Rapid Response Team

Jan

2018

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

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

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

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

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

Regional Public Hearing on Women’s Issues

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

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

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

Lowell Open Space Plan Kickoff Meeting

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

Questions: openspace@lowellma.gov

SGLLWV Presents: Meet Your Lowell Elected Officials Reception

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

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

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

Postcards for Progress – January Edition

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

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

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

Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

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

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

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

State

Call About the 350 MA Environmental Priority Bills

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

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

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

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

Help Move the Financial Transparency Bill Out of Committee

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

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

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

Federal

Oppose Work Requirements for Medicaid Beneficiaries

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

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

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

Jan

2018

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

Local

Lowell Solidarity March and Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!

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

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

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

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATE! Postcards for Progress – January Edition

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

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

State

Stand in Solidarity with our Indonesian Neighbors

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

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

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

MA Clean Energy Call-in Day on January 17th

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

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

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

Federal

Don’t Let Trump Spy on Americans

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

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

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

Advocate for Medical Care for Those in Need–Without Strings

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

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

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

Fight Toxic Crop Chemicals

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

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

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

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

Jan

2018

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

Local

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

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

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

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

If the firing happens before 2pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Nobody is above the law! Donald Trump is publicly considering firing special counsel Robert Mueller. This would be a constitutional crisis for our country. Our response in the minutes and hours following a power grab will dictate what happens next, which is why an immediate response is imperative.

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

State

Protest Against Child Deportations

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

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

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

Support the Safe Communities Act

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

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

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

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

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

Federal

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

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

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

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

Advocate for Transparency in Political Advertisements

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

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

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

Dec

2017

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 12/15/17

Local

Postcards for Progress – December edition

Saturday, December 16, 1-3pm, Sweet Journey, 30 Central Street, Lowell

NOTE NEW LOCATION! It’s time for postcards again! Our post-election break is over, and we have a lot of important issues to write about. A list of suggested topics will be prepared shortly before the event based on what’s the most timely. Postcards, stamps, and pens will be available for your use, but you are welcome to bring your own supplies. Contributions of ideas are welcome but not required.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/517372881973532/

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

If it happens before 2pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

State

Support Automatic Voter Registration

Please contact your state representative and state senator (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460
Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

With Automatic Voter Registration (AVR), the State automatically registers eligible voters when they have contact with a State agency like the RMV. This system doesn’t change who is eligible to vote or how we vote, but eliminates inaccuracies and streamlines the voter registration process. Voter rolls stay updated and accuracy is improved.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _________from _______, Massachusetts. Please support the Automatic Voter Registration Bill, S.373/H.2091! This would boost registration rates, clean up the voter rolls, make voting more convenient, and reduce the potential for voter fraud, all while lowering costs. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.brennancenter.org/analysis/automatic-voter-registration

The Safe Communities Act Is Under Attack! We Need Everyone to Mobilize

SCA opponents are mobilizing and flooding the State house with often emotionally charged calls using information from the Southern Poverty Law Center identified Hate Group, FAIR. One rep has already received over 200 calls in opposition to SCA. We need to counterbalance that with calls for righteous justice!

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from ______, Massachusetts. Please fight for passage of the Safe Communities Act this session. It would protect the civil rights of all state residents by making sure our tax dollars are not used to help the Trump administration deport immigrant families or create a Muslim registry. Thank you!”

More information: http://www.progressivemass.com/sca-calls

Federal

Ask Your Reps to Fund the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from ______, Massachusetts. Please vote NO on any Continuing Resolution that does not provide adequate and long-term funding for CHIP. It is not acceptable that healthcare for children be sacrificed in order to give tax cuts to the already rich. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.minutemanindivisible.org/uploads/1/0/2/7/10278894/restore_chip_funding_12-11-17.pdf

The Fight for Net Neutrality is Not Over!

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

You know how we were protesting to save Net Neutrality and asking Congress to put a law in place to stop the FCC so that we could keep it? Well, someone in Congress listened (Rep Sean Patrick Maloney) and has introduced the Save Net Neutrality Act (HR4585).

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from _______, Massachusetts. I am your Constituent and I am asking you to support HR4585, the Save Net Neutrality Act, to help preserve our Open Internet. Thank you!”

