4fCzgTTqMPuNs7

POC and Interested in Becoming a Teacher? Attend an Informational Session!

Thursday, May 16, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Wang Middle School, 365 W Meadow Rd, Lowell

To foster a more diverse teaching staff, the school department is looking to its own backyard. These sessions come amid a call from parents and officials for a teaching staff that better reflects the district’s majority non-white student body. A recent workforce report showed 91 percent of teachers in the district are white.

More information and additional sessions: http://www.lowellsun.com/breakingnews/ci_32592209/lowell-launches-effort-recruit-teachers#ixzz5m9GAJ1Hf

 

Chocolate Lovers Night – Benefit for Justice For Our Neighbors

Saturday, May 18th, 6:30-8:30pm, West Chelmsford United Methodist Church, 242 Main Street, North Chelmsford

All proceeds for Justice For Our Neighbors. Taste lots of chocolate and listen to the Living Stones Band. Only $8 for age 10 and up.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2222662864713963/
 

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

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

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

 

Help Marius Cover His Lawyer’s Fees and Stay in the Country

Marius is a Togolese asylum-seeker, who has recently moved to Lowell to fight for asylum in the Boston federal immigration courts. Marius comes from a family of political dissidents fighting for greater democracy, and was forced to flee his country after his parents were murdered by the government. He has been threatened everywhere he’s tried to rebuild his life, and last year decided to journey across South and North America to seek asylum in the United States. But Marius cannot do it alone. The Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network is providing housing for him, but he also needs funds for legal, medical and living expenses. We need to raise $500/month for his living expenses, plus at least $2000 in lawyer’s fees so any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated.

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

More information: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. Solidarity Lowell is part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network, which helps provide a place to stay for immigrants at immediate risk of deportation. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email Solidarity Lowell’s Volunteer Coordinator at marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). Also, since the sanctuary space was empty for so long, the MVISN decided to open it up to asylum-seekers, and we have a guest there currently. If you’d like to help with his living expenses, please donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

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

 

State

Through Migrant’s Eyes: The United States-Mexican Border

Sunday, May 19th, 3-5pm, Kerem Shalom, 659 Elm St, Concord, MA

Laurie Van Loon and some of her colleagues will speak about their recent experiences and observations at the US-Mexican border through Border Links.

RSVP here: Rosalie@keremshalom.org

Ranked Choice Voting Bill and Hearing Training

Sunday, May 19th, 2-4pm, Copper House Tavern, 380 Winter Street, Waltham

Make sure you’ve marked your calendar for Sunday, May 19th — we’re convening a statewide power team of activists and volunteers for a crucial training on bill hearings and lobby days. You don’t want to miss this opportunity!

More information and to RSVP: https://www.voterchoicema.org/statewide_may19

May Jericho Walk at Burlington ICE Office

Tuesday, May 21st, 1-2pm, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

Join us for our monthly Jericho Walk at the ICE office in Burlington, MA. The Jericho Walk is a silent interfaith prayer and act of solidarity. The walk draws inspiration from the Battle of Jericho, in which the community marched around the city of Jericho seven times, causing the city walls to fall. The Jericho Walk of today is a silent, peaceful, and prayerful walk to bring down the walls of our unjust immigration system and is open to people of all or no faiths. Please bring signs calling for just treatment of those who are caught in our broken immigration system.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/644715932641194/

Women’s Advocacy Day

Tuesday, May 21st, 5-9pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

Women’s Advocacy Day at the MA State House organized by The Massachusetts State Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW). Join us on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at the Great Hall of the Massachusetts State House for our 2019 Women’s Advocacy Day. Hear from elected officials and MSCW Commissioners, visit state Legislators, and make your voice heard!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2808716699352519/

Safe Communities Act Lobby Day

Wednesday, May 22nd, 10am-noon, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston

When immigrant rights are under attack, what do we do?  Stand up, fight back! The Safe Communities Act (S.1401/H.3573) will create a stronger Commonwealth by protecting immigrants’ rights and keeping law enforcement focused on public safety.  Join us for an exciting lobby day to push our legislators forward on this bill. Even if your legislator is an SCA co-sponsor, they still need to hear from you to keep this bill a priority.  We’ll start together with an overview of the SCA and how it would help our state, then split up to meet with our legislators and share our urgency with them. All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2337488646528004/

Support 2020 Census and Citizenship Funding

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

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

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Please support  Sen. Sal DiDomenico’s Amendment #14, which would establish a $5 million Census Complete Count Fund to support outreach to historically undercounted communities for the 2020 Census. Billions of dollars in federal funds and our political representation hang in the balance. Please also support Sen. Bruce Tarr’s Amendment #452 (Sen Tarr), which would fund the Citizenship for New Americans Program (CNAP) at $1 million, making the benefits of citizenship accessible to thousands more immigrants who can’t afford the cost and enabling providers to expand their outreach to new regions. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.tsne.org/blog/massachusetts-call-your-senators-today-support-census

