Rapid Response Team

Aug

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR AUGUST 30, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Marius Needs Assistance

From: Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN)
Unfortunately, Marius has had some bad luck this month. The truck that he had been using for work caught fire and was a total loss. He is currently seeking employment so if anyone has any leads, please pass them along to marissa@solidaritylowell.com. He will also need financial assistance until he is able to find another job. And with the baby coming, he and Lillian need all the help they can get! Please donate through the GoFundMe. Any assistance is appreciated!
https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

Lowell Events

Tara Hong’s Scheduled Standouts

Tuesday, August 30 4:00-6:00pm near K Market (School and Westford, 258 Westford)
Wednesday, August 31 4:00-6:00pm Chelmsford St 99 (Chelmsford and Steadman, 850 Chelmsford)
Thursday, September 1 4:00-6:00pm Senior Center (276 Broadway)
Friday, September 2 4:00-6:00pm near K Market (School and Westford, 258 Westford)

Who Wants to be a State Rep (Candidate forum for 16th Middlesex)

Thursday, September 1, 5:30pm (Programs starts 6:00pm)
St. Michaels Church
https://www.facebook.com/events/3154124494903414

Join Lowell Votes for a night of food, fun, and a forum with your Candidates for State Representative! Live interpretation will be provided in Spanish and Khmer.

Join in person or virtually as candidates Zoe Dzineku, Rodney Elliott, and possibly Karla Miller answer questions on issues ranging from public education to the economy.

Can’t watch in person? Watch live on Channel 8 in Lowell or on LTC Youtube at: https://youtu.be/3Fl4Da5oOho

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our area.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe
Sign up to volunteer, check out their schedule and more.

Next events

Saturday September 3, 9am-12pm ~ East Pawtucketville Sweep
Meet at Cumnock Hall, UMass Lowell (31 University Ave)

Saturday September 10, 9am-11am ~ Upper Merrimack/Market Sweep
Prior to Taste the Acre and Vibe Fest
Meet at Nibbana Café (12 Cardinal O’Connell Pkwy)

~Lunch provided by City Hall Café between events~

Saturday September 10, 1:30am-4:30pm ~ Recycling Team
Taste the Acre and Vibe Fest
JFK Plaza

Saturday September 17, 9am-2pm ~ Volunteer Your Support!
Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race
https://www.lowellkinetic.com/take-action

Saturday September 24, 9am-11am ~ Public Lands Day
With Canalwaters and NPS
Meet at Davidson St

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30pm-6pm with Life Connections’ Jump Start Jobs Program

Other Events

Help Get Out the Vote-When More People Vote, More Progressives Win

Wednesdays, August 31 12pm-3pm
Join a Mass Voter Table phone bank encouraging folks to vote by mail.
https://actionnetwork.org/campaigns/2022-mvt-phone-banks

State of the Auditor’s Race with Chris Dempsey and Auditor Bump

Wednesday, August 31, 7:00-7:45pm

Suggested donations: $1000 / $500 / $250 / $100 / $50
All are welcome!

RSVP at www.dempseyforauditor.com/events or email finance@dempseyforauditor.com

Democracy Corner

Quentin Palfrey Drops Out of Attorney General Race

We urge you to check a voter’s guide for your other choices. There’s a good one from the League of Women Voters at Vote411.org that lets you compare candidates for a particular race.

Have You Voted in the Primary Yet?

Don’t miss your chance! Early voting has already begun.There are some great progressive candidates running this year who could use your vote. In the 16th Middlesex, Zoe Dzineku brings experience with constituent services (in Senator Kennedy’s office) to the job, and concern for access to mental health care and transportation. In the 18th Middlesex, Tara Hong brings a commitment to transparency in government and constituent services along with support for many progressive issues, including the Fair Share amendment. The three candidates for 18th Middlesex running in the primary are all registered as Democrats, so THE RACE WILL BE DECIDED IN THE PRIMARY.

Mail-in ballots
Drop boxes are in place on Merrimack Street in front of City Hall and at the door to City Hall from JFK Plaza. You may also turn in mail-in ballots at polling places.

Early voting: August 27-September 2
ALL in-person early voting takes place at Senior Center (276 Broadway, corner of Fletcher and Broadway). Polls open at 8am.

Election Day: Tuesday, September 6
Polls are open 7am to 8pm.

Lowell Needs Poll Workers

The City of Lowell employs approximately 225 poll workers per election, including Wardens, Clerks, Inspectors and translators. All poll workers are paid, and subject to very specific rules/guidelines/policies. Early voting begins August 27, so hiring must be done before then. Just a few weeks away.

Poll workers are essential to running an election. If you have the time, please consider signing up. For more information, see https://www.lowellma.gov/317/Election-Workers.

Our Endorsed Candidates for State Representative Welcome Volunteers

Our endorsees in contested races have also been endorsed by Progressive Massachusetts! Below are contacts for our members and endorsed candidates running for local state representative. If you are interested in helping our endorsed candidates running for statewide office, or efforts to elect more reasonable candidates in other states, you will find links to organizations here: https://tinyurl.com/ycxysmhw

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Volunteers for Saturday doorknocking would be greatly appreciated. Choose from two shifts.
- Sign up: https://secure.ngpvan.com/p/SKoqjTVt40SifvNXEKxsmg2
Field captains are needed to be responsible for checking people in for a shift, providing training as necessary, and checking them back out.
- People can contact Victoria at vic@govotezoe.com.

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Volunteers needed for phonebanking and canvassing. Volunteer on the site.
Phonebanking every Wednesday 6-7PM and on your own as comfortable.

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Thursdays, 5-7pm
Canvassing Sundays 3-5pm
Register. https://www.mobilize.us/voteteresaenglish/

Support Progressive Candidates

Progressive candidates get elected when progressive folks do the work to support them. Whether you like phonebanking, texting, or doorknocking, there’s something you can do. Pick a campaign and volunteer. They ALL have environmental chops.

Daily Opportunities in support of Dr. Tami Gouveia
PM Endorsee for Lieutenant Governor
Almost daily through September 6, 10am-8pm (times vary)
Phonebanking every Sunday.
https://www.tamigouveia.com/events/

Canvassing and Phonebanking for Tanisha Sullivan
PM endorsee for Secretary of State
Almost daily through September 6, 5-8pm (times vary)
https://tanishasullivan.com/join-us/

Support Chris Dempsey’s Campaign for Auditor
https://dempseyforauditor.com/

Act on Mass Endorsed Candidates for State Representative in Greater Lowell
https://actonmass.org/endorsements-2022

ActOnMass has endorsed both Vivian Birchall and Teresa English. Act on Mass works for greater transparency in state government. At the link you will find links to the campaigns of endorsed candidates.

State-level Actions

Help Get the Fair Share Amendment Passed – Canvass and/or Phonebank!

This amendment, a priority of Progressive Massachusetts, would add an additional 4% tax on incomes over $1 million, with revenue to be directed to improve our transportation systems (roads, bridges, and public transportation) and our schools. It is estimated that it would raise $2 billion per year. For years, Massachusetts has skimped on its transportation system and the maintenance and upgrades now required amount to billions of dollars. We saw another example of the cost of ignoring that last week when an Orange line train caught fire during rush hour and 200 passengers had to walk to safety from a bridge. Clearly it can’t wait any longer.

The amendment is Question #1 on the ballot this November. But getting it passed means a lot of voter education through door-knocking and phonebanking. If you’d like to help, you can sign up at https://tinyurl.com/bdcwp7xa

Sign the petition for Youth Mental Health Access

https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/sign-a-petition-for-youth-mental-health?source=direct_link&

America has an urgent youth mental health crisis. In 2019, more than one in five high school students seriously considered suicide and one in three reported feeling persistent sadness. The pandemic has only made that worse. An estimated 67,000 children in Massachusetts suffer from major depression. Of those, some 44,000, OVER HALF, do not receive treatment.

Every young person should be able to get the help they need to be safe, happy, and healthy. Sign the petition to urge legislators to take action by passing legislation that expands mental health care in our schools.

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

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

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

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website at solidaritylowell.com

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

June meeting notes:
https://tinyurl.com/2p9ke9h4

June meeting recording:
https://youtu.be/BKXwSQB0UFo

See recordings of past Solidarity Lowell meetings in our YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCohwMIkVdabQdDHsVTLIGsQ

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

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Join at: https://www.progressivemass.com/donate/

Aug

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR AUGUST 24, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Media help needed

We would like to find someone who can help to produce occasional videos for TikTok and local access TV. If you are interested, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com.