More information: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dL6B9Hh4lT6xmFSRPmjzjFnXwkjcYCyDNJgVhO4UohE/edit

Put People Ahead of NAFTA’s Renegotiation

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _______ from _______, Massachusetts. Please demand that NAFTA’s renegotiation put people ahead of corporations. Eliminate NAFTA’s job outsourcing incentives and add labor, environmental, and climate provisions that meet fundamental international standards, include swift and certain enforcement, and raise wages for all workers. A vote should not be held until these essential standards are met. Thank you!”

More information: https://go.ourrevolution.com/page/content/nafta/

Dec

2017

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 12/8/17

Local

Solidarity Lowell Holiday Party!

Sunday, December 17, 5-8pm, Lynne Lupien’s house (address to be emailed)

Lynne Lupien has graciously offered to host our first annual Solidarity Lowell Holiday and Anniversary Party! It’s the one-year anniversary of the group and we want to celebrate! This party will feature board games, a pie election to show how Ranked Choice Voting works, and a ring and sing! We’ll send an email with the address shortly before the event so if we don’t have your email, please let us know right away! See you there!

RSVP HERE: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080945a8af28a2f49-solidarity

Your Voice Matters Community Action Forum

Monday, December 11, 6-8pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway Street, Lowell

Throughout the fall of 2017, community members, parents, teachers, school administrators and others met in a series of Community Circles around issues in education in Lowell. We heard their voices and opinions, and now it’s time to get to work! All are welcome to participate, and we will provide an overview of the project to everyone who wasn’t able to make one of the Community Circles. Food, interpreters, and child care will be provided.

More information and to register: https://www.yourvoicematterslowell.org/community-action-forum

Help Get Big Money Out of Politics!

Monday, December 11, 7-8:30pm, Pollard Memorial Library, ground floor meeting room, 401 Merrimack Street, Lowell

We the People Massachusetts supports a U.S. constitutional amendment to reaffirm that the rights protected by the Constitution are the rights of individual human beings ONLY (not corporations!), and that money spent to influence elections is not protected free speech and may be regulated! The We the People Act (no quotation marks) needs the support of Massachusetts state representatives from Lowell and beyond. Come to an educational presentation and make plans to meet with your state representatives.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/306770556491733/

Postcards for Progress – December edition

Saturday, December 16, 1-3pm, Sweet Journey, 30 Central Street, Lowell

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/517372881973532/

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

State

Boston Tea Party: Dump the GOP Tax Bill

Sunday, December 10th, noon, start at Boston Common and end at Boston Harbor

On Sunday, December 10th to join us to march from the Boston Common and fight for all those who will suffer under the GOP’s tax plan. There is time to beat this. Let’s stand together and send a message that we aren’t ready to back down.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/121924638591220

Support a Shared Leadership Model

Eileen Donoghue: 617-722-1630

Stanley Rosenberg’s leadership style of “shared leadership”—with its emphasis on engaging committee chairs and other Senate members in setting the body’s agenda—has helped the Senate produce stronger legislation than it might have in a top-down environment (according to the Boston Herald). We need Eileen Donoghue to pledge to continue that style of leadership, especially if she pursues the Senate Presidency.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from _____, Massachusetts. Please pledge support for Stanley Rosenberg’s shared leadership style of engaging committee chairs and other Senate members in setting the body’s agenda. Thank you!”

More information: http://www.bostonherald.com/news/local_politics/2017/12/smelling_blood_in_water_lawmakers_jockey_for_senate_president_role

Federal

Protect Dreamers!

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

On Sept. 5, Trump announced that he was terminating the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This Obama-era program provides relief from deportation for an estimated 800,000 young immigrants. Because Trump terminated DACA, over 10,000 Dreamers are estimated to have already lost their protections, and nearly 1,000 more will lose DACA each week and become vulnerable to Trump’s deportation force. Currently, Senator Elizabeth Warren is our only member of Congress who has pledged to require that the spending bill includes protections for DACA recipients.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____, from ______, Massachusetts. Please make a public commitment to stand with Dreamers. 27 members of the House and 5 Senators have already taken the Dreamer Pledge, and an additional 34 Republican Members of Congress signed a letter saying that “we must pass legislation that protects DACA recipients from deportation” by the end of this year. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.dreamerpledge.org/call-script/

Save Alabama from Roy Moore!