Support Raising New Revenue and Investing in Our Students

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

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

Sample Script: “Hi, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Please support these amendments: Statutory Charter Tuition Reimbursement (Chang-Diaz, #323), which would invest an additional $90 million in struggling school districts that are losing money due to charter school growth by closing corporate tax loopholes. Funding Low-Income Student Undercount (Chang-Diaz, #320), which would add more money for struggling school districts that have been shortchanged due to a flawed methodology for counting the low-income student population. Corporate Tax Rate Restoration (Rausch, #53), which would raise the corporate income tax back up to 9.5%, raising $375 million in additional revenue. Aircraft Prats (Eldridge, #46), which would close an absurd tax exemption for sales of luxury planes, raising $21 million in additional revenue. And Single Sales Factor (Eldridge, #37), which would close a corporate tax loophole that lets corporations get away with not paying taxes on property and payroll, raising $143 million in additional revenue. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Budget/FY2020/SenateDebate

 

 

Local

Help Marius Cover His Lawyer’s Fees and Stay in the Country

Marius is a Togolese asylum-seeker, who has recently moved to Lowell to fight for asylum in the Boston federal immigration courts. Marius comes from a family of political dissidents fighting for greater democracy, and was forced to flee his country after his parents were murdered by the government. He has been threatened everywhere he’s tried to rebuild his life, and last year decided to journey across South and North America to seek asylum in the United States. But Marius cannot do it alone. The Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network is providing housing for him, but he also needs funds for legal, medical and living expenses. We need to raise $500/month for his living expenses, plus at least $2000 in lawyer’s fees so any amount you can donate is greatly appreciated. Also, he is in need of a rain coat, size men’s medium. If you can provide one, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com.

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

More information: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fig

Last Chance to Vote in the SL Coordinating Committee Election
Members in good standing who were not in attendance at the general meeting on Sunday have been emailed a ballot. Please vote! Ballots are due Friday, May 3rd. Results will be announced this weekend. If you have not received a ballot and believe you should have, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com
 

POC and Interested in Becoming a Teacher? Attend an Informational Session!

Thursday, May 2, 3:30-5pm, Butler Middle School, 1140 Gorham St, Lowell
Thursday, May 9, 2:30-4pm, Sullivan Middle School, 150 Draper St, Lowell

To foster a more diverse teaching staff, the school department is looking to its own backyard. These sessions come amid a call from parents and officials for a teaching staff that better reflects the district’s majority non-white student body. A recent workforce report showed 91 percent of teachers in the district are white.

More information and additional sessions: http://www.lowellsun.com/breakingnews/ci_32592209/lowell-launches-effort-recruit-teachers#ixzz5m9GAJ1Hf

 

 

4th Annual Lowell Sustainability Summit

Saturday, May 4th, 8:30am-12:30pm, LTC, 246 Merrimack St, Lowell

How can Lowell transition to clean energy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote an effective response to climate change? Let’s find out together. You’re invited to a morning of networking, collaborative conversation, and engaging presentations featuring a keynote address from UML Professor and Climate Change Initiative Director, Dr. Juliette Rooney-Varga!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/357898288150352/

 

 

May Day Labor Panel/Talk

Saturday, May 4th, 2-3:30pm, Lowell National Historical Park, 246 Market St, Lowell

Join Lowell National Historical Park for a special panel discussion on the history of May Day and Lowell’s connections to the events that took place in Haymarket Square in Chicago on May 4, 1886. What, to the American worker, do either of these events mean today? The panel will feature local experts Robert Forrant, Jeannette Huezo, Traci Parker,  and Elizabeth Pellerito. This free event will take place at the Visitor Center.

More information: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=54D90A4A-A7A8-C5FE-D074D7BDD1C1494E

 

 

2019 Lowell Earth Day Parade and Festival

Sunday, May 5th, 12:30-4pm, Lowell National Historical Park, 246 Market St, Lowell

The Lowell Earth Day Parade & Festival is an opportunity for organizations, individuals and families to gather together on the streets of downtown Lowell to celebrate the arts, nature, and sustainability. The festivities will feature a mile-long parade with local schools, puppets, costumes, and eco-conscious groups from the Greater Lowell area. Immediately following the parade, we’ll be holding a fun, family-friendly, sustainability festival at the UMass Lowell Inn & Conference Center (50 Warren Street Lowell, MA 01852), free, for all to attend.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1150948921750409/

Volunteer at and Attend the Points of Light Festival

Saturday, May 4th, 6-10pm, 282 Suffolk St, Lowell

Points of Light is a spring celebration of unity and renewal that brings together the food, music, and traditions of Lowell’s diverse cultures. The centerpiece of the night is a special ceremony in which participants personalize water lanterns that will be released onto the Western Canal, creating hundreds of floating points of light. The festival still needs lots of volunteers, for everything from cleaning up the canal to decorating lanterns with kids.