Marius Needs Assistance

Lowell Events

Meet and Greet with Dr. Tami Gouveia and Lowell City Councilor Corey Robinson

COMMUNITY EVENT
Sunday August 28, 2022 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM ET
McPherson Park, 984 Bridge St, Lowell, MA 01850
Rally Link: https://secure.ngpvan.com/9MMSKfAi0UuXI19sD8RN3g2

There will be a canvass after the rally. Join the canvass to help elect Tami.

Canvass Link: https://secure.ngpvan.com/341qVPzAZkuU9tiBkD3mLA2

With the Sept. 6th primary election right around the corner, come meet Dr. Tami Gouveia, Democratic candidate for Lt. Governor, on Sunday, August 28 at 1pm in Lowell at McPherson Park on Bridge Street. Tami is proud to have grown up in the neighborhood of Centralville, and is grateful to have Centralville City Councilor Corey Robinson hosting this meet and greet in her home turf. All are welcome!

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our area.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe
Sign up to volunteer, check out their schedule and more.

Next events
Saturday, August 27 at 8am-11am
River Meadow Brook Invasive Removal
Meet at Lincoln St under the Connector

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30pm-6pm with Life Connections’ Jump Start Jobs Program

Other Events

Help Get Out the Vote-When More People Vote, More Progressives Win

Wednesdays, August 24, 31 12pm-3pm
Join a Mass Voter Table phone bank encouraging folks to vote by mail.
https://actionnetwork.org/campaigns/2022-mvt-phone-banks

Write Pro-Choice Postcards to Voters

Wednesday, August 31 10:30 -11:30am
RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/indivisiblelab/event/495675/

Join IndivisibleLAB outside at the visitor center in Lexington to write postcards to pro-choice voters in PA.

Join the movement to elect pro-choice Democrats! The extremist Supreme Court has taken away our freedom and right to abortion. Activate America is writing to voters in swing states who are likely pro-choice with a simple message: your freedom is being curtailed, fight back and vote. For this event, we will be writing for Chris Deluzio (PA 17). Chris is a Pittsburgh-area native, an Iraq War Veteran, and a voting rights attorney. Packets contain everything you need to write 20 postcards; the cost is $10. Please mail postcards as you complete them, and by September 10 at the latest.

Meet us outside at the visitor center in Lexington. Feel free to bring a friend, just stop by to say hello, or pick up postcard packets even if you can’t stay. You’ll find us at the picnic tables in front or the porch in the back (depending on weather). We spread out tables but feel free to bring a mask; we can also create a mask-only table if there is demand.

If you want a drink or snack, check out Via Lago, which is just across Meriam Street. There is parking on the street or in the lot on Meriam Street. There is a water refill station inside the Visitor Center so bring your own water bottle!

(edited)
H/T Lisa Baci

Democracy Corner

For information on groups working to protect democracy across the country
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OQQz8X8oH4xT_KIxKXnqBRW_2HyTfYeQF8S2Hxq-kG0/edit

Don’t miss your chance to vote in the primary

Deadline to Register to Vote (or change your address): August 27
Deadline for Mail-in Ballot Application: August 29
Early voting: August 27-September 2

Applications to vote by mail have been sent out. If you haven’t received yours, or if you moved and haven’t changed your registration, check with the Elections Department at City Hall on the best way to get that done. 978-674-4046

Drop boxes are in place on Merrimack Street in front of City Hall and at the door to City Hall from JFK Plaza. Applications for mail-in ballots may be mailed or dropped in a drop box.

Lowell Needs Poll Workers

Poll workers are essential to running an election. If you have the time, please consider signing up. For more information, see https://www.lowellma.gov/317/Election-Workers.

Our Endorsed Candidates for State Representative Welcome Volunteers

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Volunteers for Saturday doorknocking would be greatly appreciated. Choose from two shifts.
- People can sign up here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/p/SKoqjTVt40SifvNXEKxsmg2
Field captains are needed to be responsible for checking people in for a shift, providing training as necessary, and checking them back out.
- People can contact Victoria at vic@govotezoe.com.

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Volunteers needed for phonebanking and canvassing. Volunteer on the site.
Phonebanking every Wednesday 6-7PM and on your own as comfortable.

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Thursdays, 5-7pm
Canvassing Sundays 3-5pm
Register. https://www.mobilize.us/voteteresaenglish/

Support Progressive Candidates

Canvassing and Phonebanking for Tanisha Sullivan
PM endorsee for Secretary of State
Almost daily through September 6, 5-8pm (times vary)
https://tanishasullivan.com/join-us/

Support Quentin Palfrey’s Campaign for Attorney General
https://www.quentinpalfrey.com/

Support Chris Dempsey’s Campaign for Auditor
https://dempseyforauditor.com/

Act on Mass Endorsed Candidates for State Representative in Greater Lowell
https://actonmass.org/endorsements-2022

Demcast’s Mobilize for Midterms page

https://demcast.com/midterms/
Identifies key races for protecting democracy, maintaining Democratic majority in the House, and adding to Democratic majority in the Senate to end stalemates so that folks can volunteer to help campaigns.

State-level Actions

Help Get the Fair Share Amendment Passed – Canvass and/or Phonebank!

Sign the petition for Youth Mental Health Access

https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/sign-a-petition-for-youth-mental-health?source=direct_link&

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

Aug

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR AUGUST 10, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

SL Canvass Days!

Canvass for our Endorsed 18th Middlesex Candidate, Tara Hong
Saturday August 13, 9:30am
Meet at 704 Middlesex Street (Mony Var Insurance office), right near Pailin Plaza.

Canvass for Progressive Mass Endorsed Candidate for Secretary of State, Tanisha Sullivan
Saturday Aug 13, 2pm
Meet at Dunkin Donuts, 560 Bridge St

Canvass for our Endorsed 16th Middlesex Candidate, Zoe Dzineku
Saturday Aug 20, 11am
Meet at Top Donut, 700 Aiken Ave

Canvass for Progressive Mass Endorsed Candidate for Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Tami Gouveia
Saturday Aug 20, 2pm
Meet at McDonald’s, 66 Plain St

For any of the canvasses
Sign up at: https://forms.gle/TuJ9FLkth2emCDkz5 or just show up. (Signing up helps us plan.)
Questions? contact@solidaritylowell.com

Media help needed

Solidarity Lowell seeks volunteers to update our website, which is on WordPress. We would also like to find someone who can help to produce occasional videos for TikTok and local access TV.

If you are interested in either of these opportunities, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com.

Happy News To Share

From: Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN)
There’s exciting and joyful news to share: two immigrants with whom our community has been sharing support, Marius and Lillian, are expecting a baby together! The baby is due at the end of the Summer. We wish them hearty congratulations! Our network can help Marius and Lillian get ready to welcome their child by donating gift cards to Target and Kohls, which will allow them to purchase a car seat, stroller, clothes, and whatever else they need. If you are generously able to donate a gift card, in any amount, please contact marissa@solidaritylowell.com. You can also donate via the GoFundMe here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius Thank you!

Lowell Events

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our city.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Next events
Saturday, August 13, 8-11am
First Street Invasive Removal
Meet at 1st Street, Duck Island End
https://www.facebook.com/events/744663273463378/

Saturday, August 20, 9am-12pm River Meadow Brook Cleanup
With Lowell Canalwaters Cleaners and LNHP
Meet at 7 Chambers St

Saturday, August 27, 8-11am River Meadow Brook Invasive Removal
Meet at Lincoln St under the Connector

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30-6pm with Life Connections’ Jump Start Jobs Program

Other Events

Meet and Greet with Chris Dempsey

Monday, August 15 7-8pm
On Zoom
RSVP for link: https://actblue.com/donate/081522virtualmg
Meet Progressive Massachusetts’ Endorsed candidate for Auditor.

Write Pro-Choice Postcards to Voters

Wednesday, August 17 from 10:30 -11:30am
In person, Lexington Visitor Center
RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/indivisiblelab/event/488627/

Join IndivisibleLAB outside at the visitor center in Lexington on to write postcards to pro-choice voters in PA.

Join the movement to elect pro-choice Democrats! The extremist Supreme Court has taken away our freedom and right to abortion. Activate America is writing to likely pro-choice voters in swing states with a simple message: your freedom is being curtailed, fight back and vote. We will be writing for Matt Cartwright (PA 08). Packets contain everything you need to write 25 postcards; the cost is $15.

Feel free to bring a friend, just stop by to say hello, or pickup postcard packets even if you can’t stay. You’ll find us at the picnic tables in front or the porch in the back (depending on weather). We spread out tables but feel free to bring a mask; we can also create a mask-only table if there is demand.

