Two weeks ago, we hosted a Virtual Learning Lab that explored leadership courage and activism, particularly during polarizing times. We shared strategies for leaders to consider when taking a stand for inclusion, and tactics for engaging in self-care. One of the resonating questions during the lab was around specific actions that one can engage in to “take a stand” at the individual level.
What can I do to stand for inclusion? What can I do that can have an impact? How can I make my voice heard?
Perhaps you have asked yourself similar questions. This week, we are sharing an Action Checklist, developed by Jenifer Hoffman, that outlines specific actions that you can take to stand for inclusion. While the list certainly isn’t all-encompassing, we believe it is a start in speaking up and out.
[dropshadowbox align=”center” effect=”lifted-both” width=”600px” height=”” background_color=”#04266e” border_width=”1″ border_color=”#dddddd” rounded_corners=”false” inside_shadow=”false” outside_shadow=”false” ]Action Checklist for Americans of Conscience[/dropshadowbox]
Act on your beliefs and values
I believe I can make a difference.
Create an activism plan.
Print out: the Americans of Conscience Action Worksheet and make a plan. Or use this adorable pocket version by the amazing Kelly Wooten.
Fight fake news.
Email or phone your public or academic library (lookup) (lookup).
Script: (Ask for library director): Hi, I’m a library patron and am concerned about the spread of fake news. Can you tell me if the library offers resources or programs to help _people/students_ judge the credibility of online information?
I believe in equal rights for all Americans.
Protect Constitutional freedoms at the state level.
With Jeff Sessions as US Attorney General, Americans’ basic rights may be at risk (source).
Call: Both your state legislators (lookup).
Script: Hi! I am a constituent from ZIP. I am concerned about the expense and ineffectiveness of mandatory minimum sentencing in our state. I am asking for you to propose legislation to repeal this ineffective, often discriminatory practice. Thank you.
Support a new immigrant.
A thorough New York Times article presents ideas for making a difference. Choose one and take the next step.
Advocate for a filibuster for the Supreme Court vote.
Call: Both your senators (lookup).
Script: Hi! I’m a constituent from _ZIP_ calling to express my opposition to Judge Gorsuch for the Supreme Court. He doesn’t represent the majority of Americans’ views, and Republican senators haven’t earned this stolen seat. I am asking _name_ to filibuster the vote.
Get Disney CEO to speak out against discrimination.
Email: Disney CEO, Robert Iger robert.a.iger@disney.com
Script: Copy and paste, “Disney’s brand is as American as mom and apple pie. That’s why I’m writing as a longtime fan to ask you to make a public statement against djt’s Muslim ban in any form. America’s strength is our diversity. Please speak out publicly against discrimination. Jasmine and Aladdin are counting on you.”
Or tweet him: @disney #BobIger As a key advisor to djt, please speak out against a Muslim ban in any form. #WallofUs #CEOsAgainstTheBan
(source)
I support the rights and sovereignty of indigenous people.
Support the Constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Click: ACLU link here for a way to support Standing Rock.
This week: Call ND governor and demand he reject limits on free speech.
I believe in a government with qualified, trustworthy leadership.
Support a thorough investigation of Flynn’s Russia ties.
Call: Both of your senators. (lookup)
Script: Hi! I’m calling from _ZIP_. I’d like to know if _name_ supports an independent investigation into Gen. Flynn’s conduct with Russia. I’m requesting two things: 1st, to support SB 27. 2nd, given Attorney General Sessions’ ties with Flynn, is _name_ willing to willing to make a public statement insisting Sessions recuse himself from an investigation as required by the Department of Justice? (source, source, source)
I believe in creating a healthy planet for future generations.
Action 1: Protect the planet at the state level.
Call: Your governor’s office. (lookup)
Script: Hi! I’m a constituent calling from _ZIP_. I’m concerned about Scott Pruitt’s appointment to the Environmental Protection Administration. Since he will not pursue the planet’s interests, I’m asking _name_ to make a public statement about our climate crisis and support efforts in Oregon to reverse the trend. (source)
Action 2: Support a very special bumblebee.
Write: Office of the Interior, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240
Script: Use a postcard. Draw a bumblebee and add the caption: “Bees are not optional. List the rusty-patched bumblebee as endangered.” (source, source, source).
I believe in a woman’s right to safe, affordable medical care.
Stop Congress’ interference with the doctor-patient relationship.
Call: Both your senators. (lookup)
Script: Hi! I’m calling from _ZIP_ regarding HJ Resolution 43. This bill seeks to invade the doctor-patient relationship and prevent low-income women from making responsible decisions about their future. (Share personal story, if relevant). Can you tell me where _name_ stands on this important issue? (source)
I support accountability and oppose corruption.
Support legislation that prevents presidential conflicts of interest.
Call: Your three MoCs (1 representative and 2 senators) (lookup)
Script: Hi! I’m from _ZIP_ and calling about two issues related to presidential conflicts of interest. First, I support the proposed bipartisan bill that requires congressional approval of Russian sanctions. Secondly, I would like _name_to make a public statement of support for bills introduced recently in the Senate and House requiring the president to disclose and divest himself of financial conflicts of interest. Thank you.
Oppose 45’s actions that put national security at risk.
Call: Chairman, Sen Richard Burr (R-NC) DC: 202-224-3154 NC: 800-685-8916
Call: Vice Chair, Mark Warner (D-VA) DC: 202-224-2023
Script: Hi! I am calling _name_ regarding their role on the Senate Intelligence Committee. I am concerned by the president discussing classified national security information in an unsecured, open-air restaurant. Does _name_ plan to make a public statement or take corrective action on this risky behavior?
Oppose cabinet appointments that don’t represent your values.
Oppose Perry, Zinke, and Ross cabinet appointments.
Note: Ross vote is Feb 27, Zinke is March, and Perry is not scheduled.
Call: Your two senators (lookup).
Script: Hi! I’m from _ZIP_ and am calling Sen ____ to express my opposition to three cabinet appointments coming up for a vote.
The first is Rick Perry for his ties to the oil industry. (source)
The second is billionaire Wilbur Ross who has deep financial ties to Russia. (source)
And finally Ryan Zinke who supports opening public lands to energy development (source).
How does _name_ plan to vote for these appointees? Thank you (or: I’m asking _name_ to represent my views with his/her vote).