Sign up to volunteer here: http://www.pointsoflightlowell.com/volunteer/
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/379280495963159/

 

 

Lowell Votes Public Meeting

Tuesday, May 7th, 6-7:30pm, Pollard Memorial Library, 401 Merrimack St, Lowell

Want to get involved with Lowell Votes? Have concerns, questions, or ideas about 2019 elections? Just want to know what we’re working on? Join us to learn and share.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2304420259835422/

 

 

Second Planning Meeting for the Cultural Exchange Potluck

Wednesday, May 8th, 6:30-8pm, Eliot Presbyterian Church, 273 Summer St, Lowell

Join us to plan the potluck event in conjunction with Welcoming Week Lowell 2019, and strategizing about networking with other immigrant communities. Bring guests, all are welcome.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/355227692003124/

 

 

Unpacking Whiteness Workshop Series

Date and location TBD

Solidarity Lowell is organizing an Unpacking Whiteness workshop to help our white members understand how to confront white supremacy and their own personal biases, and learn how to be better global citizens. This six-week workshop is presented by Felicia Sullivan. Sign up using the link below to help us decide on which evening of the week this will be held.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/tPp98rQY9y9ztg4R8

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. Solidarity Lowell is part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network, which helps provide a place to stay for immigrants at immediate risk of deportation. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email Solidarity Lowell’s Volunteer Coordinator at marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “asylum” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). Also, since the sanctuary space was empty for so long, the MVISN decided to open it up to asylum-seekers, and we have a guest there currently. If you’d like to help with his living expenses, please donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

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

State

Light and Restoration: A Benefit Concert

Sunday, May 6th, 4-5:30pm, Temple Emanu-El, 514 Main Street, Haverhill

Though the worst of winter is behind us, many are still rebuilding their lives after the devastation of the 2018 Merrimack Valley gas explosions. Koleinu, Boston’s Jewish Community Chorus, and Temple Emanu-El join forces to present Light and Restoration: A Benefit Concert for our Neighbors in the Merrimack Valley. The concert will include choral music by Koleinu and will feature Temple Emanu-El’s own Cantor Vera Broekhuysen, Cantor Michael McCloskey of Temple Emeth, Newton, and a singalong led by Music Out Front, the musical arm of Mothers Out Front. All proceeds will benefit the Greater Lawrence Gas Explosion Fund.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/331810534029217/

Ask Our Reps to Support these Environmental Bills

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

House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

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

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. Please co-sponsor S.497, An Act to Protect Pollinator Habitat. This would establish a special commission to study statewide opportunities for improving pollinator health. Please also co-sponsor S.2005, An Act to Secure a Clean Energy Future. These bills are crucial to protecting our environment. Thank you!”

More information: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S497 and https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2005

 

Local

14th Annual Lowell Take Back the Night

Thursday, April 11th, 6-9pm, Lowell City Hall, 375 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Take Back The Night represents a world-wide stand against sexual violence, especially violence against women. Take Back The Night events have been documented in over 36 countries, in over 800 communities, with more locations taking a stand every year. We have reached over 30 million people with our message of strength and support, and our commitment to ending sexual violence. Take Back the Night will begin at Lowell City Hall at 6:00 PM for a rally and speakers. From Lowell City Hall, we will embrace our voices and take to the streets to march from City Hall to The Middlesex Community College Library. At the library, there will be a closed-room speak-out and open mic for survivors to be able to share their stories.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/323542541595326/

 

 

UML CASA Presents: Khmer New Year 2019

Saturday, April 13th, 6-10pm, University Crossing at UMass Lowell, 220 Pawtucket St, Lowell

The Cambodian-American Student Association at University of Massachusetts Lowell proudly presents to you our BIGGEST event of the year, our annual Khmer New Year celebration! Khmer New Year marks the end of the harvesting season and is a special time where farmers can celebrate all of their hard work and efforts. We invite you, your friends, and family to come join us in the celebration of the new year! This year, we will be celebrating the year of the Pig. There will be countless traditional and modern performances as well as delicious Cambodian food to satisfy your cravings, as part of your admissions fee! Join us for a memorable night filled with traditions and culture!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/322947691897300/

 

 

Demonstrate, Dine, and Discuss!