Democracy Corner

Don’t miss your chance to vote in the primary

Deadline to Register to Vote: August 27
Deadline for Mail-in Ballot Application: August 29
Early voting: August 27-September 2

Applications to vote by mail have been sent out. If you haven’t received yours, or if you moved and haven’t changed your registration, you can take care of that online at: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr/

Our Endorsed Candidates for State Representative Welcome Volunteers

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Volunteers for Saturday doorknocking would be greatly appreciated. Choose from two shifts.
- People can sign up here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/p/SKoqjTVt40SifvNXEKxsmg2
Field captains are needed to be responsible for checking people in for a shift, providing training as necessary, and checking them back out.
- People can contact Victoria at vic@govotezoe.com.

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Phonebanking every Wednesday.
Volunteers needed for phonebanking and canvassing. Volunteer on the site.

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Thursdays, 5-7pm and Canvassing Sundays 3-5pm
Register. https://www.mobilize.us/voteteresaenglish/

Support Progressive Candidates

Daily Opportunities in support of Dr. Tami Gouveia
PM Endorsee for Lieutenant Governor
Almost daily August 9-September 6, 10am-8pm (times vary)
Phonebanking every Sunday.
https://www.tamigouveia.com/events/

Canvassing and Phonebanking for Tanisha Sullivan
PM endorsee for Secretary of State
Almost daily August 9-September 6, 5-8pm (times vary)
https://tanishasullivan.com/join-us/

Support Quentin Palfrey’s Campaign for Attorney General
https://www.quentinpalfrey.com/

Support Chris Dempsey’s Campaign for Auditor
https://dempseyforauditor.com/

Help Get Out the Vote-When More People Vote, More Progressives Win

Wednesdays, August 10,17, 24, 31 12-3pm
Join a Mass Voter Table phone bank encouraging folks to vote by mail.
https://actionnetwork.org/campaigns/2022-mvt-phone-banks

Phonebank for Act on Mass Endorsed Candidates

Thursdays August 11,18 6-8pm
https://secure.everyaction.com/p/4RaZvzFwfUuqxjOYDB8jxQ2?utm_medium=&emci=deccaf7c-94ff-ec11-b47a-281878b83d8a&emdi=93ca408c-98ff-ec11-b47a-281878b83d8a&ceid=9902154
Help elect candidates who will stand up for transparency on Beacon Hill

PowerHour Sundays: Phonebanks

Sundays, 3pm – 5pm
Virtual Event

If you have only one hour per week to give to strengthening our democracy, make it worthwhile and enjoyable.

Join Lean Left’s Election Power Hour Sundays – anytime between 3 and 5 pm – where we come together to do the work and support one another. These are work sessions where we make calls in our four target states: North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire.

State-Level Actions

Help stop the Ballot Question to Undo the Drivers License Act

As you may have heard, the state Republican party is collecting signatures to force a referendum on the Work and Family Mobility Act (now law!) on November’s ballot. The coalition that helped pass the bill into law is now working to dissuade people from signing at locations where the Republican party is collecting signatures, including the Tewksbury Market Basket (Oakdale Plaza further down Rt 38, not Stadium Plaza on the Lowell line). There is a need for volunteers for various time slots and locations over the next couple of months.

We will pass on more information as it becomes available. Meanwhile, you can contact Harris Gruman, Executive Director, SEIU Massachusetts State Council harris.gruman@seiuma.org or John Drinkwater jdrinkwater@massaflcio.org.

Help Get the Fair Share Amendment Passed–Canvass and/or Phonebank!

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website at solidaritylowell.com

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

June meeting notes:
https://tinyurl.com/2p9ke9h4

June meeting recording:
https://youtu.be/BKXwSQB0UFo

See recordings of past Solidarity Lowell meetings in our YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCohwMIkVdabQdDHsVTLIGsQ

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

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Join at: https://www.progressivemass.com/donate/

Aug

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR AUGUST 2, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Join our RRT Instant Action Crew

Recently, the need for instantaneous responses to calls for action has arisen, things that can’t wait for our next newsletter.

We are looking to build a list of people willing to receive text messages to act PDQ. We realize not everyone will be able to act on all requests at all times, but this will give Solidarity Lowell the ability to respond to progressive needs as quickly as is sometimes necessary. Given the lack of transparency in our legislature, for example, advance warning of a vote sometimes is less than 24 hours. It won’t wait for the next newsletter. There have also been stand-outs organized with less than a week’s notice.

If you’d like to be on alert, especially for matters that affect city or state, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com

Media help needed

Solidarity Lowell seeks volunteers to update our website, which is on WordPress. We would also like to find someone who can help to produce occasional videos for TikTok and local access TV.

If you are interested in either of these opportunities, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com.

Happy News To Share

Lowell Events

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our city.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Next events

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30-6pm with Life Connections’ Jump Start Jobs Program

Volunteer Request: Dwelling House of Hope/Lowell Litter Krewe

Saturdays 7:30am-12pm
RSVP: LowellLitterKrewe@gmail.com 978-201-9916

Dwelling House of Hope provides 400 families every Saturday with a food box at their weekly drive-up pantry, and they need volunteers! If you’re interested in signing up for every Saturday, one Saturday, or even a half-shift, please let LLK know! Volunteers will be asked to sort through pallets of food, pack boxes, and load them into the cars of the families served.

Next City Council Meeting

Tuesday, August 9, 6:30pm, at City Hall and online
Meetings are held in Council Chamber Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. Now on summer schedule of every 2 weeks.

Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows: Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Local Cable Channel 99).

See agenda for details Agenda due to be posted August 5…
Agenda: https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter

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

Support Progressive Candidates

Progressive candidates get elected when progressive folks do the work to support them.

Whether you like phonebanking, texting, or doorknocking, there’s something you can do. Pick a campaign and volunteer. They ALL have environmental chops.

Dr. Tami Gouveia

Progressive Mass endorsee for Lieutenant Governor
Daily Opportunities
https://www.tamigouveia.com/events/

Tanisha Sullivan

Progressive Mass endorsee for Secretary of State
Canvassing and Phonebanking opportunities
https://tanishasullivan.com/join-us/

Quentin Palfrey

Progressive Mass endorsee for Attorney General
https://www.quentinpalfrey.com/

Meet and Greet with Quentin Palfrey
Monday, August 8 7-8pm
On Zoom
RSVP for link: https://secure.ngpvan.com/3EOZScP9ekKUtJRRIrvR4g2

Chris Dempsey

Progressive Mass endorsee for State Auditor
https://dempseyforauditor.com/

Meet and Greet with Chris Dempsey
Monday, August 15 7-8pm
On Zoom
RSVP for link: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/081522virtualmg

Reproductive Rights

The good news is that abortion is still legal in Massachusetts, although there are a few things we could do to make access easier. But we will be affected by the Supreme Court ruling on Roe v. Wade. While there is no instant fix, there are ways we can help stand up to the decision.

A full list of actions you can take may be found at:
https://tinyurl.com/4r568ack

Gun Safety

For those concerned about gun violence, we have compiled a list of organizations working on the problem that you could support and possible actions you can take. We urge you to check them out and see if one fits your values and activism style.

https://tinyurl.com/2xb2ma48

Democracy Corner

Don’t miss your chance to vote in the primary

Deadline to Register to Vote: August 27
Deadline for Mail-in Ballot Application: August 29
Early voting: August 27-September 2

Lowell Needs Poll Workers

Poll workers are essential to running an election. If you have the time, please consider signing up. For more information, see https://www.lowellma.gov/317/Election-Workers.

Our Endorsed Candidates for State Representative Welcome Volunteers

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Volunteers for Saturday doorknocking would be greatly appreciated. Choose from two shifts.
- People can sign up here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/p/SKoqjTVt40SifvNXEKxsmg2
Field captains are needed to be responsible for checking people in for a shift, providing training as necessary, and checking them back out.
- People can contact Victoria at vic@govotezoe.com.

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Volunteers needed for phonebanking and canvassing. Volunteer on the site.

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Wednesdays. Register on the site.

Phonebank for Act on Mass Endorsed Candidates

Thursdays August 4,11,18 6-8pm
https://tinyurl.com/5x4z3snt

Help Get Out the Vote-When More People Vote, More Progressives Win

Wednesdays, August 3,10,17 12-3pm
Join a Mass Voter Table phone bank encouraging folks to vote by mail.
https://actionnetwork.org/campaigns/2022-mvt-phone-banks

State-Level Actions

Help stop the Ballot Question to Undo the Drivers License Act

Help Get the Fair Share Amendment Passed–Canvass and/or Phonebank!

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

Jul

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR JULY 27, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Join our RRT Instant Action Crew

Recently, the need for instantaneous responses to calls for action has arisen, things that can’t wait for our next newsletter.

If you’d like to be on alert, especially for matters that affect city or state, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com

Media help needed

Solidarity Lowell seeks volunteers to update our website, which is on WordPress. We would also like to find someone who can help to produce occasional videos for TikTok and local access TV.