Phone bank to get out the vote in Alabama so that Roy Moore doesn’t get elected! This tool allows you to call registered Democrats to remind them to vote, right from the comfort of your own home (or wherever you want!). Or, sign up to text (don’t worry, it won’t share your phone number)!

Sign up to phone bank: https://facebook.us15.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4ddf4f662275a113eace693f3&id=532c28e16e&e=d7418dc73a

Sign up to text: http://bit.ly/R2B-Alabama and join this chat: https://openpr.gg/a/d8893ebc

For more information, email Lauren Young: lauren.young@gmail.com

Dec

2017

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 11/30/17

Local

Help Get Out the Word about The Scattered Site Tenants’ Union Meeting

The Scattered Site Tenants’ Union is having an upcoming meeting on Monday December 4th, 5:30pm at the Lowell Senior Center. We would love to have some volunteers help us make some phone calls or visit some homes on Saturday (a high of 51°). There’s a short questionnaire we would like to get out to some homes that will hopefully help us get a few more tenants interested in the Union as the Union expands to other issues beyond the LHA Sale. Please sign up to help make phone calls or do some door-knocking!

To sign up: https://www.volunteersignup.org/TFBTY

Lowell Drums!

Monday, December 4, 12-2pm, on the corner of Middlesex and Marston Street, Lowell

Lowell Drums is a bucket drum circle bringing the community together through song. The Lowell Community Health Center will be doing free blood pressure screenings. Warm refreshments will be served. For GPS, use 150 Middlesex St, Lowell, MA 01852.

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss: Save Net Neutrality! Protest Verizon!

Thursday, December 7, 4-7pm, Verizon – Freedom Communications, 1201 Bridge Street, #10, Lowell

Protest against the rollback of net neutrality protections! At 4pm, join other Team Internet members at the protest. Internet users outraged by top Verizon lawyer turned FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s plan to gut net neutrality are planning to protest across the country on Thursday, December 7th, one week before an expected vote at the FCC. The time is now to stand for net neutrality, not Verizon’s bottom line. Please remember, this event is about protesting actions of Verizon executives, lobbyists, and their supporters in Washington, not the employees at these stores. Bring signs! At 6pm, we’ll head downtown to Tremonte Pizzeria for some food and/or drinks! All are welcome!

More information and to RSVP: http://act.demandprogress.org/event/team-internet_attend/2015

Even if you can’t attend: On your computer, not your phone, go to: www.fcc.gov/ecfs/filings/express, then enter Proceeding 17-108 and in comments, say you support Title 2 oversight of ISPs.

Raise Awareness for Changing Lowell’s Voting System

There are a number of ways you can get involved to raise public awareness and build support for changing Lowell’s voting system, including hosting house parties to provide information about the lawsuit to your friends and neighbors, writing letters to your city councilors and local media/or organizing letter-writing campaigns, and coordinating visits to city councilors by small groups of residents to express your opinion on the lawsuit and current voting system. Please help spread the word about the benefits of moving to a ward or hybrid voting system!

More information: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B716TaA9X__OMUpLTjRqdnpybDR3V1NBWGxpWmQ5UGo4S2w4/view?usp=sharing

SAVE THE DATE: Solidarity Lowell Holiday Party!

Sunday, December 17, 5-8pm, Lynne Lupien’s house (address to be emailed)

RSVP HERE: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080945a8af28a2f49-solidarity

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

State

Volunteer to Pick Up or Sort Raise Up Petitions

We’re in the final phase of the Raise Up signature drive and it’s time to pick up certified signatures! We need folks to sign up for driving shifts going through Friday and again on Sunday and Monday. We also need sign ups for sorting shifts leading up to the December 5th turn-in rally in Boston!

Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1yNDBNTJOKEtMOtxMqN23G9nSp93b5QpAn6Nylx7hZP8/viewform?ts=5a158c99&edit_requested=true

Resist Deportations! Save TPS!

Saturday, December 2, 12-3pm, Massachusetts State House, Boston, MA

Save TPS! Defend DACA! Resist Deportations! No Wall! No border militarization! No Muslim ban! Permanent Legal Residence! Jail Joe Arpaio — Not Migrants! Resist Fascism! Rally at noon on the steps across from the Massachusetts Statehouse, then march to the JFK Federal Building.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2062238520729058/

Stopping the Rising Tide of Hate

Saturday, December 2, 4-6pm, Congregational Church of Needham, 1154 Great Plain Avenue, Needham, MA 02492

Featuring keynote speaker Lecia Brooks from Southern Poverty Law Center and a panel discussion on active hate groups in the US and Massachusetts, methods of spreading hate, reforms and economic policies to promote social justice, personal stories from the Boston area, and ways to promote tolerance and diversity.