Friday, April 19th, 6:30-9pm, The Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly fun social visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to stand in solidarity peacefully and joyfully. Bring signs! We will also have some sign-making supplies if you’d like to make one. Then at 7:30pm, we’ll head down to Lao’De Cafe (108 Merrimack St, Lowell) to have some delicious food and/or beverages, and get to enjoy each other’s company! All are welcome! Bring along a partner, friend, neighbor, and/or a local student!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/428742667929246/

 

 

Unpacking Whiteness Workshop Series

Date and location TBD

Solidarity Lowell is organizing an Unpacking Whiteness workshop to help our white members understand how to confront white supremacy and their own personal biases, and learn how to be better global citizens. This six-week workshop is presented by Felicia Sullivan. Sign up using the link below to help us decide on which night of the week this will be held.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/tPp98rQY9y9ztg4R8

 

 

SAVE THE DATE: Solidarity Lowell April Meeting and SLCC Election

Sunday, April 28th, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting of Solidarity Lowell, featuring the Solidarity Lowell Coordinating Committee election. Four people are up for re-election, and there is one open seat. We encourage anyone who is interested to come and either nominate themselves or be nominated. Note: you must be a member in good standing (have attended at least three meetings) and not be currently running for Lowell City Council in order to be nominated. We’ll also take a look back at where we’ve been and discuss where we want to go in the coming year.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1129620467219536/

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. Solidarity Lowell is part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network, which helps provide a place to stay for immigrants at immediate risk of deportation. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email Solidarity Lowell’s Volunteer Coordinator at marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). Also, since the sanctuary space was empty for so long, the MVISN decided to open it up to asylum-seekers, and we have a guest there currently. If you’d like to help with his living expenses, please donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

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

State

Jericho Walk at Burlington ICE Office

Tuesday, April 16th, 1-2pm, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

Join us for our monthly Jericho Walk at the ICE office in Burlington, MA. The Jericho Walk is a silent interfaith prayer and act of solidarity. The walk draws inspiration from the Battle of Jericho, in which the community marched around the city of Jericho seven times, causing the city walls to fall. The Jericho Walk of today is a silent, peaceful, and prayerful walk to bring down the walls of our unjust immigration system and is open to people of all or no faiths. Please bring signs calling for just treatment of those who are caught in our broken immigration system.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1152620201611726/

Our Taxes, Our Choices: Tax Day Demonstration

Wednesday, April 17th, 4:30-8pm, Upham’s Corner Health Center, 415 Columbia Rd, Boston

Wars, military spending and tax cuts for the rich are hurting our communities and destroying the planet! At least 60% of annual US “Discretionary Spending” goes directly to the Pentagon to finance wars and military spending; the Trump tax cuts overwhelmingly favor the wealthy and corporations while limiting potential spending that will benefit our communities. We say: NO to excessive military spending, NO to tax cuts for the rich, NO to nuclear weapons, NO to military bases all over the world, and NO to war. We say YES to HOUSING, YES to EDUCATION, YES to HEALTH CARE, YES to JOBS, and YES to COMBATING CLIMATE CHANGE!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/254096648829154/

 

 

 

Local

First Planning Meeting for Cultural Exchange Potluck 2019

Monday, April 8th, 6:30-8pm, Eliot Presbyterian Church, 273 Summer Street, Lowell

Join the Solidarity Lowell Immigrant Rights Committee to help plan this year’s Cultural Exchange Potluck, part of Welcoming Week in Lowell. Feel free to bring guests!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/424543331631612/
 

My Humility/Our Humanity: Overcoming Obstacles at the Welcoming Table

Sunday, April 7th, 3-6:30pm, First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 2 Westford St, Chelmsford

Join the Greater Lowell Interfaith Leadership Alliance (GLILA) at their annual interfaith gathering against violence. At 3pm, gather to share stories and participate in activities and discussion. Then at 4:45pm, join in celebration, song, prayer, and reflection. Refreshments to follow.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/573299936498753/
 

Lowell Naturalization Ceremony: Help Register New Citizens

Tuesday, April 9th, 9:30am-1:30pm, Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E Merrimack Street, Lowell

Come join the League of Women Voters and friends, and help up to 1000 new American citizens register to vote. It’s a very rewarding experience!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/275085066743553/
 

14th Annual Lowell Take Back the Night

Thursday, April 11th, 6-9pm, Lowell City Hall, 375 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Take Back The Night represents the earliest world-wide stand against sexual violence, especially violence against women. Take Back The Night events have been documented in over 36 countries, in over 800 communities, with more locations taking a stand every year. We have reached over 30 million people with our message of strength and support, and our commitment to ending sexual violence. Take Back the Night will begin at Lowell City Hall at 6:00 PM for a rally and speakers. From Lowell City Hall, we will embrace our voices and take to the streets to march from City Hall to The Middlesex Community College Library. At the library, there will be a closed-room speak-out and open mic for survivors to be able to share their stories.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/323542541595326/
 

Unpacking Whiteness Workshop Series

Date and location TBD

Solidarity Lowell is organizing an Unpacking Whiteness workshop to help our white members understand how to confront white supremacy and their own personal biases, and learn how to be better global citizens. This six-week workshop is presented by Felicia Sullivan. Sign up using the link below to help us decide on which night of the week this will be held.