If you are interested in either of these opportunities, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com.

Solidarity Lowell Tabling at Folk Festival

We could use your help! Can you take a two hour shift?
Saturday July 30: 12-2, 2-4, 4-6
Sunday July 31: 12-2, 2-4, 4-6

We especially need help setting up (11-12 BOTH days) and taking down (around 6 both days)

You can check the Festival schedule here and see what won’t conflict with performances you want to see.
https://lowellfolkfestival.org/listen/2022-schedule/

To sign up or for more information, please contact chris@solidaritylowell.com

Happy News To Share

Lowell Events

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our city.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Next events

Friday-Sunday, July 29-31
Lowell Folk Festival
Shifts available all weekend.
Call 617-201-9916 for more information.
T-shirts for volunteers. Size needed.

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30-6pm with Life Connections’ Jump Start Jobs Program

Volunteer Request: Dwelling House of Hope/Lowell Litter Krewe

Saturdays 7:30am-12pm
RSVP: LowellLitterKrewe@gmail.com 978-201-9916

Other Events

Weekly Virtual Phone Bank for Dr. Tami Gouveia
PM Endorsee for Lieutenant Governor

Our grassroots push to the primary is underway and we need you! Please join Team Tami for virtual phonebanking Sunday July 31, 5-7 pm online. Training provided.

To sign up: kimberley@tamigouveia.com

Brady United New Volunteers Info Session

Wednesdays, 5-5:30pm, next happening July 27
Sign up: https://www.mobilize.us/brady/event/462576/

Find out about volunteer opportunities with a national organization working to fight gun violence. And yes, there’s more to be done, in spite of the newly-passed legislation.

Weekly Virtual Trainings for Canvassing for Tanisha Sullivan
PM endorsee for Secretary of State

Fridays, 6-7pm, next happening July 29
Sign up: https://tanishasullivan.com/join-us/

Reproductive Rights

A full list of actions you can take may be found at:
https://tinyurl.com/4r568ack

Gun Safety

https://tinyurl.com/2xb2ma48

Democracy Corner

Don’t miss your chance to vote in the primary

Deadline to Register to Vote: August 27
Deadline for Mail-in Ballot Application: August 29
Early voting: August 27-September 2

Lowell Needs Poll Workers

Poll workers are essential to running an election. If you have the time, please consider signing up. For more information, see https://www.lowellma.gov/317/Election-Workers.

Our endorsed candidates for state representative welcome volunteers

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Volunteers for Saturday doorknocking would be greatly appreciated. Choose from two shifts.
- People can sign up here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/p/SKoqjTVt40SifvNXEKxsmg2
Field captains are needed to be responsible for checking people in for a shift, providing training as necessary, and checking them back out.
- People can contact Victoria at vic@govotezoe.com.

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Volunteers needed for phonebanking and canvassing. Volunteer on the site.

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Wednesdays. Register on the site.

Phonebank for Act on Mass Endorsed Candidates

Thursdays July 28 6-8pm https://tinyurl.com/5x4z3snt

Help elect candidates who will stand up for transparency on Beacon Hill

Zoe Dzineku for State Rep Summer Party Fundraiser
Thursday, July 28, 4-7pm
The Establishment, 75 Princeton Street, North Chelmsford

State-level Actions

And the session-ending legislative asks keep rolling in.
Help stop the Ballot Question to Undo the Drivers License Act

Help Get the Fair Share Amendment Passed–Canvass and/or Phonebank!

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

——————————————–

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website at solidaritylowell.com

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

June meeting notes: https://tinyurl.com/2p9ke9h4

June meeting recording: https://youtu.be/BKXwSQB0UFo

See recordings of past Solidarity Lowell meetings in our YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCohwMIkVdabQdDHsVTLIGsQ

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

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Join at: https://www.progressivemass.com/donate/

Jul

2022

THIS SATURDAY – HELP AN ENDORSED CANDIDATE

Attention: Billerica members especially, but any member with free time to help our endorsed progressive candidate get elected are welcome. Saturday, July 23, starting at 10 am Day of action canvassing for Teresa English, candidate endorsed by Solidarity Lowell and Progress Massachusetts Register: https://www.mobilize.us/voteteresaenglish/

Jul

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR JULY 19, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting – Annual Summer Barbecue!

Sunday July 24, 4-7pm
205 10th St, Lowell
Our annual potluck Summer Barbecue, with endorsed candidates and other guests
https://www.facebook.com/events/448498286790823

Join our Instant Action Crew

Recently, the need for instantaneous responses to calls for action has arisen, things that can’t wait for our next newsletter.

If you’d like to be on alert, especially for matters that affect city or state, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com

Media help needed

Solidarity Lowell seeks volunteers to update our website, which is on WordPress. We would also like to find someone who can help to produce occasional videos for TikTok and local access TV.

If you are interested in either of these opportunities, please email contact@solidaritylowell.com.

Solidarity Lowell Tabling at Folk Festival

We could use your help! Can you take a two hour shift?
Saturday July 30: 12-2, 2-4, 4-6
Sunday July 31: 12-2, 2-4, 4-6

We especially need help setting up (11-12 BOTH days) and taking down (around 6 both days)

You can check the Festival schedule here and see what won’t conflict with performances you want to see.
https://lowellfolkfestival.org/listen/2022-schedule/

For more information, please contact:
Chris Offerman: chris@solidaritylowell.com

Happy News To Share

Lowell Events

350 Mass Lowell Monthly Meeting

Wednesday, July 20, 7pm

Hybrid
– In person at LTC, 246 Market St, Lowell
– Via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89260796845?pwd=T0V2eTVQT3J1U2hXbVBnN0VtcFNoUT09
Meeting ID: 892 6079 6845
Passcode: 615565
Or call 646 876 9923

First timers welcome!

Notes from previous meetings are here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1r5k0MZfiDfsqoVDXPTjPfPPkvheitoTEVRauDQ-aqzo/edit

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our city.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Next events

Saturday, July 23, 9am-12pm
Mack Plaza
With Canalwater Cleaners and LNHP
Meet at Dutton St Traincar

Friday-Sunday, July 29-31
Lowell Folk Festival
Shifts available all weekend.
Call 617-201-9916 for more information.
T-shirts for volunteers. Size needed

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30-6pm with Life Connections’ Jump Start Jobs Program

Volunteer Request: Dwelling House of Hope/Lowell Litter Krewe

Saturdays 7:30am-12pm
RSVP: LowellLitterKrewe@gmail.com 978-201-9916

City Council Meeting

Tuesday, July 26, 6:30pm, at City Hall and online
Meetings are held in Council Chamber Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. Now on summer schedule of every 2 weeks.

Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows: Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Local Cable Channel 99).

Agenda: https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter

Other Events

Weekly Virtual Phone Bank for Dr. Tami Gouveia
PM Endorsee for Lieutenant Governor

Our grassroots push to the primary is underway and we need you! Please join Team Tami for virtual phonebanking, Sundays July 24 and 31, 5-7 pm online. Training provided.

To sign up: kimberley@tamigouveia.com

Brady United New Volunteers Info Session

Wednesdays, 5-5;30pm, next happening July 20, 27
Sign up: https://www.mobilize.us/brady/event/462576/

Find out about volunteer opportunities with a national organization working to fight gun violence. And yes, there’s more to be done, in spite of the newly-passed legislation.

Weekly Virtual Trainings for Canvassing for Tanisha Sullivan – PM endorsee for Secretary of State

Fridays, 6-7pm, next happening July 22,29
Sign up: https://tanishasullivan.com/join-us/

January 6 Hearings Watch Events

Next scheduled July 21, 10am
Find and sign up at: https://www.mobilize.us/jan6hearings/

Reproductive Rights

A full list of actions you can take may be found at: https://tinyurl.com/4r568ack

Gun Safety

https://tinyurl.com/2xb2ma48

Just added to the list of organizations working on the issue:
Brady United https://www.bradyunited.org/
Everytown for Gun Safety https://www.everytown.org/
Fierce Madres (started by parents of Uvalde) https://www.fiercemadres.com/
Giffords (started by violence survivor Gabby Giffords) https://giffords.org/
March for our Lives (started by Parkland survivors) https://marchforourlives.com/

Democracy Corner

Don’t miss your chance to vote in the primary

Deadline to Register to Vote: August 27
Deadline for Mail-in Ballot Application: August 29
Early voting: August 27-September 2

Lowell Needs Poll Workers

Poll workers are essential to running an election. If you have the time, please consider signing up. For more information, see https://www.lowellma.gov/317/Election-Workers.