RSVP here: http://www.progressivemass.com/progressive_needham_and_leticia_brooks_of_splc

Ask Governor Baker to Stand Against the Tax Bill

Governor Charlie Baker: 617.725.4005

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ________ from ________, Massachusetts. Please speak out more forcefully against the tax bill. Both the Senate bill, and the one passed earlier by the House, will disproportionately hurt Massachusetts and its citizens. It includes a repeal of the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate, which Gov. Baker had previously opposed, and analyses show the bill will raise taxes on working people in Massachusetts just to put more money in the pockets of billionaires and corporations. Please do everything in your power to stop this bill. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.minutemanindivisible.org/uploads/1/0/2/7/10278894/tax_action_for_mi_members_gov_baker-11-27-2017.pdf

Federal

Block Pharma Exec Alex Azar as HHS Secretary

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

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is responsible for the Affordable Care Act, food and drug safety, medical research and public health, and is critical to the future of health insurance. The Trump administration’s pick for HHS Secretary, Alex Azar, is deep in the pockets of the pharmaceutical industry.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _______ from _______ Massachusetts. Please oppose the nomination of Alex Azar for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Azar still profits from pharmaceuticals and his continued advocacy for the drug industry makes him a highly corrupt and appalling choice to lead the agency tasked with regulating it. Thank you!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/alex-azar-hhs-secretary

Nov

2017

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 11/23/17

Read the notes from Sunday’s meeting here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XUKrNa2K5UIfBahoyi6o_-Qp_ZjyhCas/view?usp=sharing

To weigh in on topics discussed at the meeting, please fill out the poll here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfW9Q2oR-8T633BnqFb1Q55orSUd35lVTbbF06U_Y1OlMV8QA/viewform

Hey, the Rapid Response Team Action List is ONE YEAR OLD! Crazy! A year ago in our first update we had nothing in the Local section (which is now almost consistently the longest) and were posting about saving the Dakota Access Pipeline… which unfortunately is moving forward. Should I mention we were already writing about saving Obamacare back then too? No? Okay. But you know what? This does help, it does make a difference, and we’re going to keep doing it! Onward!

Local

Lowell Transitional Living Center Needs Donations

Daily through November 29th, Lowell Transitional Living Center, 205-209 Middlesex St, Lowell

Look out for deals on bulk items this weekend and buy a gift for LTLCs Winter Emergency Bed Program: foot powder, chapstick, towels, disinfectant wipes, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, paper towels, mop heads, laundry detergent, sheets, pillowcases, hand sanitizer, flip flops, scrubs, sweatpants, socks, waterproof gloves, etc.

Find donation hours here: https://www.facebook.com/events/130249270986218/?active_tab=discussion

Lowell Drums!

Monday, December 4, 12-2pm, on the corner of Middlesex and Marston Street, Lowell

Lowell Drums is a bucket drum circle bringing the community together through song. The Lowell Community Health Center will be doing free blood pressure screenings. Warm refreshments will be served.

Raise Awareness for Changing Lowell’s Voting System

More information:https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B716TaA9X__OMUpLTjRqdnpybDR3V1NBWGxpWmQ5UGo4S2w4/view?usp=sharing

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

If it happens before 2pm, the event will be held at 5pm the same day. If it happens after 2pm, the event will be held at noon the following day. Location is the island outside City Hall, across from Cobblestones, 309 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

State

Resist Deportations! Save TPS!

Saturday, December 2, 12-3pm, Massachusetts State House, Boston, MA

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2062238520729058/

Stopping the Rising Tide of Hate

Saturday, December 2, 4-6pm, Congregational Church of Needham, 1154 Great Plain Avenue, Needham, MA 02492

RSVP here: http://www.progressivemass.com/progressive_needham_and_leticia_brooks_of_splc

Federal

Defend Bears Ears National Monument

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

From the Bears Ears Coalition website, “The proposed reduction in size would leave thousands of sites more vulnerable to vandalism, compromise the integrity of the landscape as a whole, and disrespect the unified voices of tribal nations that have consistently called for Bears Ears to be protected.”

