Action Issues

A Call To Action

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

— Martin Niemoeller

As the new Trump Administration begins its work, the actions taken send shock waves throughout America and the free world. The landscape is shifting rapidly, and in a direction that will make the world less stable, less resilient, and less beautiful. With rapidly advancing Executive Orders and changes in the rules of governance, what can Citizens do to make an impact?

First, recognize that the Constitution protects civil rights. Know what they are, and refresh your understanding of the OBLIGATIONS of citizens. Democracy is not a spectator activity, it entails engaged citizens. The first obligation is to hold those who are elected responsible and accountable for their actions. To see the founding documents of the United States of America, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, go here: https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs

Second, recognize that diversity, tolerance, equity are embedded in American values as hallmarks of our nation. Freedom of the Press and Individual rights to free speech, Freedom of Religion are critical for maintaining a democratic government for THE PEOPLE! it is your right and your obligation to practice these rights, among the others in the Bill of Rights.

Third, when an executive action makes “legal” what is inherently wrong, you have an obligation to speak out. Know your local, state and federal elected representatives. Whether you voted for them or not, they have the obligation to represent their constituents. Call them. Find out who represents you in Congress here: http://www.whoismyrepresentative.com/

Finally, you are not alone. There are many organizations who mobilize action on serious issues. Join one local to you, and get involved.

Three Things You Can Do Today to Live in Harmony with Nature:

Sign up to use 100% renewable electricity. see the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency for options in your state. http://www.dsireusa.org/
Buy local and organically grown food. Support a farmer’s market in your neighborhood and enjoy the bounty of the season.
Avoid harmful chemicals in your personal care products– Read the Labels! see the best products at http://www.safecosmetics.org/ or The Environmental Working Group
Reduce your use of plastic: drink filtered tap water from a refillable container instead of bottled water or soda http://www.marketwatch.com/story/bottled-water-overtakes-soda-as-americas-no-1-drink-why-you-should-avoid-both-2017-03-10?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo Carry a reusable bag for small purchases or groceries. Do it every time! https://eia-international.org/the-shocking-impacts-of-plastic-pollution-in-our-oceans Choose products with less plastic packaging and RECYCLE EVERYTHING SAFELY! http://www.recycling-revolution.com/recycling-benefits.html

Register to vote, and VOTE on every Election Day!

If you are registered, make sure everybody you know is also, especially young people newly eligible to vote.

In 2018, there will be local elections for Judges, Municipal Officials, state Representatives and Senators, and federal Representatives and Senators. Be sure you find out about the people who are running for office. CONSIDER RUNNING YOURSELF if you care passionately about an issue. Attend candidate debates and talk to people who are running to represent you! Local League of Women Voters events can be helpful and non-partisan in providing information.

BE SURE YOU PLAN TO VOTE in EACH ELECTION! Climate change is barely on the agenda! chemical contamination hardly rates a mention. These issues determine the fate of our planet. Select people who pledge to stand up for clean energy and safe chemicals!

Keep track of your elected officials positions on issues you care about. Hold them accountable for how they vote as they represent you!

Democracy is NOT a spectator sport. Get involved!