Our endorsed candidates for state representative welcome volunteers

Below are contacts for our members and endorsed candidates running for local state representative. If you are interested in helping our endorsed candidates running for statewide office, or efforts to elect more reasonable candidates in other states, you will find links to organizations here: https://tinyurl.com/ycxysmhw

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Volunteers for Saturday doorknocking would be greatly appreciated. Choose from two shifts.
People can sign up here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/p/SKoqjTVt40SifvNXEKxsmg2
Field captains are needed to be responsible for checking people in for a shift, providing training as necessary, and checking them back out.
People can contact Kjersten at kjersten@govotezoe.com

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Volunteers needed for phonebanking and canvassing. Volunteer on the site.

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Wednesdays. Register on the site.

Help Get Out the Vote-When More People Vote, More Progressives Win

Wednesdays, 7/20, 7/27 12-3pm
Join a Mass Voter Table phone bank encouraging folks to vote by mail.
https://tinyurl.com/mr2yfv92

Phonebank for Act on Mass Endorsed Candidates

Thursdays July 21, 28 6-8pm
https://tinyurl.com/5x4z3snt

Help elect candidates who will stand up for transparency on Beacon Hill

Zoe Dzineku for State Rep Summer Party Fundraiser
Thursday, July 28, 4-7pm
The Establishment, 75 Princeton Street, North Chelmsford

State-level Actions

And the session-ending legislative asks keep rolling in.

350 MA of Greater Lowell Action Requests on Climate Bill

Important Climate Action: We need a strong climate bill and the session is almost over! See Action steps below.

Our legislature has not yet acted on the climate bill. The legislative session ends 7/31. If we don’t get a climate bill passed by Thursday 7/21, Gov. Baker can veto all or parts of it and there can be no override.

Action steps:

Call your State Rep and Senator. See end of this section for contact info. Tell them we need a strong climate bill – this session! (not two years from now).
Ask them to sign onto this sign-on letter to House and Senate leadership urging climate action. https://tinyurl.com/4k76w2ap (Progressive Mass is also asking us to do this)
Send them a postcard. See Mass Power Forward’s action steps for more info.
https://tinyurl.com/mr6m7w5h
Attend 350 Mass Lowell meeting (see Lowell events above)

Or call your representative and senator about the climate bill.

Script
I’m calling to voice concern that the legislature has still not passed a climate bill this session. Climate advocates are circulating a public sign-on letter for legislators in support of quickly moving a bill. Has the Representative/Senator seen the letter? You can view the form and the letter at bit.ly/maclimate22. Will the Representative/Senator sign on?

If yes: Wonderful, thank you. They can use the sign-on form found in the letter

If not sure/need to get back to you: Please let me know what the legislator says.

If no: Can you explain why not?

What if the legislator says a climate bill is coming soon? It isn’t over until it’s over! If they support passing a climate bill, there’s no reason not to sign!

Stop the MA Legislature from Giving Massive Tax Breaks to the Wealthiest Estates

The Massachusetts tax system hits the wallets of lower-income people harder than high earners, with the bottom 20% of earners paying a higher percentage of their income in state and local taxes than the top 1%. An exception is the Commonwealth’s relatively robust estate tax. The estate tax is one of the main policies we have that is focused on reducing the gaping racial wealth gap in Massachusetts.

Nonetheless, the Massachusetts House voted last week to roll back the estate tax, to the cost of $207 million. This lost revenue means money isn’t available for important investments or for tax relief for the struggling residents of the Commonwealth.

Even worse, the estate tax rollback was designed in a way that disproportionately benefits the largest estates, namely those over $3 million. This would be the biggest increase in the racial wealth gap in decades.

If legislators want to help comparatively smaller estates, they should design their policies to do so, not advance a costly giveaway to the wealthiest estates.

Please write to your state senator to urge them to reject the House’s estate tax proposal via this handy form: https://tinyurl.com/576kced7

Safe Communities Act advanced. Let’s bring it home

The Safe Communities Act would provide immigrants with the stability and certainty they need to confidently seek medical care and other assistance without fear of deportation and family separation. This bill keeps us ALL safe because immigrants will no longer need to fear reporting unsafe living or working conditions, or crimes against people.
The bill has been voted favorably out of committee. There’s only a few weeks left in the legislative session. Please use the editable form at the link to email your legislators and urge them to contact leadership in favor of the Safe Communities Act.
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/tell-lawmakers-pass-the-safe-communities-act-this-session

Help pass the Jail and Prison Construction Moratorium Bill!

The House and the Senate both passed some prison moratorium language as a part of an infrastructure spending bill. But while the language in the House’s version is very close to the original bill, the Senate’s version is much weaker, and would not stop the women’s prison project.

Here’s what you can do:

Call the six Conference Committee members and tell them to put the House version of the Moratorium in the final bill.
Call your own State Rep and Senator and tell them to ask the Infrastructure Bond Bill Committee members to put the House version of the Moratorium in the final bill.
Call and email the SIX Infrastructure Bond Bill Committee members to include the House version of the Jail and Prison Construction Moratorium in the final bill!

Senator Will Brownsberger (617) 722-1280 (*note: you can leave a voicemail with a staff person and/or call the Senator’s cell phone which he provides when you call the main number) William.Brownsberger@masenate.gov
Senator Nick Collins (617) 722-1150 Nick.Collins@masenate.gov
Senator Ryan Fattman (617) 722-1420 Ryan.Fattman@masenate.gov
Representative Danielle Gregoire (617) 722-2140 Danielle.Gregoire@mahouse.gov
Representative Carlos Gonzalez (617) 722-2230 Carlos.Gonzalez@mahouse.gov
Representative David Vieira (617) 722-2230 David.Vieira@mahouse.gov

Sample script
Hello, my name is _______________ and I’m calling to ask you to include the House version of the Jail and Prison Construction Moratorium language in the final version of the Infrastructure Bond Bill. The House language will prevent the new women’s prison project and allow a 5 year pause on new jail and prison construction so we can focus on implementing alternatives and investing in community-led solutions for real safety and wellbeing. Passing the House Moratorium language is what’s best for women, families, and communities. Thank you.

Call and email your own State Rep and Senator and ask them to tell the Infrastructure Bond Bill Committee members to include the House version of the Moratorium in the final bill!

Find your legislators’ contact info here. https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator

Sample script
Hello, my name is _______________ and I’m your constituent. One of my top priorities this session is making sure the strongest possible version of the Jail and Prison Construction Moratorium passes into law. Please let your colleagues on the Infrastructure Bond Bill Conference Committee know to include the House version of the Moratorium language in the final version of the Infrastructure Bond Bill. The Senate Bill has too many loopholes, but the House language will prevent the new women’s prison project and allow a 5 year pause on new jail and prison construction so we can focus on implementing alternatives and investing in community-led solutions for real safety and wellbeing. Passing the House Moratorium language is what’s best for women, families, and communities – so please make sure you do everything you can to make that happen. Thank you!

Help stop the Ballot Question to Undo the Drivers License Act

As you may have heard, the state Republican party is collecting signatures to force a referendum on the Work and Family Mobility Act (now law!) on November’s ballot. The coalition that helped pass the bill into law is now working to dissuade people from signing at locations where the Republican party is collecting signatures, including the Tewksbury Market Basket (not Stadium Plaza on the Lowell line, Oakdale Plaza further down Rt 38). There is a need for volunteers for various time slots and locations over the next couple of months.

We will pass on more information as it becomes available. Meanwhile, you can contact Harris Gruman, Executive Director, SEIU Massachusetts State Council (harris.gruman@seiuma.org) or John Drinkwater (jdrinkwater@massaflcio.org)

Help Get the Fair Share Amendment Passed – Canvass!

The amendment is Question #1 on the ballot this November. But getting it passed means a lot of door-knocking and voter education. If you’d like to help, you can sign up at: https://tinyurl.com/38hsc9ss

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

Jun

2022

This Sunday – Rally for the Right to Choose and Updated SL Meeting Time!

Reproductive Rights Rally Sunday at 5pm

Rally for the Right to Choose

Sunday June 26, 5-6 pm
Lowell City Hall, 375 Merrimack St.
https://www.facebook.com/events/570874981070650/
Organized by: Lowell Democratic City Committee, Lowell Community Health Center, and others
Co-sponsored by: Solidarity Lowell

Outraged by today’s SCOTUS decision in Dobbs that overturned Roe v. Wade? Join us at Lowell City Hall in front of the Ladd-Whitney Monument on Sunday, June 26 at 5:00 pm as we rally for the right to choose. Bring pro-choice/pro-abortion signs if you have them.

Solidarity Lowell General Meeting Sunday at 6:30pm

SL General Meeting new start time: 6:30pm

Sunday June 26, 6:30-8 pm
Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83542980692?pwd=LzMxZGN2UEVJdlJmeE9Ub1Z4UU42Zz09

To accommodate the rally in response to the Supreme Court decision, the SL General Meeting will be pushed back an hour. Please come to the rally, then join us online for this important meeting! We will be hearing from three State Representative candidates who are seeking endorsement from Solidarity Lowell and Progressive Massachusetts.