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ________ from _______, Massachusetts. Please protect Bears Ears National Monument and vote against any bill dividing up this protected land. It sets an extremely irresponsible precedent for other parks and monuments going forward. Thank you!”

More information: https://bearsearscoalition.org/

Nov

2017

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 11/2/17

Local

Help at the Polls on Tuesday!

Local progressive groups are working together to coordinate a polling place signup for people who want to promote LHS Downtown candidates and those who support progressive values. You don’t have to live and vote in Lowell to help out on election day, just be willing to take a shift (or more) outside of a polling place (beyond 150 feet!). All you need to do is hold a sign and talk about progressive candidates! Sites, addresses, and available times are listed in the spreadsheet. There’s a space at the bottom to note if you need signs to hold or literature to hand out, so one or more of the organizations can hook you up.

To sign up: https://goo.gl/WSjfQJ

Make a Plan to Vote on November 7th!

Check out the Lowell Votes Voting Guide here: http://www.lowellvotes.org/2017guide/

Find information about polling places here: http://wheredoivoteMA.com

Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss

Friday, November 10th, 6:30-8:30pm, Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to protest against the recent atrocities of the Trump administration. Please bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, come to Lowell Burger Company (143 Merrimack Street) to have some drinks/food and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/242924869569788/

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

Sign up to be notified: https://act.moveon.org/event/mueller-firing-rapid-response-events/14830

State

Healthcare Enrollment Has Begun!

Open enrollment for next year began November 1st in Massachusetts, and ends on January 23rd, but in many states it runs only until Dec. 15th.

Find fact sheets, scripts, and flyers here: https://www.indivisible.org/resource/open-enrollment-organizing-toolkit/

Rally in Solidarity with People Protected by TPS

Wednesday, November 8th, 11am, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a form of immigration status that provides employment authorization and protection from deportation for foreign nationals who cannot be safely returned to their home countries. Join us for a rally to support the TPS program!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1869727596676897

Hearing on the We The People Act

Wednesday, November 8th, 2-5pm, Massachusetts State House, Hearing Rooms B1 & B2, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA

The Joint Committee on Veteran and Federal Affairs will hold a hearing on H.1926, the We the People Act, filed in the House by Rep. Carmine Gentile, of Sudbury. This bill aims to convene a Constitutional Convention to consider amendments to the Constitution to limit the influence of money in our political system. Our bill is the only bill being heard that day that is expected to have citizens coming to it, so we need to PACK THIS DOUBLE SIZED ROOM!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1996941123894057/

Join Us for the 2nd MA Indivisible Conference

Sunday Nov. 12, 9am-5pm, Worcester State University, Worcester, MA

Coming one year after the disastrous election of 2016 and one year before the critical midterm election of 2018, this 2nd statewide conference is focused on skills training, getting ready for the 2018 elections now, and how Massachusetts can counteract the negative effects of the Trump agenda. There will be training and critical workshops to give groups the tools they need to up their activism game and opportunities to connect with other groups for more coordinated action post-conference. Elizabeth Warren is the keynote speaker so register now before it sells out!

More information and to register: https://www.indivisible-ma.org/

Take Action for Criminal Justice Reform

Please contact your state representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

In these times, it’s so important that Massachusetts lead the way forward on long overdue justice reforms in the criminal legal system. For too long, and through a series of systemic practices, our justice system has exacerbated the worst injustices of racism and imprinted too many Massachusetts communities and families with long-term harm with ineffective and inhumane practices (like nearly unlimited solitary confinement without oversight).

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from _____, Massachusetts. Please work to ensure the strongest reforms that address mass incarceration, the disproportionate and racist impact of the current system, and thoughtful investments in smart justice. Specifically, please ensure that this bill repeals mandatory minimums, and does NOT add new ones, increases the threshold for a felony for larceny from $250 to $1,500, eliminates excessive probation and parole fees, raises the age of criminal majority, reduces the length of time before a criminal record can be sealed, enables DAs and police departments to embrace restorative justice as an alternative to incarceration, and ends the punitive use of solitary confinement. Thank you!”