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/tPp98rQY9y9ztg4R8
 

SAVE THE DATE: Solidarity Lowell April Meeting and Coordinating Committee Election

Sunday, April 28th, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting of Solidarity Lowell, featuring the Solidarity Lowell Coordinating Committee election. Four people are up for re-election, and there is one open seat. We encourage anyone who is interested to come and either nominate themselves or be nominated. Note: you must be a member in good standing (have attended at least three meetings) and not be currently running for Lowell City Council in order to be nominated. We’ll also take a look back at where we’ve been and discuss where we want to go in the coming year.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1129620467219536/

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us at The Java Room! We will be writing postcards for upcoming municipal elections! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

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

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. Solidarity Lowell is part of the Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network, which helps provide a place to stay for immigrants at immediate risk of deportation. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email Solidarity Lowell’s Volunteer Coordinator at marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form). Also, since the sanctuary space was empty for so long, the MVISN decided to open it up to asylum-seekers, and we have a guest there currently. If you’d like to help with his living expenses, please donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/help-marius-stay-and-fight-for-asylum-in-the-usa?fbclid=IwAR3LDRCxbnncLMXBTul7dhAS73nc7mQHoNSMxrh8FfkYVdKlqs2Kp129liU

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

State

Bill Hearing for the Fair Share Amendment

Thursday, April 11th, 10:30am-1pm, Gardner Auditorium, State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston

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. With the the new revenue, Massachusetts will be able to invest in vital improvements to our education and transportation systems. Right now the highest 1% of income earners in the state are paying a smaller share of their income in taxes than any other income group. This tax will bring in new revenue and reinvest it into public schools for our children, affordable public higher education, and green and accessible public transportation for all.

More information: https://action.raiseupma.org/page/s/fsa-hearing

Take Action for Safer Communities

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

House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500

Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen 617-722-2425

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

A new Safe Communities Act (H.2573/S.1401) is before the state legislature. This bill would help restore community trust in law enforcement by disentangling local law enforcement from federal immigration matters and protecting due process for everybody.

Sample Script: “Hi, this is [Name] from [Address] and Solidarity Lowell. As your constituent, I urge you to protect immigrants across our state and increase public safety for all by supporting the new Safe Communities Act (H.3573/S.1401). The Safe Communities Act will protect everyone in our communities by focusing resources on public safety, rather than enforcing federal anti-immigrant policies. Massachusetts should join other states, such as California, Illinois and Connecticut, which have already taken similar action. Please urge the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security to advance the SCA and begin building a safer community for all Massachusetts residents. Thank you!”

More information: https://action.aclu.org/send-message/ma-safe-communities?ms_aff=MA&initms_aff=MA&ms=190401_Immigration_MA&initms=190401_Immigration_MA&ms_chan=eml&initms_chan=eml

 

 

Local

Improve Your City in Five Simple Steps

Thursday, March 14th and 21st, 6-8:30pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

The Incorruptibles’ mission is to fill all levels of government with unwavering politicians who fight for economic, racial, social, and environmental justice. Using a model that can be adapted to thousands of cities across America, we’ll show you how to elect multiple great candidates every election, filling local, then state, then national government. Organized in coordination with Solidarity Lowell, Progressive Democrats of Lowell, and Progressive Billerica, this program is free and open to the (progressive) public!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/561192427694687/

 

 

LunaFest Lowell 2019, Benefiting Budget Buddies

Friday, March 8, 6:30–9:30 p.m., UTEC, 35 Warren St., Lowell

Join us for the 3rd Annual LunaFest Film Night supporting Budget Buddies. Eight compelling short films by, for, and about women! Appetizers, a cash bar, women’s history trivia, a balloon pop, a silent auction, and more! All proceeds support Budget Buddies in its mission to empower low-income women through financial literacy. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., films start at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now! For more information, and to reserve your tickets, visit: http://charityauction.bid/budgetbuddies

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/205745920315141/

 

 

Ghana Independence Day and Flag Raising

Saturday, March 9, 11:00 a.m., Lowell City Hall, 375 Merrimack St., Lowell

Members of the Ghanaian community of Greater Lowell will celebrate their 62nd independence day with music, dance, food, and discussion. The Ghanaian flag will be raised outside City Hall, and the rest of the festivities will be indoors.