Zoe Dzineku for 16th Middlesex (Lowell)
Tara Hong for 18th Middlesex (Lowell)
Teresa English for 22nd Middlesex (Billerica)

Reminder: This is in preparation for voting members receiving a ballot on their endorsement next week.

Jun

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR JUNE 21, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

THIS SUNDAY Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday June 26 at 5:30pm
Topic/Speakers: Candidates to be considered for endorsement

Assistance urgently needed for asylum-seeker Marius recovering from surgery

From: Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN)

Asylum-Seeker Marius has recovered from his recent surgery to address ongoing issues related to the violence he fled from in Togo and Guinea-Bissau. He has finally been able to return to work. MVISN needs to extend ongoing assistance as he re-establishes himself. Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Please donate to his GoFundMe here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

You can also donate via:
CashApp – $gollygee17
Venmo – @owlnerd
Checks are also accepted, please email Marissa (marissa@solidaritylowell.com) for the address. Please put “Marius” in the notes.

Lowell Events

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our city.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Next events

Saturday June 25 | 9am-12pm, Abandoned Camp Cleanout, Ages 14+
Meet at 1125 Pawtucket Boulevard
https://www.facebook.com/events/585240472835621

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30-6pm with Life Connections
Call/text for details: 617-201-9916

Merrimack Valley Project “House Party” fundraiser/celebration

Thursday, June 23, 6:30 PM
Gary’s Restaurant, 26 Andover St, Lowell

Celebrate the past year, esp. Drivers’ Licenses Bill and Wheels of Hope.

ARPA Public Listening Sessions

Take the Survey and let your thoughts be known
www.lowellma.gov/ARPA
Deadline to submit: June 30, 2022

Information gathered from the past public listening sessions and the survey will help guide City administration on how to use ARPA funding, providing long-lasting benefits to the residents of Lowell.

Ranked Choice Voting Supporter Summit: Carry the MA Movement!

Saturday, June 25, 2022 9:45 AM – 2:00 PM ET
Harvey Wheeler Community Center, 1276 Main St, Concord, MA 01742 (in person)
RSVP: https://secure.everyaction.com/Lm6-DWamZEecgNiZ82RBKw2

This June, we are carrying forward momentum from the exciting town votes happening in Concord, Northampton, and many more around Massachusetts. We are the ones building momentum in MA around the issue we’ve all come to care about: making our democracy stronger through Ranked Choice Voting. Voter Choice Massachusetts invites all RCV supporters around the state to join us for progress updates, networking, tools, training, and the inspiration to keep our shared cause moving forward!

Keynote Speaker:
Danielle Allen, Harvard Professor and former candidate for MA Governor
Plus, we’ll welcome the MA Secretary of State Candidates

Attendance is free to all; we recommend bringing a bag lunch and laptop for breakout sessions. Event is indoors so vaccinations/boosters are required.

MVP Text Bank Training to Support Fair Share Amendment

Monday, June 27, 5-5:45 PM
Via Zoom (link to be supplied to those who register)
To register, email Trevor Fauci (TrevorLaFauciMVP@gmail.com)

With the recent good news about the Uber/Lyft ballot question being removed from the ballot, MVP and their Economic Justice team will be moving full-steam ahead on working to engage voters on the Fair Share Amendment prior to this November’s election. They have had members trained in phone banking and would like to also offer the opportunity for folks to become trained in text banking as well. Text banking has become a popular outreach method in recent years because:

1. You don’t need your actual phone and can use an app on your laptop or tablet
2. You can quickly send initial messages (1-2 seconds per message with batches coming in the 100s)
3. You can bookmark the app page and return periodically at times that work for you to respond to messages and send new ones
4. You can send 1 batch or 10, it’s simply a matter of what you are most comfortable with and how inspired you’re feeling on any given day!

With those benefits in mind, MVP is offering a training, hosted by Massachusetts Voter Table, with an opportunity to start texting immediately after. We invite you all along with members of your faith, labor, and community organizations to join us as we kick off this exciting, accessible new part of our 2022 community engagement!

Thank you all,
The MVP Voter Engagement Team

h/t Lisa Arnold

Other Events

January 6 Hearings Watch Events

Find and sign up at: https://www.mobilize.us/jan6hearings/

Disarm Hate

Mondays and Fridays, 3-5pm, next happening June 24
Phone and textbank to get gun reform legislation passed
Sign up: https://www.mobilize.us/brady/event/462576/

Democracy Corner

Our members running for office welcome volunteers:

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Central Votes Zoe Fundraiser: Thursday, June 23, 4-7pm, East End Social Club (15 W 4th St, Centralville)
Volunteers for Saturday doorknocking would be greatly appreciated. .Choose from two shifts. People can sign up here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/p/SKoqjTVt40SifvNXEKxsmg2
Field captains are needed to be responsible for checking people in for a shift, providing training as necessary, and checking them back out. People can contact Kjersten at kjersten@govotezoe.com.

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Volunteer for phonebanking, doorknocking, and more on the site.

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Wednesdays. Register on the site.

Help Get Progressive Candidates Elected

Progressive Massachusetts proudly endorses Sonia Chang-Diaz, Governor (78% of Progressive Mass member vote); Dr. Tami Gouveia, Lieutenant Governor (78% of PM member vote); Tanisha Sullivan for Secretary of the Commonwealth (93% of PM member vote), Quentin Palfrey for Attorney General (62% of PM member vote), and Chris Dempsey for State Auditor (78% of PM member vote).

Progressive candidates have qualified and the state Convention has selected them to appear in the Primary. Now we start the joyous work of helping them win the Primary. All campaigns are currently looking for people to help.

Learn more about Sonia Chang-Diaz at https://www.soniachangdiaz.com/meet-sonia
Volunteer to help Sonia’s campaign at https://www.soniachangdiaz.com/volunteer

Learn more about Dr. Tami Gouveia at https://www.tamigouveia.com/meet-tami/
Volunteer to help Tami’s campaign at https://www.tamigouveia.com/volunteer/

Learn more about Tanisha Sullivan at https://www.tanishasullivan.com/
Volunteer to help Tanisha’s campaign at http://tanisha4ma.us/join
Organizer: nate@tanishasullivan.com

Learn more about Quentin Palfrey at https://www.quentinpalfrey.com/
Volunteer with the campaign at: https://www.quentinpalfrey.com/get-involved
Organizer: signatures@quentinpalfrey.com

Learn more about Chris Dempsey at https://dempseyforauditor.com/.
Volunteer to help the campaign at: https://dempseyforauditor.com/volunteer/
Signatures Contact: matthew@dempseyforauditor.com

Help Get Out the Vote-When More People Vote, More Progressives Win

Wednesdays, June 22, 29 12-3pm
Join a Mass Voter Table phone bank encouraging folks to vote by mail.
https://tinyurl.com/mr2yfv92

State-Level Actions

Progressive Mass Priority Asks on the state budget

The Legislative session will be over in just under six weeks, but there’s one key deadline that’s earlier than that: the state budget deadline, which is just around the corner on June 30.

The Legislature doesn’t always meet that deadline (pushing things into July), but it still exists. And that means action has to happen quick.

Here are three key areas to contact your legislators on:

*Equitable Approaches in Public Safety: The Senate budget included language to increase funding to $3.5M for the Equitable Approaches to Public Safety (EAPS) program (line item 4512-2020). This language and funding will allow municipalities to create community-based alternative crisis response models centered around social and emotional health professionals like social workers and peer support specialists.

*Early Education and Child Care: The House and Senate both included new funding for early education and child care in their budgets. They increased funding in different ways, but, as the Common Start Coalition has argued, if the priorities of both chambers make it into the final budget, it would represent a substantial step toward implementing the coalition’s full vision of a high-quality early education and childcare system that is affordable and accessible for all families.

*No Cost Calls: Both the House and Senate budgets included language to provide persons who are incarcerated with access to free phone calls or similar forms of communication. It is unconscionable that prisons and jails have been price-gouging incarcerated individuals and their families for years, and it’s important that this provision is a part of the final budget.

Please contact your state legislators in support of these three budget priorities.
https://tinyurl.com/2p8cwmfx

Take action to support the Safe Communities Act (SCA)

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/june-1st-deadline-for-committee-action-on-safe-communities/

The deadline on the SCA has been extended to June 24. The link will take you to an editable email to send to the members of the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security, urging them to vote the bill favorably out of committee so that it can be brought to a vote in the full legislature.

Will you take two minutes to email the Joint Committee advocating for a positive report?