More information: http://www.progressivemass.com/cjr-takeaction

Federal

Demand Congress Oppose a Mueller Firing

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

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _____ from ______, Massachusetts. Please support S.1735/H.R.3654, the Special Counsel Independence Protection Act, and make a public statement that the firing of Special Counsel Mueller by Trump would be completely unacceptable. It’s the duty of Congress to serve as a check on Trump and prevent him from sending our democracy into a tailspin. Thank you!”

More information: https://5calls.org/issue/oppose-mueller-firing

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.

Oct

2017

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 10/27/17

Local

Lowell Scattered Site Meeting and Volunteer Opportunities

Monday, October 30th, 5:30-7pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell

The tenants’ union currently has 4 steering committee members working with the legal team, but we are still seeking an additional 4-6 members. Community allies like yourselves are invited to attend, listen and provide support as agreed upon by the steering committee. Please RSVP. If you can’t attend, we can always benefit from more interpreters (Spanish and Khmer), drivers and outreach volunteers.

To RSVP or to volunteer, contact MTauras@ywcaoflowell.org or 978-454-5405 ext 132

International Institute of New England Volunteer Information Session

Monday, October 30th, 6pm, IINE Lowell, 17 Warren St, Lowell

Learn about the volunteer opportunities available: ESL classroom aides, front desk/reception positions, citizenship assistance, and more!

More information and to register: https://iine.org/event/iine-boston-volunteer-information-session/

United Teachers of Lowell City Council Candidate Forum

Monday, October 30th, 6:30pm, Lowell High Little Theater, 50 Father Morrissette Blvd, Lowell

Take this opportunity to mingle with our City Council candidates and discuss issues that are important to you!

(I could not find a website or Facebook event for this so unfortunately do not have additional information. Sorry!)

Make a Plan to Vote on November 7th!

Find information about polling places, absentee ballots, and more here: http://www.vote411.org/

SAVE THE DATE: Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!

Friday, November 10th, 6:30-8:30pm, Ladd and Whitney Memorial (the island outside City Hall), 309 Merrimack Street, Lowell

Join us for Solidarity Lowell’s monthly visibility event! At 6:30pm, join us at the island in front of City Hall to protest against the recent atrocities of the Trump administration. Please bring signs! Then at 7:30pm, come to Lowell Burger Company (143 Merrimack Street) to have some drinks and discuss the events of the week! All are welcome!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/242924869569788/

State

Boston Takes a Knee for Justice

Sunday, October 29th, 1pm, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston

The silent protest started by former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick to kneel during the national anthem in protest to the scourge of police violence and brutality disproportionately meted out to Black people has continued to spread. On the one year anniversary of the deadly police shooting of Terrence Coleman in Boston, MA we call on all supporters of this righteous protest to join with us as we stand up to the backlash and bring the focus back to the victims of police brutality and their families.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/683570111837094/

The Trump/Pence Regime Must Go!

November 4th, 4pm, Shoppers Plaza, 1 Franklin Street, Boston, MA

Take to the streets and public squares in cities and towns across the country continuing day after day and night after night–not stopping–until our demand is met. This nightmare must end. In the name of humanity, we REFUSE to accept a fascist America! Millions feel this and ache with the question of how to stop this unrelenting horror. Our protest must grow day after day and night after night, determined to act to put a stop to the grave danger that the Trump/Pence Regime poses to the world by demanding that this whole regime be removed from power.

More information: https://refusefascism.org/2017/08/06/this-nightmare-must-end-the-trumppence-regime-must-go/
Reject the Pipeline Tax

Please contact your representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/) AND your senator:
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460
Sen. Eileen Donoghue 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett 617-722-1572

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from ______, Massachusetts. Eversource, National Grid, and Enbridge have said that they need the legislature to pass a pipeline tax on ratepayers to fund the Access Northeast Pipeline project. Access Northeast is estimated to cost $6 billion- double the initial estimates. Eversource may have artificially constrained gas capacity to justify the project. This is not right and possibly criminal. To fight climate change we need renewable energy and efficiency, not new pipelines. Please sign onto Rep. Kulik and Rep. Gordon’s joint testimony against the pipeline tax. Thank you!”

More information: http://350mass.betterfutureproject.org/call_rep?utm_campaign=pipelinetaxon2&utm_medium=email&utm_source=betterfutureproject

Ban Elephants in Entertainment Acts

Gov. Cuomo signed a NY circus elephant ban, so let’s all work together to make Massachusetts next. “The use of elephants in these types of settings is dangerous to their health and potentially abusive,” Cuomo said in a statement. “The Elephant Protection Act furthers this administration’s efforts to fight animal cruelty, and create a stronger, more humane New York.”