For more information, contact the African Community Center of Lowell at (978) 453-9128

 

 

Lowell Education Justice Alliance Legislative Forum

Monday, March 11th, 6-8pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell

Please join with the Lowell Education Justice Alliance for a legislative forum on education funding. Featured guests include State Senator Edward Kennedy and State Representative Rady Mom. Tell your story on why we need full funding in Lowell and greater Lowell schools. It’s time to hold our elected officials accountable for fixing the crisis created by chronic education underfunding. Co-sponsored by: LEJA, AFTMA, MTA, MEJA, UMass Lowell Labor Education Program, PHENOM, and SEIU 888.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2334180360153158/

 

 

Greater Lowell PRIDE 2019 Planning Meeting

Monday, March 11, 5:00 p.m., Onyx Room at Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Avenue, B Mill Box 122, Lowell

Please join Greater Lowell Health Alliance and History UnErased in planning for the 2019 4th Annual Greater Lowell PRIDE.  All are welcome and encouraged to attend. Bring your ideas, and suggestions, get involved, and help make this a spectacular PRIDE.

More information: (978) 654-6011

 

 

Focus Groups for Superintendent Search

Tuesday, March 12, 9:00-10:00 a.m., Robinson School Library, 110 June St, Lowell
Tuesday, March 12, 7:30 p.m., Stoklosa School Library, 560 Broadway St., Lowell
Wednesday, March 13, 5:30-7:00 p.m., Butler Middle School Auditorium, 1140 Gorham St., Lowell
Thursday, March 14, 4:30 p.m., Sullivan School Library, 150 Draper St., Lowell

Give your feedback about what is needed in the new Lowell Public Schools Superintendent.

For more information, email MPALAZZO@Lowell.K12.ma.us

 

Campaign Training with Mass Alliance

Saturday, March 16, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Lowell (location given upon RSVP)

Thinking of running for local office or helping on a campaign?  This training introduces progressive candidates and campaign workers (paid or volunteer) to the theory and practice behind successful grassroots campaigning. Attendees will learn from some of the best progressive campaign operatives in Massachusetts. The curriculum is a condensed version of a longer, two-day training offered by Mass Alliance and will focus on the basics you will need for a Spring 2019 municipal campaign. Apply today! https://goo.gl/forms/E5alphlqGpT8Wb5E3 Cost: $35. Please let us know in the application if this is preventative and we will work with you to make the training accessible.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/301045723916628/

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us to write postcards to voters and to our elected officials! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

Celebrate the election wins and shake off the losses with your postcarding friends from Solidarity Lowell and Indivisible Westford Progressive Massachusetts!

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form).

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

Save the Date: Solidarity Lowell March Meeting

Sunday, March 24th, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United (UCC), 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2258236224390787/

State

Final Push! No MBTA Fare Hikes!

Monday, March 11th, noon-1pm, State Transportation Building, 10 Park Plaza, Boston

The MBTA’s governing board will vote on the proposed fare hikes this Monday, at their meeting, but not before hearing public testimony from anyone who signs up. Join us there to speak up in this final push and keep up pressure on transit equity and sustainable funding, NOT regressive fare hikes!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/312760129436192/

Call in Support of the We The People Amendment

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [ZIP] and Solidarity Lowell. Please co-sponsor the We the People Amendment, H.J. Res 48. This is the only effective amendment proposal filed for overturning Supreme Court decisions that have undermined our democracy. We cannot make progress on all the issues I care about until we fix our democracy, so H.J. Res 48 is a top priority for me. Thank you!”

More information: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZKGB05pUQUW4I1rvnONGqDMElwdg7d1O/view

 

 

 

 

Local

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss: Diversity in Lowell Hiring

Friday, February 15th, 6:30-9pm, The Ladd and Whitney Memorial, 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly fun social visibility event! Special theme: Advancing diversity in hiring in the city of Lowell! Diversity makes us all stronger. At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to rally and celebrate peacefully and make a positive imprint on the community. Bring warm hats, gloves, and signs! After the rally, at 7:30pm, we’ll walk to Big Poke (96 Merrimack Street) to have some food and/or beverages, and get to enjoy each other’s company! All are welcome! Bring a friend, neighbor, and/or a local student!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/313074082652480/

Improve Your City in 5 Simple Steps

Thursdays from February 21st through March 14th, 6-8:30pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett Street, Lowell

