How to Save Democracy This Week
Week of 4/11/2022
I firmly believe that democracy is an everyday activity, that the world is a better place when we all have an eye on what our government is doing at the city, state and federal level, that our power comes from our investment and attention. And that when we take action regularly, whether that’s calling our elected officials or writing letters or posting about upcoming legislation and elections, our power grows and grows.
Given that, you may be surprised to find that I wasn’t in your inboxes last week. Sometimes you just need a bit of a break. I read a lot last week (finished Ben Rhodes After the Fall which I highly recommend), watched a lot of Midsomer Murders, and did my day job. This week I’m still reading a lot (Fire from Kristin Cashore’s Graceling Realm series which I also highly recommend), and watching more Midsomer Murders, and doing my day job, but I’m also back in your inboxes.
There is so very much going on right now - attacks on democracy, on the planet, on trans and queer kids, on books and schools and science. It can all feel so deeply overwhelming, and utterly awful. And it’s unbelievably unfair. There is, of course, joy to be found here - in liberation, in celebrating our differences and telling our stories. But that’s another email. This one is about unexpected breaks and our gentle returns. In that spirit, here are a few things you can do that are low lift that still make a difference.
Recurring donations - these make a huge difference to organizations and candidates. People have a tendency to give big as we get closer to Election Day or in the wake of major events. And while all donations are useful, recurring donations that start early allow organizations and candidates to invest in deeper organizing and to budget better throughout the year.
Some ideas for organizations that could use your donations:Run for Something - one of my favorite organizations, which recruits and supports young, progressive candidates for state and local office who can make a huge difference in their communities and build a strong up and coming roster of progressives in politics
Your state Democratic party, or that of a swing state near you - this is a little controversial because not all state parties are created equal. For example, New York’s state party is a mess. But there are state parties that are much stronger and well organized, like Wisconsin Democrats, run by Ben Wikler who is an extraordinary organizer, or the Arizona Democrats which have invested in year round organizing.
Abortion funds, local organizations supporting queer youth, your local library, anywhere you make your end of the year donations - they could all use more regular commitments.
Social Media posting - this of course is not a cure all, but I’ve found that posting, on Instagram and Facebook in particular, can prompt good conversations and can inspire action amongst your friends and family. Following organizations that you support, who work on issues you care about, and then sharing their advocacy and resources is an easy way to make a difference, especially when you feel like that’s all you’ve got the energy for.
Call your state legislative officials - phone calls might not feel like a low lift, but they don’t take a lot of time and state (and local) officials don’t hear from constituents nearly as much as those elected to federal government so your phone call goes even further. You can find your elected officials here. And you can always call afterwards and leave a voicemail if it’s too anxiety inducing to talk to a person.
As always, if you have any feedback or need any help creating scripts or resources, or finding phone numbers for your elected officials, just let me know! And if you find this newsletter useful, please subscribe and share!