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _______ from _______, Massachusetts. Please support S.1898/H.418, The Elephant Protection Act, to ban elephants in entertainment acts. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.mspca.org/animal_protection/circus-animal-welfare/

Keep Bay Staters Safe from Gun Violence

Please contact your representative (find yours here https://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/):
Rep. Thomas Golden 617-722-2263
Rep. David Nangle 617-722-2520
Rep. Rady Mom 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry 617-722-2380
Rep. James Lyons 617-722-2460

In Massachusetts, Representative David Linsky (Natick) has introduced a bill in the Massachusetts House of Representatives that will help keep Bay Staters safe from gun violence and massacres like the recent Las Vegas Strip shooting: H3081.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from ______, Massachusetts. Please support H3081, which establishes Extreme Risk Protective Orders that allow police and family members to petition the courts for temporary removal of firearms from people who have demonstrated that they are a risk to themselves or others. Thank you!”

More information: http://org2.salsalabs.com/o/5610/c/1599/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=25423

Federal

Oppose the Medicare and Medicaid Cuts

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

Among the many things wrong with the budget resolution that just passed in the Senate are significant cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. This Republican budget would cut Medicaid by $1 trillion and Medicare by almost $500 billion over the next decade. The Senate passed the measure 51-49 with all the Senate Republicans except Rand Paul (R-KY) voting in favor. Action on the measure now moves back to the House, which may vote to adopt the Senate resolution later this week.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from _______, Massachusetts. I’m calling to express my opposition to the healthcare spending cuts included in the 2018 Budget Resolution. Please do everything in your power to stop these cuts. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/19/51-gop-senators-just-voted-cut-15-trillion-medicare-and-medicaid-give-super-rich-and

Protect Access to Birth Control

Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101

On October 6th, Donald Trump penned another anti-woman Executive Order, allowing employers and insurers to take away coverage for birth control. Thankfully, The Democratic Women’s Working Group (DWWG), introduced the Protect Access to Birth Control Act.

Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ______ from _______, Massachusetts. Please support the Protect Access to Birth Control Act, which would override Trump’s Executive Order and require employers to continue to provide access to birth control. Thank you!”

More information: https://www.wallofus.org/posts/207/take-trumps-hands-off-of-birth-control

Oct

2017

SOLIDARITY LOWELL RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR 10/21/17

LOCAL:

–SOLIDARITY LOWELL MEETING
Sunday, October 22nd, 5pm, Mill No. 5, 5th Floor, 250 Jackson St, Lowell
The monthly general meeting for members of Solidarity Lowell. On the agenda: a presentation by Russ Davis of Raise Up, the results of our City Council candidate survey, volunteer opportunities with Lowell Votes, the importance of neighborhood group meetings, new policies for the Facebook group and page, possible creation of a Slack channel, tabling locations, possible new meeting locations, group updates, and more! See you there!
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/335777956887450/

–Postcards for Progress – Help Lowell Vote!
Saturday, October 21st, 1-3pm, Gallery Z, 167 Market St, Lowell
It’s time for postcards again! In addition to all of the things happening in the country that we need to write postcards about, we’re getting out the vote for OUR OWN city’s upcoming election! Let’s do this!
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1895191457467153/

–Help Tenants Forced Out of Their Homes to Learn about their Rights
Lowell Alliance wants to continue to reach residents of the Lowell scattered sites by phone or through home visits to keep an updated contact list on how to best keep in touch. There are a few tenants who are not engaged and we want to make sure they are still receiving updates on what is currently happening. To volunteer or support us in
other ways, contact MTauras@ywcaoflowell.org or 978-454- 5405 ext 132

–City Council Candidating Forum
Monday, October 23, 5:30-8pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell
Join Coalition for a Better Acre and Lowell Votes for a chance to meet City Council candidates in a fun, friendly environment. Candidates will move from table to table, just like with “speed dating”. You’ll be able to ask your questions so you can decide who to vote for on November 7th. Spanish and Khmer interpreters, food, drinks, and child care will be available.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1971837663032534/

