“I commit to speaking up and speaking out, even when I am not directly impacted, for there is no such thing as neutrality in the quest for equity, justice, and inclusion.” (Excerpt from The Winters Group’s Commitment to Live Inclusively)
In this week’s edition of The Buzz, we share an abridged version of a Weekly Activism checklist, created by Jennifer Hofmann, that provides specific tactics for positive change. We get it—watching the news these days can be draining, and even elicit feelings of helplessness. We are hopeful that this post will inspire you to identify how you can support change in your own sphere of influence, in your own way.
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Act on your beliefs and values
I believe I can make a difference.
Create an activism plan.
Get the worksheet: Plan your activism strategy with my Action Worksheet (or Kelly Wooten’s pocket-sized version). Print one to get started.
Get Stance: This app makes calling elected officials easier and less stressful.
I believe in equal rights for all Americans.
Action: Oppose church/state conflict in 45’s new executive order.
Contact: White House via phone or email.
Script: If religious organizations are allowed to endorse and donate to political candidates, they must give up their tax-exempt status and pay taxes like everyone else. This executive order is bad for America and violates our Constitution.
Action: Advocate for the dignity of all Americans.
Write: Sec. Ben Carson, HUD, 451 7th Street SW, Washington, DC 20410.
Script: I am a tax-paying citizen who believes that all people deserve a home that is safe from invasion, elements, and pests, a home with heat and cooling, hot water, clean drinking water, and adequate space to gather, sleep, and prepare food. I am happy to see my tax dollar used to support cozy homes for Americans in need. Ben Carson’s shameful views offend me deeply.
I believe in quality education for America’s youth.
Action: Support healthy meals in schools.
Write: Sec. Sonny Perdue 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20250.
Script: As a parent (or tax-paying community member), I oppose your plan to make school lunches less healthy. Your priority should be protecting the health of America’s youngest citizens, not the interests of corporate agriculture.
I believe in quality, affordable healthcare for all Americans.
Action: Speak up if your Rep voted for the AHCA bill.
Read: See how your rep voted here.
Call: Your one representative (lookup or leave message).
Script: Hi. I’m a constituent from _ZIP_ and noticed that _NAME_ voted to take away healthcare from 24 million Americans. This is wrong. _NAME’s_ choice on this issue will influence my next vote.
Action: Advocate for the kind of healthcare you want.
Call: Your two senators (lookup or leave message).
Script: Hi. I’m a constituent from _ZIP_ and am aware the Senate will soon be editing the AHCA bill. I am happy for my tax dollar to support healthcare for myself and all Americans. Specifically, I want… (list). Thank you.
I believe in creating a healthy planet for future generations.
Action: Make a statement to the EPA by May 15, 2017.
The EPA is soliciting public comment on repealing EPA regulations.
Visit: Regulations.gov. Click the dark blue “Comment Now!” button, upper right.
Script: Share why you support protections for clean air, soil, and water.
I believe in being a good citizen of the world.
Action: Support advocacy for asylum seekers.
US border agents are illegally turning away asylum seekers at the border. Help advocate for their legal rights.
Donate: To Human Rights First which advocates for the most vulnerable.
Read: HRF’s recent report on the treatment of asylum seekers.