On June 24th, the Committee must decide if the Safe Communities Act should advance to the Ways and Means Committee, which is the next step in the legislative process. They gave the bill a positive report last session, and we need your help to ensure that happens again.

The Safe Communities Act will communicate loud and clear that in Massachusetts, everyone can seek help, protection and treatment without fear of deportation. This is a message that immigrant communities desperately need to hear. It is past time for the legislature to take action on this crucial piece of legislation – will you urge the Committee to act on or before June 24th?

Once you’ve sent an email to Committee members, please amplify your voice by sharing this action with five people in Massachusetts.

Help Establish Indigenous Peoples Day

From the MA Indigenous Legislative Agenda:
On Juneteenth, we celebrated the end of slavery in this country. Let’s take a few minutes to help end the practice of celebrating the father of slave trading in the Americas, Christopher Columbus, at least in Massachusetts, where we have the chance to pass S.2027 / H.3191 An Act Establishing an Indigenous Peoples Day. The bill has received tremendous support. But it must be voted favorably out of committee no later than June 30th.You can help make that happen! Please Act Now to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in MA.

Call or email the Co-chairs of the Joint Committee on State Administration, Rep. Tony Cabral and Sen. Marc Pacheco today. Ask them to hold a vote before the June 30 deadline, and favorably pass this bill out of their Committee, so the Legislature can vote on it this year:

A phone call to Rep. Tony Cabral, could make all the difference. His phone number is (617) 722-2017 or email him at Antonio.Cabral@mahouse.gov .

If you have time, please also call his co-chair, Sen. Marc Pacheco, at (617)722-1551 or email him at: Marc.Pacheco@masenate.gov.

Urge Rep. Cabral and Sen. Pacheco to allow the Indigenous Peoples Day bill to move forward with a positive vote from the Joint Committee on State Administration today!

The law, if passed, will replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in MA. Changing the second Monday in October to Indigenous Peoples Day would acknowledge the harmful impact of celebrating Columbus as a hero. Historical accounts prove that wherever he went, Columbus and his men murdered and enslaved Indigenous People. The repercussions continue to be keenly felt even now in Massachusetts.

Indigenous Peoples Day would replace something negative with something positive – an increased awareness of Indigenous Peoples and a celebration of Indigenous resilience and survival, in Massachusetts and throughout the Americas. A victory for Indigenous People would be a victory for all people of color in Massachusetts, who still experience the racism and violence that was first visited upon the Indigenous People of the Americas by Columbus and his crew.

You don’t need to be an expert on this bill. Just speak from your heart and encourage Rep. Cabral and Sen. Pacheco to allow this long stalled racial justice bill to move forward.

We want to honor the Native people of this land rather than honoring the slave trader Columbus in our public schools, and in our cities and towns.

[NOTE; It would have been far better if the entire Indigenous Agenda had made the cut this time around. Many more consequential items did not make it. But this bill at least still has a chance of passing.]

h/t David Detnold

Our State Legislators’ Info

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

National Actions

Support the Stop Overdraft Profiteering Act

Thank Elizabeth Warren for introducing and Ed Markey for co-sponsoring the bill. Ask your rep to co-sponsor the House version.
https://tinyurl.com/4ka5wv46

The bill stops overdraft abuses by:

Limiting the number of overdraft fees a consumer may be charged in a year
Prohibiting charging a non-sufficient fund fee for any debit card transaction
Prohibiting automatic enrollment in overdraft protection plans when opening an account
Banning the reporting of negative information related to overdraft coverage to any consumer credit reporting agency

Petition to Biden Administration to Protect Workers Reporting Unsafe Conditions

https://tinyurl.com/2nh7fr8v

Unsafe working conditions and labor abuses are equal-opportunity threats to workers. They don’t care about a worker’s immigration status. But some workers are vulnerable to intimidation and retaliation because of their status and may be afraid to report or testify, putting all workers at risk. This petition from Jobs with Justice asks that workers be protected in those circumstances.

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website at solidaritylowell.com

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

May meeting notes:
https://tinyurl.com/ycyndtvd

May meeting recording:
https://youtu.be/76Z21IW3D2U

See recordings of past Solidarity Lowell meetings in our YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCohwMIkVdabQdDHsVTLIGsQ

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

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Join at: https://www.progressivemass.com/donate/

Jun

2022

RAPID RESPONSE TEAM ACTION LIST FOR JUNE 14, 2022

Solidarity Lowell Events and Actions

Next Solidarity Lowell General Meeting

Sunday June 26 at 5:30pm
Topic: To Be Determined

Assistance urgently needed for asylum-seeker Marius recovering from surgery

From: Merrimack Valley Interfaith Sanctuary Network (MVISN)

Asylum-Seeker Marius had surgery recently to address ongoing issues related to the violence he fled from in Togo and Guinea-Bissau. MVISN needs to extend ongoing assistance. Any amount will be gratefully accepted. Please donate to his GoFundMe here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/47gvz-marius

Lowell Events

City Council Meeting – TONIGHT!

Tuesday, June 14, 6:30pm, at City Hall and online
Meetings are held in Council Chamber Tuesdays at 6:30pm with public welcome. Attend in person or by using remote participation as follows: Members of the public may view the meeting via LTC.Org (Online; Live Streaming; Or Local Cable Channel 99).

See agenda for details.
Agenda: https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06142022-2368?html=true

This week’s meeting includes a motion to declare that “racism leads to crisis”. This is a weak substitute for the motion rejected in 2020 that would have declared racism a public health crisis. The motion also calls for the city to address four specific areas. The DEI Consortium issued a letter in 2020 that called for the public health crisis wording and for specific remedies. In spite of a public listening session, and the DEI Consortium letter, the new motion does not address any of the points raised in 2020. DEI Consortium urges folks to show up at the City Council meeting to support their initiative and even to speak.

To speak, you must register by 4 pm the day of the meeting (today). Those wishing to speak regarding a specific agenda item must register to speak In advance of the meeting by sending an email to the City Clerk indicating the agenda Item (the item is Motion 10.12) and a phone number to call so that you may be issued a Zoom link to the meeting. Email Address Is MGEARY@LOWELLMA.GOV. If you have no access to email you may contact the City Clerk at 978-674-4161.

Free Soil Arts 2nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration

Sunday, June 19, 11am-4pm
Market Street
https://www.facebook.com/events/768275544071500
Gather on Market Street in downtown Lowell, MA to highlight Lowell’s Black history and Black artists—featuring a mainstage of musicians and performers, poetry readings at local businesses, walking Black History tours, food, and Black artisan vendors.

Juneteenth & Father’s Day Community Block Party

Sunday, June 19, 5-10pm
Green Space @UTEC, 35 Warren St., Lowell
Organized by the Afro-American Community Collaborative
https://aacommunitycollab.com/#block

Lowell Litter Krewe

The LLK is in full swing helping to beautify our city.
To connect with them: https://linktr.ee/lowelllitterkrewe

Next events

Thursday, June 16| 4-6pm Muldoon Park Cleanup
Ahead of the Juneteenth Celebration
With Black Lowell Coalition
Meet at 5 Billerica Street
https://www.facebook.com/events/427212188871941

Saturday, June 18 | 9am-12pm, Canalwaters Cleaners and LNHP
Meet at TBD

Saturday June 25 | 9am-12pm, Abandoned Camp Cleanout, Ages 14+
Meet at 1125 Pawtucket Boulevard
https://www.facebook.com/events/585240472835621

Cleanups every Thursday 3:30-6pm with Life Connections
Call/text for details: 617-201-9916

Merrimack Valley Project “House Party” fundraiser/celebration

Thursday, June 23, 6:30 PM
Gary’s Restaurant, 26 Andover St,.in Lowell

Celebrate the past year, esp. Drivers’ Licenses Bill and Wheels of Hope.

ARPA Public Listening Sessions

Take the Survey and let your thoughts be known
www.lowellma.gov/ARPA
Deadline to submit: June 30, 2022

Information gathered from the past public listening sessions and the survey will help guide City administration on how to use ARPA funding, providing long-lasting benefits to the residents of Lowell.

Other Events

January 6 Hearings Watch Events

Beginning Thursday, June 9
Find and sign up at: https://www.mobilize.us/jan6hearings/

Disarm Hate

Mondays and Fridays, 3-5pm, next happening June 10
Phone and textbank to get gun reform legislation passed
Sign up: https://www.mobilize.us/brady/event/462576/

Mass Poor People’s & Low-Wage Workers’ Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls

Saturday, June 18, Washington DC

The June 18, 2022 Mass Poor People’s and Low-Wage Workers’ Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls will be a generationally transformative and disruptive gathering of poor and low-wealth people, state leaders, faith communities, moral allies, unions and partnering organizations.