–Stand for Indigenous People by Standing Up To Big Banks
Monday, October 23rd, 2pm, TD Bank, 45 Central Street, Lowell
On October 23rd, 92 of the world’s largest banks will meet in São Paolo, Brazil to discuss policies on the climate and Indigenous Peoples’ rights to Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC). Mazaska Talks is calling on indigenous people and allies everywhere to join us for mass global action that make it clear to the banks: financing climate disaster and the abuse of Indigenous Peoples will result in a massive global divestment movement.
Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdtvMHGmDauTnLdwxXW9zNKKIfnyTPBFhY184pPo0FiPuk-LA/viewform?usp=sf_link

–School Committee Candidating October CHOP Dinner
Wednesday, October 25, 5:30-8pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway St, Lowell
Join Coalition for a Better Acre and Lowell Votes for a chance to meet School Committee candidates in a fun, friendly environment. Candidates will move from table to table, just like with “speed dating”. You’ll be able to ask questions so you can decide who to vote for on November 7th. This event is combined with our CHOP Dinner for October, which will be provided by CBA All-Star/celebrity chef Jennifer Myers, who will be making personal pot pies!
More information: https://www.evensi.us/school-committee-candidating-october-chop-dinner-lowell/228426279

–City Council Candidate Meet & Greet Social
Thursday, October 26, 6:30pm, 101 West Forest Street, Lowell
Hosted by the Highlands Neighborhood Association. Take this opportunity to mingle with our City Council candidates and discuss issues that are important to you!
(I could not find a website or Facebook event for this so unfortunately do not have additional information. Sorry!)

STATE:

–Cancel the Debt: Solidarity Rally and Fundraiser for Puerto Rico
Saturday, October 21, 1-3pm, Baupost Private Investments Bviii, 10 St James Ave, Boston, Massachusetts 02116
On October 3rd, the Intercept broke a story about one of the largest holders of Puerto Rican debt, a Boston based company linked to billionaire Seth Klarman: “The Baupost Group, a Boston-based hedge fund managed by billionaire Seth Klarman, owns nearly $1 billion of Puerto Rican debt, purchased under a shell company subsidiary and hidden from public scrutiny. Baupost acquired the debt through an on-paper Delaware-based corporation named Decagon Holdings LLC, whose beneficial owner had been unknown until now.” (https://theintercept.com/2017/10/03/we-can-finally-identify-one-of-the-largest-holders-of-puerto-rican-debt/)
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1730355163675437/

FEDERAL:

–Fix the Criminal Justice Reform Bill
Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
Express your support for the positive reforms included in the bill, but also let them know they need to make sure Massachusetts keeps people out of jail who don’t belong there.
Sample Script: “Hello, my name is _______ from _______, Massachusetts. S.2170 includes many positive provisions, but there are elements that still need improvement. Please work to fully repeal mandatory minimum sentences for all drug offenses, prevent changes to the bail statute that could result in more people locked up before trial, and ensure meaningful reforms to fix lengthy solitary confinement. Thank you!”
More information: https://ssl.capwiz.com/aclu/issues/alert/?alertid=78885626&type=ST

–Ask Niki Tsongas to Support the Do No Harm Act
Niki Tsongas: 978-459-0101
The Do No Harm Act will ensure that this country continues to protect true religious freedom for all, without allowing religion to be used to hurt others. Specifically, the Do No Harm Act would clarify that the Religious Freedom Restoration Act can’t be used to exempt anyone from laws that prohibit discrimination, require equal pay, protect child welfare, or guarantee access to health care.
Sample Script: “Hello, my name is ________ from _________, Massachusetts. Please co-sponsor the Do No Harm Act (H.R. 3222) today. Religious freedom is a critical founding principle of this country, but it doesn’t allow anyone to discriminate against or harm others. Thank you!”
More information: https://action.aclu.org/secure/DoNoHarmAct2017

————-
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.

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

Regional Public Hearing on Women’s Issues

Lowell Open Space Plan Kickoff Meeting

SGLLWV Presents: Meet Your Lowell Elected Officials Reception

Postcards for Progress – January Edition

Solidarity Lowell Meeting – note new location!

Federal

Local

Lowell Solidarity March and Demonstrate, Drink, and Discuss!

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

SAVE THE DATE! Postcards for Progress – January Edition

Local

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

A Rapid Response Rally if Mueller is Fired

State

Federal

Learn more:

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