The Incorruptibles’ mission is to fill all levels of government with unwavering politicians who fight for economic, racial, social, and environmental justice. Using a model that can be adapted to thousands of cities across America, we’ll show you how to elect multiple great candidates every election, filling local, then state, then national government. Organized in coordination with Solidarity Lowell, Progressive Democrats of Lowell, and Progressive Billerica, this program is free and open to the (progressive) public!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/259518168279577

Help Organize Take Back the Night

Thursday, February 21st, 5:30-7pm, The Center for Hope and Healing, 21 George Street 4th Floor, Lowell

In a community effort toward organizing a Taking Back the Night event (April 11th), we are hosting an open house for anyone and everyone who wants to get involved in the Take Back the Night rally, march, and speak out! Every year we come together to show survivors that we see them, hear them, and believe them. Join us to help build a community free from sexual violence. Volunteer opportunities include: leading a rally team, making posters, conducting surveys at the rally, entertainment, registration desk, handing out T-shirts, set-up and break down, outreach and marketing prior to event (and a free T-shirt!). Please attend to learn more and to sign up.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/323542541595326/permalink/335666290382951/

SAVE THE DATE: Solidarity Lowell February Meeting

Sunday, February 24th, 5:30-7pm, Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett St, Lowell

Join us for the monthly general meeting of Solidarity Lowell, featuring Mary Tauras presenting a discussion about how to have difficult conversations, Jonathan Cohn of Progressive Mass speaking about how the state legislature works, group updates and announcements, an update from the Immigrant Rights subcommittee…and more! All are welcome! Hope to see you there!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2161628877484513/

Develop Your Leadership Skills and Make Your Community a Better Place

By February 22nd

Empower: Building Leaders, Strengthening Communities is an interactive nine-week workshop series presented by Lowell Alliance and Coalition for a Better Acre that provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources to help them create and lead change at the grassroots level. Workshops are Thursday evenings for nine weeks starting in March. This program is free to Lowell residents.

More information: https://www.lowellalliance.org/empower-leadership-program

Chelms-FED Up Postcarding

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

Fed up in Chelmsford? Come join us to write postcards to voters and to our elected officials! Information, addresses, and supplies provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies and info as well. See you there!

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

Thursday Postcarding

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

Celebrate the election wins and shake off the losses with your postcarding friends from Solidarity Lowell and Indivisible Westford Progressive Massachusetts!

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

 

Help with Sanctuary

Assisting our immigrant community is one of the most important things you can possibly do. If you are interested in helping out with local sanctuary efforts, either with accompaniment, food, laundry, or otherwise, please email marissa@solidaritylowell.com. Training is provided and there is a session coming up in March. You can also donate to the cause here: http://www.merrimackvalleyproject.org/donate-1/ (please write “sanctuary” in the “special notes” part of the donation form).

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

State

Solitary Confinement Regulation Hearing

Tuesday, February 19th, 10am, Ashburton Cafe Function Room, 1 Ashburton Place, Boston

The DOC has changed their regulations in response to the criminal justice bill. However, while they appear to make an attempt to follow the letter of the law, they flout the spirit of the law entirely. It is clear from the regulations that they have no intention of releasing people from solitary confinement and they have turned the law requiring prisoners to be released at least two hours a day as an opportunity to torment them by designing “desks”, which can only be described as torture devices, that they are shackled to for several hours a day so they can not move and with nothing to do since the “programming” they provide is useless. Please come support family members and friends of prisoners who are being tortured through the overuse of solitary confinement in the DOC so we can end this inhumane, barbaric practice in the state of Massachusetts. Meet at Ashburton Place behind State House!

 

February Jericho Walk at Burlington ICE Office

Tuesday, February 19th, 1-2pm, 1000 District Ave, Burlington

Please join us for a monthly Jericho Walk at the Burlington MA ICE office. The Jericho Walk is a silent interfaith prayer and act of solidarity. The walk draws inspiration from the Battle of Jericho, in which the community marched around the city of Jericho seven times, causing the city walls to fall. The Jericho Walk of today is a silent, peaceful, and prayerful walk to bring down the walls of our unjust immigration system and is open to people of all or no faiths. Please bring signs calling for just treatment of those who are caught in our broken immigration system.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1983978208570235/

 

 

Tell Trahan: No Boots, No Beds, No Wall

Representative Lori Trahan: (978) 453-3200

Sample Script: “Hello, I’m [Name] from [ZIP] and Solidarity Lowell. I’m calling to thank you for standing strong against Trump’s demands for wall funding. I’m asking you to support a conference agreement only if it has no new money for the wall, detention beds, or ICE agents. Please oppose any conference agreement that has new funding for those items, and instead support a clean, year-long CR. Thank you!”