It is NOT just a day of action. It is a declaration of an ongoing, committed moral movement to 1) Shift the moral narrative; 2) Build power; and 3) Make real policies to fully address poverty and low wealth from the bottom up.

If enough people sign up in this area there could be a bus (cost: $150 round trip). If not enough people sign up from this area, there WILL be a bus from Boston, with a possibility of carpooling there.

Click here: https://tinyurl.com/33bx5pu7

h/t member Stephen Malagodi for this submission

Indivisible-RISE Monthly Meeting: Film Screening

Tuesday, June 21, 7-8:15 pm
Register to join us on Zoom: https://tinyurl.com/mr3nd2u8

Film screening: “Suppressed and Sabotaged: The Fight To Vote” (2022) by Robert Greenwald (Director of Outfoxed, Walmart: The High Cost of Low Price, and Making A Killing: Guns Greed and the NRA). It is a powerful 44-minute documentary about the growing threat of voter suppression and election sabotage to our 2022 midterm elections.

Indivisible-RISE has a unique opportunity through Common Cause to show this film at our June 21, 2022 meeting, and we hope you will join us. In 2021, 19 states passed 34 new voter laws following the Big Lie of the 2020 election. The film focuses on this recent wave of voter suppression and subversion laws being enacted in states, and how the 2018 Georgia gubernatorial race between Stacey Abrams and Brian Kemp provides a blueprint for today’s voter suppression laws across the country. The film includes perspectives from voters in swing states that highlight how these new laws will affect their constitutional right to vote.

We’ll follow the film with a brief discussion and a description of ways that we can help to fight voter suppression.

Democracy Corner

Our members running for office welcome volunteers:

Zoe Dzineku, Lowell 16th Middlesex
https://www.govotezoe.com/

Central Votes Zoe Fundraiser
Thursday, June 23, 4-7pm, East End Social Club (15 W 4th St, Centralville)

Tara Hong, Lowell 18th Middlesex
https://www.tarahong.com/

Teresa English, Billerica
https://www.voteteresaenglish.org/

Phonebanking Mondays and Wednesdays. Register on the site.

Help Get Progressive Candidates Elected

Learn more about Sonia Chang-Diaz at https://www.soniachangdiaz.com/meet-sonia
Volunteer to help Sonia’s campaign at https://www.soniachangdiaz.com/volunteer

Learn more about Dr. Tami Gouveia at https://www.tamigouveia.com/meet-tami/
Volunteer to help Tami’s campaign at https://www.tamigouveia.com/volunteer/

Learn more about Tanisha Sullivan at https://www.tanishasullivan.com/
Volunteer to help Tanisha’s campaign at http://tanisha4ma.us/join
Organizer: nate@tanishasullivan.com

Learn more about Quentin Palfrey at https://www.quentinpalfrey.com/
Volunteer with the campaign at: https://www.quentinpalfrey.com/get-involved
Organizer: signatures@quentinpalfrey.com

Learn more about Chris Dempsey at https://dempseyforauditor.com/.
Volunteer to help the campaign at: https://dempseyforauditor.com/volunteer/
Signatures Contact: matthew@dempseyforauditor.com

National contests affect everyone

There are groups across the country working to elect more progressive candidates. Find one that lets you do something you can do to make a difference. There are more of us than them. If we all do our one little thing, change CAN come.

Turn Purple 2 Blue
www.TurnPurple2Blue.org
Stop the rollback of rights. Help fight for a wider margin in both houses of Congress so that legislation will pass. Find out how you can help more progressive candidates succeed in other states.

Swing Blue Alliance (formerly Swing Left)
Swingbluealliance.org
Largest organization in MA working on both state and national elections. Help elect more Democrats to Congress. Pick how you want to work and which race(s) you want to work on.

Field Team 6
https://www.fieldteam6.org/
This California-based group works to register more Democrats all across the country. When more Democrats vote, Democrats win.

State-Level Actions

350MA Legislative Update & Help Needed

In March, the House passed a bill to promote the development of offshore wind energy. In April, the Senate passed a broader climate bill (S.2819) that has some good elements—although not all we hoped for. The final bill is expected no later than the week of July 11, and 350MA needs your help. Contact your state representative and ask them for a strong bill that addresses buildings, transportation, the electric grid, and social justice. See here for specific top priorities identified by 350 Mass and many coalition partners: https://tinyurl.com/3hwn29ch

Here’s how to contact your rep:

Easy: Send an email (sample text is here: https://tinyurl.com/e9226br8 ) and cc our Political Director Cabell Eames, Cabell@betterfutureproject.org

Better: Call and follow up with an email (sample script is here: https://tinyurl.com/e9226br8 )

Best: Call to schedule a live meeting and make the same request. Even better, invite others to join you! Then email Cabell (Cabell@betterfutureproject.org) to tell us how it went, since she’s meeting regularly with legislators on our behalf.

Take action for Housing Equity

https://www.homesforallmass.org/

Contact your legislators in support of bills that would add tenant and homeowner protections like eviction sealing and the right to representation in housing court. The bills can be added to the state budget now under consideration, as amendments. At the site, hit the Take Action button. You will find pre-written emails you can edit to make your own and scripts for phone calls.

Take action to support the Safe Communities Act (SCA)

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/engage-your-legislators-on-the-safe-communities-act/

Support Right to Counsel Bills (new deadline)

The Right to Counsel bills (H. 1436 and S. 874) have been extended until June 15, 2022, by which time the Housing Committee must issue a final report. This is good news! The Committee is closely reviewing the bills. The Massachusetts Right to Counsel Coalition is grateful to lead sponsors Senator DiDomenico, Rep Dave Rogers, and Rep Day for their work to advance the bills.

Please keep up your advocacy efforts with your Representatives and Senators and members of the Housing Committee*, especially Chair Arciero and Chair Keenan. It is making a difference!

*Membership: https://malegislature.gov/Committees/Detail/J28. We especially encourage our members from Chelmsford to reach out to Senator Michael Barrett, who is on the committee. No other Lowell area legislators are on the committee, but it wouldn’t hurt to write the other members of the committee, who, by dint of their being on the committee, represent all Massachusetts residents, not just their constituents.

Sample script
Dear Legislator:
I’m writing you because [I am your constituent, from [town] and] you are serving on a committee considering a bill that I believe is important to the future of Massachusetts, The Right to Counsel bill H.1436/S.874] seeks to ensure that those facing eviction have counsel when they go to court. Research shows that 90% of landlords have counsel when they head to court; very few tenants do. And tenants who have legal representation have a much better chance of avoiding eviction and all the consequences that come with it. You can read more about the consequences at https://www.aclu.org/report/no-eviction-without-representation?redirect=evictionbrief.
The brief also references a report on the financial benefits to the state of providing legal representation.

For more background on the issue:
https://www.massrtc.org/fact-sheets-and-resources.html .

With affordable housing so scarce in our state, eviction is literally life-threatening.

I urge you to vote the bills favorably out of committee before the June 15 deadline.

Thank you for your consideration.
[Your name, address, phone number]

Support the Fair Share Amendment

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

More info: https://tinyurl.com/3s25dw24

Pledge to vote for the Amendment in November:
https://raiseupma.us/solidaritylowell

Our State Legislators’ Info

Rep. Rady Mom Rady.Mom@mahouse.gov 617-722-2460
Rep. Colleen Garry Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov 617-722-2380
Rep. Tram Nguyen tram.nguyen@mahouse.gov 617-722-2425
Sen. Edward Kennedy edward.kennedy@masenate.gov 617-722-1630
Sen. Michael Barrett Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov 617-722-1572
Sen. Jamie Eldridge James.Eldridge@masenate.gov 617-722-1120
Sen. Barry Finegold Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov 617-722-1612
(… or find yours here: https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator)

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

National Actions

Petition to Biden Administration to Protect Workers Reporting Unsafe Conditions

https://tinyurl.com/2nh7fr8v

Our Federal Legislators’ Info

Senator Elizabeth Warren: 617-565-3170
309 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.warren.senate.gov/contact/shareyouropinion

Senator Edward Markey: 617-565-8519
255 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
https://www.markey.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion

Representative Lori Trahan: 978-459-0101 / 202-225-3411
https://trahan.house.gov/contact/write-your-rep.htm

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

Visit the Solidarity Lowell website at solidaritylowell.com

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

May meeting notes:
https://tinyurl.com/ycyndtvd

May meeting recording:
https://youtu.be/76Z21IW3D2U

See recordings of past Solidarity Lowell meetings in our YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCohwMIkVdabQdDHsVTLIGsQ

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

Solidarity Lowell is a chapter of Progressive Massachusetts. Join at: https://www.progressivemass.com/donate/