These are indeed dark and deeply disturbing days we’re having to witness. Faith and hope are always welcome allies, but we’ll also need non-violent action in the days to come to stem the tide of brutality and injustice that’s being foisted upon the people by the current administration. There isn’t room here to iterate the wrongs being committed.
FWIW (For What It’s Worth) I have found a great source of comfort in reading the many wonderful articles to be found in Substack.com. It’s more than people ranting and raving about what we’re up against. There are also writings that bring comfort, inspiration, and perspective. One among many is Dino Alonso. This website/application is a truly excellent model – it doesn’t cost a dime to subscribe. If/when you find an author, or you yourself wish to contribute as one, you will find a host that is more interested in disseminating ideas than making money. Blessings on you and yours!
That’s Saturday June 14th. Check your local Indivisible chapter for exact time, but they’re usually at Noon. This administration is actually openly proposing doing away with Habeas Corpus, better known as “Innocent until proven guilty”, a cornerstone of this democracy. This is in addition to doing away with “Due Process” and the constitution. Who’s next? Silence is NOT an option!
Passing along an alarming deadline that is rapidly approaching. Please read and understand why we need to contact our Senators about the “Fix Our Forests Act” that has already passed the House:
Dear Guardian, On January 23, Arkansas Representative Bruce Westerman introduced the “Fix Our Forests Act” (H.R. 471), which passed the House on a bipartisan vote, 279 – 141 (see how House members voted here). The Senate is now bypassing its normal rules to schedule a vote this very week or next, or it may move its own version. Many Democratic Senators are considering supporting the bill. The Fix Our Forests Act does little to reduce wildfire risk, which it is purported to address. Instead, the legislation is a green light to bypass critical environmental laws, restrict scientific input, and limit public engagement in how our forests are managed. The bill, if passed, would have devastating consequences for the environment and endangered species. Take Action – Call Your Senator Today! Phone number: (202) 224-3121 A U.S. Capitol Switchboard operator can connect you directly with your Senate office. Not sure who to ask for? Click here to find your Senator.
Sample Phone Script or Voicemail: Hi, I’m [Name] and I live in [Town]. I’m reaching out about the Fix Our Forests Act, which passed the House and is expected to be introduced in the Senate. Sen. _____________ should vote no on the Fix Our Forests Act. I oppose this bill because (pick any/all talking points)This legislation will open millions of acres of federal land to logging without scientific review or community input. It prohibits the courts from weighing in by limiting judicial review. This bill allows for cutting of large old trees that store massive amounts of carbon and are key for mitigating against climate change. The bill guts key pieces of the Endangered Species Act and weakens the National Environmental Policy Act. The bill does little to invest in proven wildfire mitigation measures such as defensible space, emergency planning, and home hardening. Instead it focuses on opening up federal lands to logging interests. The bill would allow harmful road construction, creating highroad densities. Roads increase the risk of human-caused fires, fragment forest habitat, and are sources of chronic sediment that harm water quality in rivers and streams. Thank you, guardian, for taking action to protect climate-critical forests.