More information: https://act.indivisible.org/call/cr-reject-trumps-deportation-machine-and-wall?source=email_20190211_link1&utm_source=email&utm_medium=link1&t=12&akid=42548%2E682753%2EVyBHbx

 

 

Lowell Good News The Kindred Project has received the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Distinguished Service Award from the UMASS Lowell’s Office of Multicultural Affairs. https://www.facebook.com/LowellTheKindredProject/posts/2318200775091609 . . The Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association (CMAA) received a $5,000 grant for the CMAA After School Program from the Greater Lowell Community Foundation. http://www.glcfoundation.org/2019/02/04/greater-lowell-community-foundation-awards-135500-in-community-grants-to-18-local-nonprofits/ . . Massachusetts Good News The Massachusetts Legislature has filed three bills for its 2019-2020 session to protect the Merrimack River. https://www.merrimack.org/web/mass-lawmakers-file-bills-to-protect-merrimack-river/ . . The Massachusetts Legislature also adopted the gender neutral term “Chairs”, as opposed to “Chairman” and “Chairwoman.” https://www.masslive.com/news/2019/01/shifting-from-chairmen-to-chairs-beacon-hill-changes-gendered-language.html . . Bank of America is adding $750,000 to the $250,000 it donated last year to help build permanent housing for Boston’s chronically homeless. https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/01/31/bank-of-america-state-announce-funding-to-help-homeless/ . . The city of Watertown passed a law requiring solar panels on new buildings. https://www.wgbh.org/news/local-news/2019/02/01/watertown-requires-solar-panels-on-new-buildings-and-massachusetts-considers-following-suit-statewide . . National Good News Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby announced her office would cease prosecuting people for possessing marijuana regardless of the quantity or the person’s criminal history and has also requested the state vacate convictions in nearly 5,000 cases of marijuana possession. https://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/crime/bs-md-mosby-marijuana-prosecution-policy-20190129-story.html . . The Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act was introduced last week. It would build on a 2010 law that criminalized making or distributing videos depicting the killing or torture of animals. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/30/us/animal-cruelty-bill-felony.html . . Atlanta, GA threw its own extended Super Bowl concert, filled with the local and diverse talents that were missing from the event’s official halftime show. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/01/arts/music/super-bowl-atlanta-rap-concert.html . . Two senators reintroduced a bill that aims to strengthen protections for Native American women, who face above-average rates of murder, violence and kidnapping. https://abcn.ws/2Gb0v7j . . Amal Awad became the first black, first female, and first LGBTQ police chief of Hyattsville, MD. https://wapo.st/2Rd4x0x . . Girls ages 11 to 17 can now join Boy Scout troops in New Hampshire. https://www.wmur.com/article/girls-ages-11-to-17-can-now-join-boy-scout-troops-in-new-hampshire/26117889 . . Sparked by the wave of #MeToo revelations, companies seeking sexual harassment insurance are facing intense scrutiny and increased vigilance from insurers. https://theintercept.com/2019/02/02/workplace-harassment-insurance-metoo/ . . A federal appeals court has overturned FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s attempt to take broadband subsidies away from tribal residents. https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2019/02/ajit-pai-loses-in-court-judges-overturn-gutting-of-tribal-broadband-program/ . . Nevada’s statehouse begins its legislative session by marking a major milestone. It’s the first time in our nation’s history that any state legislature holds a majority of female lawmakers. https://www.npr.org/2019/02/04/691198416/a-first-women-take-the-majority-in-nevada-legislature-and-colorado-house . . The city of Sandusky, Ohio will no longer observe Columbus Day. Going forward, Election Day will now be observed in its place. https://www.npr.org/2019/02/04/691198416/a-first-women-take-the-majority-in-nevada-legislature-and-colorado-house . . International Good News The Lego Foundation announced it will distribute $100 million of funding over the span of five years to support a collaboration between Sesame Workshop, the International Rescue Committee, and the Bangladeshi relief organization BRAC. https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/legos-sesame-street-brac-irc-refugees-education/ . . A Dutch church’s nonstop 96-day vigil finally came to an end after its organizers received confirmation that a family of refugees sheltering inside the church would no longer face immediate deportation from the Netherlands. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/30/world/europe/netherlands-church-vigil-refugees.html . . The International Building Code is changing to recommend gender neutral bathrooms. https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2019/02/international-building-code-changing-recommend-gender-neutral-bathrooms/ . . Canada’s Supreme Court ruled in favor of denying accreditation to a Christian law school that banned students from having gay sex, ruling that LGBT rights come before religious beliefs. https://hopeforourtimes.com/canadas-supreme-court-rules-that-lgbt-rights-come-before-your-religious-beliefs/ . . A judge handed suspended sentences and community service to 15 people who broke into Stansted Airport, north of London, to ground a flight removing migrants from Britain. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/06/world/europe/uk-stansted-15.html